iPod for Windows: If FireWire does not charge iPod

Symptom

• iPod doesn't charge when you connect it to your computer.
• The clock frequently needs to be reset.
• iPod doesn't shut off while connected to a Windows-compatible computer that goes to sleep.
• iPod doesn't go into Disk Mode while connected to a Windows-compatible computer that went to sleep and then awoke.

Products affected

• iPod for Windows

Solution

The FireWire (IEEE 1394) ports on some Windows-compatible computers may not be powered, and may not charge iPod when you plug it in. A port that only accepts a 4-pin cable is not powered.
6-pin FireWire port and icon

4-pin FireWire port and icon (requires separate adapter and does not charge iPod)

To determine you can charge iPod with your computer's FireWire port:

1. Connect iPod to your computer using the iPod FireWire cable. You may need to use a 4-pin to 6-pin FireWire adapter.
   
2. Check to see if iPod's battery charge indicator in the top right corner is animating. If so, iPod is charging. If not, it is not charging. You should connect iPod to the Apple iPod Power Adapter instead, especially before using it with your computer.
   

To charge iPod using the Apple iPod Power Adapter:

1. Disconnect iPod from your computer.
   
2. Connect iPod to the power adapter using the FireWire cable that came with iPod.
   
3. Plug in the power adapter to a working electrical outlet.
   

iPod will indicate when the battery is fully charged.

Tip: iPod mini and iPod (Click Wheel) can also charge while connected via a high-powered USB 2.0 port.

Related documents

93691: Tips for charging iPod and connecting to your computer
93339: iPod (with Dock Connector): How to Connect the iPod Dock Connector to FireWire and USB 2.0 Cable