Super Newbie (long post)

[Zman]

Hello all,

I have been lurking around the ipod lounge faqs, boards and news ever since I went into the Apple Store 4 weeks ago and saw the Mini... (cool toy!!) then I came home and downloaded the Itunes for windows that the folks at the store gave me and have been very impressed by itunes and am considering purchasing an ipod (15GB) for myself and a mini for my wife. Anyway, been reading alot on the site and trying to learn as much as possible from earlier threads and posts (ya, went though nearly all the 266 posts in this forum!), but still have a few questions. so thought I would introduce my self.

Basically, I am a super newb to apple products and fairly new to computers. Just bought a PC with Windows XP pro about 6 weeks ago. Not real computer savvy. Have not bought a ipod yet, mostly because I am a bit leary of the difficulties I have read about with the pc and the ipod 'not communicating' and knowing my ineptitude with computers and lack of patience with things that don't work as expected! But I am hoping to get some answers and get past that, and pick up the ipods as noted. But before chunking down that kinda cash, needed to put my mind at more ease.

So here goes my questions. please note I have been checking old posts, faqs, etc still need some clarification.

1) I understand I will have to "reformat" the ipod to windows. Is that fairly simple to do ? (I read in the review of the mini that the reviewer had a hard time...not real good news for a computer illiterate guy). Good instuctions with the ipod?

2) also, lots of posts about the computer not recognizing the ipod. why is this such a common problem? If I set up the ipod as directed carefully and as directed will I have this problem. (By the way, how are the instructions for windows that come with the ipod?)

3) I Have found itunes to be very friendly and intuitive (much better than Music Match etc with downloading songs, ripping CDs, etc. Is there any reason why I would need to use other 'music management" systems at all?

4) in the same vein, what are the programs I read about (ephpod, etc) and why do people use these at all? (other than it seems some will download songs from the ipod to the PC and itunes can't).

5) I have usb 2.0. Any reason at all to buy firewire (sounds like the Adaptec 4300 is the hands down favorite around here).

6) Another itunes question. my wife and I will definitely have have 2 different "playlists"... it sounds like when you hook up the ipod it will auto download all the songs in itunes. Is that easily adjusted to a manual select and download manually method?

7) Can itunes transfer songs and playlists from a desk top to my laptop easily?

8) there seems to be mush debate about what sounds best, but I note that I can rip my cds to itunes creating aac files or mp3 files. to this point I have used this to create mix playlists, etc and burn discs for my wifes aerobic classes. Does it matter when ripping to burn cds whether I create aac or mp3 files? how about when I finally load the files onto an ipod? how do aac and mp3 files differ to the ipod (size of file for the same song?, etc)

9)regarding the new itunes 4.5 it seems like it do different things depending on if you have a dock or not. (according to the apple site) But I don't understand what the difference is. also, people seem to be having problems with previously downloaded itunes songs downloaded with 4.0 for 4.2. Why?

10) I see in peoples sigs that they have 1G, 2G, 3G ipods. I assume these are various generations of the ipod. When I buy a new ipod will it be a 3G?

11) when I buy my new ipod, what version of itunes will be with it? does it depend on when it was sent to the store?

Wow. that is alot of stuff, again I don't mean to ask redundant questions, but the previous threads and posts still left alot of questions unanswered clearly.

thanks all for your time.

Zman.

[iPodHawk]

I've been working with computers for years, so I'm pretty comfortable in that realm, but we do have a couple of things in common. I, too, have been working with WinXP, and I started with just iTunes before actually getting my iPod (3G 20GB). I can't address all your questions, but I'll see what I can contribute. One overall point is that since everybody's hardware and software setups are just a little different, you will probably see a variance in how well user A's system works with iTunes/iPod compared to user B, and it's probably a little more likely to get a negative impression from surfing the forums since people who need help for a problem are probably more likely to post about functionality points than those for who installation went smoothly. Here goes:

1) I understand I will have to "reformat" the ipod to windows. Is that fairly simple to do ? (I read in the review of the mini that the reviewer had a hard time...not real good news for a computer illiterate guy). Good instuctions with the ipod? When you load the software that comes with the iPod, it prompts you when to connect your iPod and handles the reformatting for you. As I recall, the process walks you through pretty clearly.

2) also, lots of posts about the computer not recognizing the ipod. why is this such a common problem? If I set up the ipod as directed carefully and as directed will I have this problem. (By the way, how are the instructions for windows that come with the ipod?) I haven't had this problem since I got an Adaptec firewire card. More below.

3) I Have found itunes to be very friendly and intuitive (much better than Music Match etc with downloading songs, ripping CDs, etc. Is there any reason why I would need to use other 'music management" systems at all? It's hard to answer this question without knowing what your needs are. For basic ripping, playlist creation, and CD burning, iTunes works just fine for me.

4) in the same vein, what are the programs I read about (ephpod, etc) and why do people use these at all? (other than it seems some will download songs from the ipod to the PC and itunes can't). I haven't used any other programs. I think that some of them help with trying to do things such as transferring music from the iPod to the PC, rather than vice-versa.

5) I have usb 2.0. Any reason at all to buy firewire (sounds like the Adaptec 4300 is the hands down favorite around here). I can't comment on USB. Firewire transfers data VERY quickly. I tried a Belkin card that was noted for use with iPods, and it didn't work. Got an Adaptec as a replacement, plugged it in, and everything has worked great since.

8) there seems to be mush debate about what sounds best, but I note that I can rip my cds to itunes creating aac files or mp3 files. to this point I have used this to create mix playlists, etc and burn discs for my wifes aerobic classes. Does it matter when ripping to burn cds whether I create aac or mp3 files? how about when I finally load the files onto an ipod? how do aac and mp3 files differ to the ipod (size of file for the same song?, etc) You might want to keep searching for some of the good primers that have been posted in the forums and/or FAQs regarding this. Short version - both mp3 and aac will vary in quality depending on the bitrate used - the higher the bitrate, the better the quality, but the larger the file. Many people believe that at a similar bitrate, aac sounds better than mp3.

10) I see in peoples sigs that they have 1G, 2G, 3G ipods. I assume these are various generations of the ipod. When I buy a new ipod will it be a 3G? You're right on this one. Assuming you went out today and got a new 15GB iPod, it would be a 3rd gen model.

11) when I buy my new ipod, what version of itunes will be with it? does it depend on when it was sent to the store? It would depend on when the package was put together, which would predate the time it was sent to the store. But that's really nitpicking - your basis premise is correct.

And one more thing - be forewarned, iPods are addictive!

[davelasker]

I am a also a newbie (have 40GB iPod for 2 months) so I understand how you feel. I'll try to answer most of your questions but keep in mind I'm not an expert either.

HTH...

Dave

1) I understand I will have to "reformat" the ipod to windows. Is that fairly simple to do ?

It's done automatically when you install iPod software - in my case I had no idea it was even happening.

2) also, lots of posts about the computer not recognizing the ipod. why is this such a common problem?

In these forums you only hear about the minority with problems; in most cases everything works fine. Many recent posts concerned upgrades to iTunes 4.5/iPod 2.2 - I plan to stick with the older SW for a couple of more weeks at least.

3) I Have found itunes to be very friendly and intuitive. Is there any reason why I would need to use other 'music management" systems at all?

If you like iTunes stick with it - especially if you plan to purchase music from iTunes store.

4) in the same vein, what are the programs I read about (ephpod, etc) and why do people use these at all?

These do things that iTunes can't, such as copy music from iPod to PC.

5) I have usb 2.0. Any reason at all to buy firewire

I've tried my 40GB with both USB2.0 and firewire. Main advantage of firewire is you can charge iPod from the firewire card without using the transformer. This is only an issue with 3G ipods; the Mini can charge from USB cable. If you go with 3G, don't forget that the USB cable is not included and you must by it (or a firewire card) separately. Having used both, I'd recommend firewire.

6) Another itunes question. my wife and I will definitely have have 2 different "playlists"... it sounds like when you hook up the ipod it will auto download all the songs in itunes. Is that easily adjusted to a manual select and download manually method?

Yes you can either do auto or manual sync. With autosync you get all music on iTunes copied to your iPod, as well as your playlists.

7) Can itunes transfer songs and playlists from a desk top to my laptop easily?

Songs: yes
Playlists, ratings: no (it's possible but not easy)

8) there seems to be mush debate about what sounds best, but I note that I can rip my cds to itunes creating aac files or mp3 files. to this point I have used this to create mix playlists, etc and burn discs for my wifes aerobic classes. Does it matter when ripping to burn cds whether I create aac or mp3 files? how about when I finally load the files onto an ipod? how do aac and mp3 files differ to the ipod (size of file for the same song?, etc)

Experiment with both before you start ripping your CD's. You can't change your mind without re-ripping or losing quality. AAC is "suuposed" to better than MP3 at the same bit rate. But locking yourself into AAC means you can't download your music to another vendor's MP3 player.

9)regarding the new itunes 4.5...

I'm too chicken to try it yet....

10) When I buy a new ipod will it be a 3G?

The "big" iPod is 3G. What you buy will either be 3G or a Mini.

11) when I buy my new ipod, what version of itunes will be with it?

When I bought my 3G 2 months ago it shipped with 4.1 which I upgraded to 4.2. My friend just got his Mini which shipped with 4.2. All this is subject to change.

[arkcitykid]

Well I have only had a 20 gig ipod for about 6 weeks! and I have purchased about 350 songs from Itunes, plus I put about 2,100 of my own library on it. I bought the IPOD because I really enjoyed the I-Tunes Software (Kinda like buying a walkman because you like cassettes, not buying cassettes because you like the walkman) I shall attempt to give you some very rookie answers to your questions. I'm sure the experts will chime in and correct us all but here goes.

#1 Did not have to format my 20 gig when i brought it home. just hooked it up and wala!
(don't know about the mini, but i doubt it)
#2 It will recognize your ipod, that's the beauty of the thing. (the instructions are decent but the itunes help section has a copy of them on your computer)
#3 Well know i still use music match to record digital material from other sources, itunes won't do that! but you cannot have both open and recognizing the same file at the same time!
#4 Don't know!
#5 Yes, get the firewall card for 29.00 at best buy, i believe it is made by belkin, also get the car adapter and the extra battery pack which can run with 4 aa bateries for 12 plus hours.
#6 You set what you want downloaded on your ipods, that's why you can have 10 gig of songs on your computer hard drive and only 5 gig on your ipod. Feel Me!
#7 Yes
#8 Well now it is an apple based system, it seems that the performance would be enhanced by having a mac g4 or g5, but the xp system with mp3 technology seems to work for me just fine. But I wish I had a MAC. The IPOD works better on a MAC i here, and ITunes also.
#9 Just got 4.5 today, so don't know yet, but it seems to be more ipod friendly and playlist friendly. That New Suffle Playlist that lets you see upcomming songs is kick you know what!
#10 Don't Understand that Question, I have a 20 gig purchaced last month at Best Buy for 399.00 plus tax and an extra service plan.
#11 You will more than likely get the 4.1 and it will update automatically.

Hey Hope that helps!
the arkcitykid aka the itunes kid!

[Zman]

Thanks all for your excellent detailed answers!!! you all have been very helpful. Been away from the board for a while. (House plans are taking over my ipod research time)

I have a couple questions though. may think they are stupid, but I am the Super Newb.

1) Spent some time in the Best Buy and CC nearby and saw 2 different Adaptec 4300 packages. one for about 28 bucks (looked like only a card and nothing else). The other was in much larger packaging and sold for about 50 bucks...any idea why the differences?

2) I am kinda embarassed about this one , but on the windows 'trouble board' a person had picked up a firewire card and was looking for a driver. What is a driver? ( maybe that is the difference between the 28 and 50 dollar packaging?) and why do I need a driver?

3) If I forgo the firewire and use my usb 2.0, do I have to buy the apple usb cable? or will a standard usb cable work?

4) Still am a bit leary about all the 'my computer does not recognize the ipod stuff' on the 'trouble board', If I go by the instructions that come with the ipod and don't get impatient and rush ahead, will they get me reformatted to windows and set up ok?

thanks again for your time. your detailed help so far has been just great.

[gowolverines]

Here are some basic answers:
1) Spent some time in the Best Buy and CC nearby and saw 2 different Adaptec 4300 packages. one for about 28 bucks (looked like only a card and nothing else). The other was in much larger packaging and sold for about 50 bucks...any idea why the differences? I'm not sure on this one, but sometimes manufacturers sell OEM products that don't come with documentation or extra software. If this is the case it's up to you, but my Adaptec install was very smooth. The drivers are already in Windows XP.

2) I am kinda embarassed about this one , but on the windows 'trouble board' a person had picked up a firewire card and was looking for a driver. What is a driver? ( maybe that is the difference between the 28 and 50 dollar packaging?) and why do I need a driver? A driver is just a way for XP to talk to the hardware.

3) If I forgo the firewire and use my usb 2.0, do I have to buy the apple usb cable? or will a standard usb cable work? You will need the apple USB cable or any third party one that is made for the iPod. The reason is that there is a special proprietary connector on the iPod, so it needs a proprietary cable.

4) Still am a bit leary about all the 'my computer does not recognize the ipod stuff' on the 'trouble board', If I go by the instructions that come with the ipod and don't get impatient and rush ahead, will they get me reformatted to windows and set up ok? Things should, I say should, be alright. One of Apple's strengths is being user friendly. If you do run into issues, there is a wealth of knowledge here that covers just about any problem that could possibly occur.

[elob]

Zman,

Couldn't tell you the difference between the Adaptec packages without seeing them. All you should need is a card, though, so the cheaper one is probably the one to get. If a salesperson can't help you, though, then just jot down the model numbers and either check them on Apple's iPod site or come back here. We're pretty good with that sort of thing.

Drivers are bits of software that tell your computer how to communicate with new hardware, such as a card. Many basic drivers are built into Windows and Mac OS. If you need to install something else for the card you buy, it will come with the card.

Yes, you want the Apple cable if you're going to use USB 2.0. (Note that the iPod mini includes this cable.) That's because the cable has an iPod connector on one side. Plus, it matches! (Once you have your own iPod, you'll start to care about such things.)

Keep in mind that the only people (generally) who write to support boards are those who are having problems. As someone said to a person in your situation on another support board, it's like wandering into a hospital and being concerned to find so many sick people.

Apple's stuff pretty much always works in my experience. Charge your iPod fully before using it the first time. But then, just plug it into your computer and it will set itself up automatically before you're halfway through the instruction manuel. No need to give formatting, etc. a second thought.

elob

[mdobilas]

Let me add something to this. Once you get your Ipod home, if you're having lots of trouble or just more trouble then you want to wade through on your own. You can call apple support at their 800 number and they will walk you through any issue you might be having. They have some of the best customer support in the business.

[kgirlsbug]

Will they help you with older Ipods too?

[Moose Hunter]

Don't worry about the reformatting. I'm only 14... my dad bought me a green mini and I set it up by myself.

You should really get the 15gb and a mini. iPods are worth it.

[mad[Z]]

1) I understand I will have to "reformat" the ipod to windows. Is that fairly simple to do ? (I read in the review of the mini that the reviewer had a hard time...not real good news for a computer illiterate guy). Good instuctions with the ipod?
It will do this automatically when you start setting it up on your Windows PC.

2) also, lots of posts about the computer not recognizing the ipod. why is this such a common problem? If I set up the ipod as directed carefully and as directed will I have this problem. (By the way, how are the instructions for windows that come with the ipod?)
If your computer is relativley clean [IE not really likley to have virus], you have a working usb or firewire port, it will be fine.

3) I Have found itunes to be very friendly and intuitive (much better than Music Match etc with downloading songs, ripping CDs, etc. Is there any reason why I would need to use other 'music management" systems at all?
No. I have Windows XP Pro too, all i have ever used is iTunes.

4) in the same vein, what are the programs I read about (ephpod, etc) and why do people use these at all? (other than it seems some will download songs from the ipod to the PC and itunes can't).
Some people find it easier to use EphPod, etc. iTunes should be fine though.

5) I have usb 2.0. Any reason at all to buy firewire (sounds like the Adaptec 4300 is the hands down favorite around here).
Well the USB Cable you must buy is only a bit less then a firewire card. But you said you arent used to computers, so it might be best just to buy the USB cable.

6) Another itunes question. my wife and I will definitely have have 2 different "playlists"... it sounds like when you hook up the ipod it will auto download all the songs in itunes. Is that easily adjusted to a manual select and download manually method?
Yes, you can set it not to automatically update, etc...


7) Can itunes transfer songs and playlists from a desk top to my laptop easily?
Im not sure about this one.

8) there seems to be mush debate about what sounds best, but I note that I can rip my cds to itunes creating aac files or mp3 files. to this point I have used this to create mix playlists, etc and burn discs for my wifes aerobic classes. Does it matter when ripping to burn cds whether I create aac or mp3 files? how about when I finally load the files onto an ipod? how do aac and mp3 files differ to the ipod (size of file for the same song?, etc)
AAC and MP3 @ the same quality are pretty similar sizes. But most audiophile would say that mp3 is the preffered format over AAC.

9)regarding the new itunes 4.5 it seems like it do different things depending on if you have a dock or not. (according to the apple site) But I don't understand what the difference is. also, people seem to be having problems with previously downloaded itunes songs downloaded with 4.0 for 4.2. Why?
Its talking about the dock connecter, which is the plug at the bottom of the iPod. Its not referring to the actual dock itself.

10) I see in peoples sigs that they have 1G, 2G, 3G ipods. I assume these are various generations of the ipod. When I buy a new ipod will it be a 3G?
Yes. If you buy it from a mac store or whatever, it will be 3G.

11) when I buy my new ipod, what version of itunes will be with it? does it depend on when it was sent to the store?
Im not sure. I got mine not so long ago and it came with 4.1. You can easily update to the latest version though.

[Zman]

Hey:

thanks again for all your great detailed answers. you all have been so helpful.

So helpful that I was at best buy yesterday, 15GB in hand, but then chickened out heading to the cash register as I had two questions remaining.

I am planning on using the USB cable from Apple rather than picking up a fire wire card.

So here goes:

1) for those who have had experience using USB 2.0, have you had any problems using the USB as your connection?

2) I understand using the firewire card I can charge my ipod while I am connected to the computer. Does the Ipod come with firewire cable? And does the Ipod come with its own charger?

I think those are the only questions (for now!!).

thanks much for your help again.

Zman

[Prudence]

Me--no problems at all using USB. I have a laptop so can't really add a lot of new hardware easily.

The iPod does come with a firewire cable that can be used to connect to the computer (if you have a firewire card, either 4 or 6 pin) and it also connects to the power brick.

[Lew]

Originally posted by Prudence
The iPod does come with a firewire cable that can be used to connect to the computer (if you have a firewire card, either 4 or 6 pin) and it also connects to the power brick.

Not to hijack the thread, but a question along the same vein as I'm also considering an iPod purchase.

The USB cable for the 3G iPods looks like it splits out so you have a USB connection plus power via the firewire cable from the power brick.

But if I put a firewire card into my desktop system, the dock just connects to that and depends on the firewire port for power to charge the iPod. So if the computer is turned off, the iPod won't charge, correct? Is there some means by which to use firewire while also providing the ability to charge the iPod with the computer turned off?

Firewire certainly seems the more elegant solution if there is a way to still charge the iPod in the dock even while the computer is turned off.

Thanks.

[AndyH]

Originally posted by Lew
The USB cable for the 3G iPods looks like it splits out so you have a USB connection plus power via the firewire cable from the power brick.

This is correct.

Originally posted by Lew
But if I put a firewire card into my desktop system, the dock just connects to that and depends on the firewire port for power to charge the iPod. So if the computer is turned off, the iPod won't charge, correct?

This is correct, if the computer is off and the iPod is connected to it via FireWire (cable or dock), the iPod will not charge. In fact, some people have reported that doing this actually drains the iPod battery.

Originally posted by Lew
Is there some means by which to use firewire while also providing the ability to charge the iPod with the computer turned off?

No.