When I plug my ipod into my laptop, I get the error message 'usb device not recognised', then it brings up a list of 6 ports, all named 'unknown port' with one of them bolded, called 'unknown device'. I've only got 2 usb ports and I've tried my ipod in both of them but get the same message. Can anyone shed any light on it please? Is it an error with the laptop or the ipod? THANKS, YO!

I think it's "user error". ;)

restart your Ipod, sometimes they do that.

Thanks yo, the reset thing worked!

No problem, I've only had that problem once, it might not do it again.

Three things:
1) Do your USB ports work with other devices? If not, you may need to install/upgrade your drivers for your USB ports.
2) Has it worked before and just stopped working, or is it a new device?
3) If it's never worked before, or is new, you may need to install drivers for your Ipod. You can do this by going to Apple's site IF your Ipod didnt come with the drivers already. (I know my sisters came with a mini-cd for her drivers) I would lean more towards your USB drivers needing updating, though, only because you said your computer is seeing 6 ports when you only have two. Plus your USB port's should be assigned - meaning they shouldn't be "unknown ports". BUT, if other things do work with your USB ports now, and it's just the Ipod, I would suggest getting Ipod drivers and see if that helps any.

^ listen this cat.

OR.

Set iPod on window.

Repeatedly strike with club.

haha i like that solution.

I have too (one, two, three) many bad experiences with iPod/its shit warranty to recommend anything else. =P

I mean, seriously, the warranty might as well say, "THIS WARRANTY HEREBY COVERS ALL DAMAGES, EXCEPT DAMAGES THAT DAMAGE YOUR IPOD. THAT RENDERS THE WARRANTY VOID, WHICH MANY PEOPLE AT APPLE ARE LAUGHING AT YOU PURCHASING IN THE FIRST PLACE."

Everytime I've had an ipod break apple came to my house to pick it up repaired it and returned it for free.