How to Convert an iPod from Mac to Windows without losing the songs?

The iPod's hard drive is formatted differently from iTunes, depending on the operating system on which it is being used. So an iPod formatted on a Mac, is only compatible with Macs and an iPod formatted on a Windows computer will be compatible with other Windows computers only. You can convert your iPod from Mac to Windows, but this process will erase all files and thus you will lose your music. You can use several methods to keep your music library and tranferí it to Windows.

Part 1: Transfer each your music library from a Mac to a Windows computer

1. Open iTunes on your Mac

2. Select "File", "Library" and "Back up disc".

3. Select "Backup Entire iTunes library and playlists" and click "Back up".

4. Insert a blank DVD and iTunes will begin recording the album. When disk capacity is reached, the computer will eject the DVD and iTunes will prompt you to insert another blank disc. This process will repeat until all your library is recorded. Naming the disks in sequential order is a great idea (something like iTunes Backup 1, Backup iTunes 2, etc..).

5. Open iTunes on your Windows computer.

6. Insert the first disk backup.

7. Select "Restore" when iTunes asks if you want to restore your library from backup disks. The program will copy all files on the disc, asking you to insert the next disc in the sequence when the copying process is complete, until all the data from each disk are copied to your Windows computer.

Transfer each music library from a Mac-formatted iPod to a Windows computer

1. Download and install a free copy of XPlay 3 (see further reading), a software that lets you copy songs directly from your iPod to your computer.

2. Connect your iPod to your computer via the USB cable Windows.

3. Double-click "My Computer."

4. Double-click the iPod icon.

5. Select "Tools" and then "Folder Options."

6. Select the tab "View".

7. Select "Show hidden files and folders" under "Advanced Settings", and then click OK.

8. Double-click the file "iPod Control".

9. Select the file "Music" and drag it to your desktop or any other folder using Windows Explorer to copy your music library to your computer. When the copy process is complete, proceed to the next step.

10. Click the right mouse button in the "Music" you just copy and select "Properties."

11. Remove selection "Hidden" and click OK.