Fifth Generation iPod has a blank backlit display and beeps 3 times

Symptom

• Unit may make a series of short beeps on startup
• Unit may boot to a blank white (backlit) display
• Unit may boot to a blank dark display

Resolution

1. Download and install iTunes 7.0 or later.
2. Open iTunes.
3. Connect your iPod to the computer via the iPod USB cable.
4. The iPod will make a series of beeps and the display will light up with no image. If the iPod only beeps but the display does not light up, leave the iPod connected until the display lights up. This may take up to 15 minutes while the iPod charges.
5. Reset the iPod by pressing the Menu and Center buttons for up to 10 seconds and release the buttons when you hear the beeps.
6. Immediately after releasing the Menu and Center buttons, press and hold the Center and Play/Pause buttons for 5 seconds the release the buttons.
7. The iPod should be visible in the iTunes Source pane. Select the iPod and Restore it from the Summary tab.
8. If the iPod is not recognized in iTunes, retry steps 1-7.
9. If you are still unsuccessful you can visit the Genius Bar at a local Apple Retail Store. Reference this knowledge base document number (303545) during your visit.
10. Alternately, eligible iPods can be sent to Apple for recovery by visiting http://depot.info.apple.com/ipod/