How To Fix Your Broken Ipod

There are basically two types of iPod malfunctions; hardware based and software based. Identifying which your iPod is suffering from can sometimes be a complicated task but there are a few things you can look for.

Hardware problems are most commonly due to a hard drive failure. Just as with a computer the hard drive inside the iPod is very delicate and being constantly shaken the connectors inside can come loose. The most common tell of an iPod hard drive malfunction is a clicking sound, or a high pitched spinning sound. If your iPod is showing these symptoms there isn't much that can be done besides replacing the hard drive. Replacing an iPod hard drive can be a very delicate task which I highly advise you against attempting. Taking apart the iPod can result in short circuiting the main board or breaking the delicate connectors. In any case for the price of an iPod hard drive you can get yourself a second hand iPod and save yourself the hassle.

The other common iPod hardware malfunction is due to water damage. If your iPod was exposed to water whether it was the rain or it was dropped in the toilet the chances of survival are minimal. The first thing you should do is put it on a dry towel and leave it in a warm area for at least 48 hours. If after 48 hours your iPod still does not turn on it is beyond repairable. Water damage is not covered under warranty either, so again your best option will simply be to purchase a new iPod or get a used one on eBay.

Software errors are most commonly identified by a warning error on the iPod screen preventing you from successfully starting the iPod. If you iPod constantly resets itself it can also be a sign of a software malfunction.

The first thing you should try is to reset the iPod. Turn the 'hold' switch on and off and then hold the play and menu buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds. You will see the Apple logo signifying the iPod is resetting itself. If the warning sign is still there you can attempt a factory reset.

The factory reset will erase everything on the iPod and attempt to restore the factory settings. To do this you must connect your iPod to the computer and open iTunes. Click on the iPod logo and look for the option 'restore'. The process can take a few minutes.

If a factory restore does not fix your iPod, it is probably due to a hardware failure. Determining what type of error can be complicated and would require opening the iPod. If it is under warranty take it to a certified Apple technician, if not once again consider buying a new iPod.

Reference:Phil Tremblav