Backing up files on Ipod to PC and migration to new software.

Hey Bill, this is really simple. And MC9 can help you do it.

OK. I'll outline the process. First, we're going to copy the files off of the iPod directly in My Computer/Explorer, then we'll import those songs into MC9, then we'll use some of MC9s features to rename them based on their tags. This will organize them for you.

All right, ready?

1. Connect the iPod. Open up My Computer/Explorer. Make sure you have viewing of hidden files enabled (it's under Tools>Folder Options on the View tab).

2. Open up the iPod_control folder. You'll see a folder called Music in there. That's got all your tunes in it. Copy that folder to your new HDD. Stick it anywhere.

3. OK, once that's done you'll have your tunes on the new HDD. Next, open up MC9. Click on the Import Media toolbar (or File>Library>Import Media). Navigate to the Music folder you created and import all the tunes from that folder.

4. You'll now see all the tunes in MC9. We have another step. The music folder actually has 20 folders in it, F00-F19. The iPod stores tunes in these folders randomly and depending on the program you used to upload to the iPod originally, they are probably named w/random file names. Now we want to use MC9 to organize your files on your new HDD and rename them so they follow a naming convention. It's not necessary, but if your anal about your music collection it's good to do. ;)

5. So, to begin the renaming process, first you need to make sure your tunes are tagged correctly. Go through each Artist/Album etc. in MC9 and make sure the properties are what you want for each song. You want to pay attention to Artist, Album, Track# and Track name. Genre and the other stuff can wait until later if you wish. Oh, if you don't see the Properties window, highlight any song in MC9, right-click and select Properties. It'll be on the left.

6. OK, so once all your tunes have the right properties (tags), we're ready to rename them. Hightlight a bunch of tunes, do them in batches of < 500 or so. Right click and select Library Tools>Rename Files From Properties.

7. A dialog box will come up. Select your "Base Directory" where you're going to store your tunes on your new HDD, like a folder called "My Music". Select your Directory rule (like "Artist/Album"), there are a number of presets available or you can create your own. Select your file naming convention (like "Artist - Album - Track# - Track Name). Click OK.

8. When it's done renaming (essentially moving) the files, it's will let you know if the operation left any empty folders and prompt you if you want to delete them. You can if you wish.

9. Repeat this process until you've moved everything into your new folder structure.

Then, you can access the iPod from MC9, you'll be prompted to reformat, go ahead and do it (since you've moved your tunes). Create some smartlists and get to syncing! :D

Hope that helps.

Adam

Way to go Bill, glad it all worked out. :D

Adam