This document applies to the original iPod for Windows that used the MUSICMATCH Jukebox software and was compatible with Windows ME. If you have Windows XP or Windows 2000 or a Mac, click here.
Background
First, it is important to understand the difference between "update" and "restore."
"Update" simply updates the software that controls iPod and may also update the firmware for the hard drive. Update does not affect the songs and files stored on iPod's hard disk.
"Restore" erases the hard disk and restores iPod to its original factory condition. Because Restore erases all of the songs and files on the hard disk, make sure to back up your songs and files first.
For instructions on how to update iPod, see "How to update iPod with Windows ME".
About the iPod Software Updater application
You use the iPod Software Updater application to update or restore your iPod. You can download it from the iPod Download page. From time to time Apple expects to release versions of this application that have newer versions of iPod software. These later versions may include new functions or improvements to existing features.
You can easily find out which software version your iPod has.
How to restore iPod for Windows ME
This procedure assumes that the iPod preferences are in their default condition, which means MUSICMATCH Jukebox automatically opens whenever you connect iPod to your computer.
Warning: The restore process cannot be undone. All of your songs and files will be deleted. Always make a backup of your important data.
- Connect iPod to your computer using the cable that came with iPod. MUSICMATCH Jukebox opens, and if necessary updates iPod with your music library and playlists. The MUSICMATCH Jukebox display tells you when the music update is complete.
- Quit MUSICMATCH Jukebox.
- Open the Updater application. Click the Start button, point to All Programs, then point to iPod, and click Updater.
- Click Restore. A progress bar appears.
- If you have iPod 2.0 software or later and iPod is connected to AC power, skip to Step 9.
- When the factory settings have been restored, a message appears on the Updater asking you to unplug the cable from iPod.
- When prompted by iPod, reconnect the cable. iPod will load the iPod software. This will take about a minute. When iPod has finished loading, the iPod Software Updater's progress bar will be completely filled.
- Click the close box in the iPod Software Updater to quit the Updater application. MUSICMATCH Jukebox automatically opens.
- In the MUSICMATCH Jukebox Device Setup window, type a name for iPod in the space provided. The "Complete library synchronization" and "Automatically Synchronize on Device Connection" options are selected by default.
- Click OK. A dialog box appears asking if you want to synchronize iPod with the library from this computer.
- Click Yes. The download status appears in the MUSICMATCH Jukebox display.
- Wait until the MUSICMATCH Jukebox display says it is safe to disconnect iPod.
- Quit MUSICMATCH Jukebox.
- iPod should display the "OK to disconnect message". If not, click the iPod Watcher icon in the system tray and choose Unmount.
- Disconnect the cable from iPod. After a few moments, the Language display appears on iPod's screen.
- Select a language.
iPod has been restored to factory settings and updated with the music and playlists in your MUSICMATCH Jukebox music library.