i am unable to update my ipad mini to the new IOS8,

Hi you need to give more information of why you can't update your software What happens when you go to Software update on iPad Cheers Brian

Lacking any specific information, I'll just give you general information for backing up your data and resetting your iPad to its factory default condition, which isn't a bad idea for anyone, no matter what they are doing or what problems they may have - or not have. The first links are for backups and their information. Do an iTunes backup, as it's more complete. Then the last link is for using your iTunes program to do the factory default reset.