My iPod mini won't connect to my computer or iTunes... but it use to

My iPod mini won't connect to my Windows XP computer or show up on iTunes. When I plug the iPod into the computer the lightning symbol appears in the corner to show that it is charging, but no "do not disconnect" message. A month ago and before that the iPod would connect just fine anytime I plugged it in. About 2 weeks ago it started connecting only certain times, then other times it wouldn't connect at all, with no pattern. Starting about last week, it won't connect. I tried resetting it by pressing the Menu button while also holding down the center button, but that did not work either. I went on the support page, but I couldn't find anything about the iPod Mini. If anyone could help me, it would be great! Oh, one more thing, instead of connecting through USB cord, the cord I received with my iPod mini is Firewire. Thanks!