iPod Gen2 (Model 1019) Disk Mode Shows "Safe to Disconnect" only

I have a 2nd Generation iPod (Model A1019) with Click-Wheel - "About" shows Version 1.5 Windows format. The iPod works fine, over 4,000 songs play flawlessly. The only issue would be short battery life which is an easy fix.



However, when I try to enter Disk Mode to create Playlists and add more music, the iPod's screen will only display "Safe to Disconnect". Connecting the iPod to a Windows PC (tried new firewire cable as well as didfferent firewire card on systems with Windows 98, Windows XP, and Windows Vista). I also put the iPod in Diagnostic Mode and passed all tests (some sites show a Disk Mode option in the Diagnostic Menu but my iPod does not have this option).



The firewire cards work with other firewire devices and the cables I've tried work fine (tried both 6 and 4 contacts). The iPod charges okay when using 6-contact firewire cable.



I've spent several weeks scouring Google for a solution as well as searching the iLounge forums. I've seen this has been an issue since 2004 but have not found any solutions. I am hoping soemone else has faced this issue and can offer a solution. Thanks.

via iLounge Forums http://ift.tt/1ihgbUE