Tranfering files from PC to PC

[seharyda]

Please choose the appropriate forum for this topic. Thank you. I'm new to the ipod. Do I need and extra sofware if I want to use my ipod as a external harddisk to copy files from PC to PC using USB/firewire? Can the ipod be handled as a "normal" external USB harddisk? Thanks in advance //Anders

[aquatika]

Can the ipod be handled as a "normal" external USB harddisk

Yes, no problem. Just make sure that the iPod is enabled for disk use.
With your iPod connected, right click and open iPod Options. You'll find an option in there to enable disk use. Bear in mind that the iPod has to be manually disconnected if disk use is enabled.

You can transfer data/ music files to and from the iPod with no problem if you use the basic copy and paste function as per a normal hard drive.
However, If you want to transfer music that has been loaded through iTunes you'll need to read this (http://www.ipodlounge.com/articles_more.php?id=5090_0_8_0_M)

[paperfred]

Can you clarify this? Say if I want to transfer some files to my Ipod at my friend's house. He doesn't own an Ipod and thus doesn't have Itunes or Musicmatch installed on his PC.

If I simply brought along my USB cable and plugged it in, will my Ipod be recognized as a portable storage device so I can drag and drop my files? Or will I need some sort of driver? What if my friend has an Apple?

[AndyH]

Yes, no drivers needed for Mac or Windows machines. And if your iPod is currently Windows formatted, Mac's can access the iPod's hard drive too. Just make sure you enable the iPod for disk use in the iTunes preferences (iPod tab).

[paperfred]

Aha! I understand now. I have to set up the iPod for disk use on my own computer using iTunes (or Musicmatch) before I take it to my friend's PC!

Let's see now. I've just just checked the box to enable it for disk use in the iPod tab and now it appears as Drive F on my computer. I manually eject it and surprise - I can still use it to listen to music! But it's ready to be used as a portable storage device, correct? Is there any reason why I wouldn't always have that optioned checked so I can use my Ipod as a portable storage device at any impromptu moment?