itunes not recognizing my ipod, need some technical help

[easiegel]

I hope someone can lend me some expertise because my work computer will not recognize my ipod and I can't go any longer without it. I have the newest ipod updated (i have a 20gb 3rd generation), the newest version of itunes. When I plug in my ipod to my laptop (thinkpad t43 with xp) windows recognized the ipod in my computer, but itunes won't. My ipod just keeps saying do not disconnect. I have repaired and reinstalled itunes numerous times, I am lost at this point.

Also, I just bought the new logitech speaker. When my ipod is plugged into it and on shuffle, every third or 4th song I seek to, the device freezes for about 10 seconds and then goes, is this normal?

Thanks

[easiegel]

so I forgot to add that when i disconnect the usb cord, I get a message saying your ipod needs to be formatted for your pc to be recogized. Using ipod updateder, it says I need to restore my ipod, but then I will lose all my music, any suggestions?