laptop with usb 2.0 charge question

[deftdrummer1]

Hi all, I am sure this has been answered somewhere in the depths of this vast forum, but alas I could not find it so here goes;

I have a ipod color 20gb and my newer laptop with usb 2.0. My problem is that the ipod will only charge when "connected" to the computer and flashing "do not disconnect" When I unmount the ipod from the computer the charging indicator goes away. Since charging while the hard drive is spinning causes excess wear on the hard drive, is there any way to keep the ipod charging while unmounted and connected, or is this some sort of qwerk? by the way i have firmware1.2.1

Thanks for the help!