Each iPod is tied to one iTunes and library and one computer for syncing and iTunes doesn't allow you to copy your iPod library to another computer. Sometimes, however, you need this feature. Three of the most common reasons to copy iPod libraries are:
- You just bought a new computer and want a quick way to move all your music to the new machine (the alternative is re-ripping every CD!).
- Your hard drive crashed, taking all your iTunes data with it, but your iPod still has a copy.
- You want to make an iPod backup and save it on another computer.
You might also want to copy iPod libraries to share music with friends, though the legality of this is still somewhat in dispute.
There are a number of programs that offer these features. CopyTrans, a US$20 program, is one of them. This is a step-by-step guide to using CopyTrans (formerly known as CopyPod) to copy iPods to PCs, backup iPods, or transfer an iPod library to a new PC.
To start, you'll need a copy of CopyTrans. You can download a free trial, and purchase a fully licensed copy, at http://www.copytrans.net/copytrans.php. It requires Windows.
Once this is done, install the software.
