Problems with itunes backup for ipad air 1 (using mac)

I'm having problems trying to back up my iPad air on iTunes on my laptop. It took really long, them suddenly the backup process stopped because apparently my ipad was disconnected from the laptop, which was ridiculous seeing as the ipad was still connected. It happens a few more times and I'm wondering whether the problem lies with my laptop, or my ipad, or the iTunes itself, or even the new iOS. Hope someone could help me out.