How to Move Files From an iPod to a Computer

Introduction
iPods are extremely popular MP3 players. They are well known for their easy and low maintenance file storage capabilities. Moving files from an iPod to a computer, however, is a different matter altogether. With earlier generations of iPods, transporting files off of the device to another location is an action that has been met with difficulty. Follow these steps to move files from an iPod to a computer.
Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Steps

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Step One
Connect your iPod to your computer. To do this, use the same cord that you would use when writing files to your iPod. The cord needed for this step depends largely on the generation of iPod you own. Earlier models utilized a special FireWire cord, while later generations have incorporated USB and more widely compatible connection formats.

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Step Two
Locate the “Control Panel.” On your computer’s “Start” menu, find the “Control Panel” and open it. In the Control Panel screen double click on the icon for “Portable Media Devices.” This will open a screen that will allow you to access your iPod. Double click the icon for your iPod.

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Step Three
Locate the “Tools” menu. Once you have double clicked on your iPod’s icon, click on the word “Tools” at the top of the screen. A list of options will appear. Click on the words “Show Hidden Files.” This should make the files on your iPod’s hard drive appear.

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Step Four
Find your music. In the midst of all of the files and folders that have appeared on your screen, you will eventually find the location of your stored music files. To find these files click on the folder for “iPod Control,” and once inside, click on the folder labeled “Music.”

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Step Five
“Copy” and “Paste.” Now that you have found your stored music files, you can simply copy and paste them into any folder that you wish on your computer’s hard drive. If you are unable to access the copy function, simply highlight the music you wish to transfer and drag it into another folder.

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Step Six
Install iTunes. The music files that you transfer from your iPod to your PC will usually be irritatingly unorganized. You will need to have iTunes installed on your PC to easily organize them back into the same format you had on your iPod.

Overall Tips & Warnings
If you have not yet purchased your iPod, make sure that you get a newer model. The first generations had many complications ranging from suspiciously erratic battery life to poor connectivity/compatibility.
If you have a choice between FireWire and USB, go with USB. USB is much more compatible with any form of PC, laptop, Pocket PC and handheld device.
The ability to copy and past entire libraries of music files is yet another opportunity for people to partake in illegal sharing of copyrighted materials. This is a form of piracy and remains illegal in the United States.
by eHow Electronics Editor
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