As usual, I searched Google using phrases like "iPOD not recognized" and found hundreds of matching pages. Most of them had solutions involving re-installing ipod updater, itunes, and disabling/enabling high-speed USB ports. The one solution that actually worked can be found here: http://www.mcse.ms/archive61-2005-12-2044620.html
Not only did this fix the problem quickly and simply, but I learned how to do a soft-reset of a Nano. Thanks Ben!
Author
ipod usb device not recognized
ben.truitt@gmail.com
2005-12-25, 1:14 am
Hi all -This is a message to provide helpful information we were unable tofind. When we got our new ipod Nano and plugged it in to our HP laptopwith Windows XP, we got a message saying "usb device not recognized."After much frustration, we figured out the fix: reset the device. Todo this, toggle the hold switch (set to hold, then flip back), thenpress the menu and middle buttons at the same time for 6 seconds untilthe apple logo appears. Now plug it in to the computer again. Thisfixed our problem.Good luck, and enjoy your "easy to use" ipod. :)-Ben