Here are solutions to some common problems with your Zune player.
My computer doesn't recognize my Zune when I plug it in to a USB port.
If your sync cable is plugged in to a port on an external USB hub, try plugging it in to a built-in USB port on the back of your computer.
If your sync cable is plugged in to a USB port on the front of your computer, try using a USB port on the back of your computer.
You can also try restarting your Zune.
Lastly, try rebooting your computer, restarting Zune software, and then reconnecting your Zune.
My Zune doesn't turn on when I plug it in to my computer for the first time.
The battery in your Zune may need to be charged. For information about charging the battery, see Battery FAQ.
I'm trying to set up my Zune, and the Zune software asks if I want to connect as a guest.
While rare, the Zune software may mistakenly identify your Zune as linked to another computer, even though the player is new. This can also happen if you completely remove and then reinstall Zune software.
For solutions, see Sync Your Zune to Another Computer.
My Zune doesn't respond when I press the buttons, or it has a black screen.
Try one or more of these solutions to resolve this problem:
- The Zune may be locked. Move the hold switch to the unlocked position. It may help to move the switch back and forth. Then press the play/pause button for a second.
- The battery may be drained. See Battery FAQ.
- Restart your Zune.
How do I keep my Zune updated?
When you connect your Zune to your computer while Zune software is running, it automatically checks for updates and lets you know if you need to update. You can manually check for Zune updates anytime.
Which Zune update do I have?
You can see this information on your Zune. See Get Info About Your Zune.
Your Zune won't turn on until you charge it for a little while. Connect your Zune to your computer's USB port or the Zune AC Adapter (sold separately) for 13 to 30 minutes and try again. For more about charging your Zune, see Battery FAQ.
Also, make sure the hold switch is not locked. It may help to move the hold switch back and forth.
How much storage space is available on my Zune?
You can see this information on your Zune. See Get Info About Your Zune.
My new Zune displays "5 Contact Support".
You might be able to fix this issue by restarting or restoring your Zune device. If that doesn't work, contact Zune customer support.
My new Zune displays "To start, visit www.zune.net/setup".
Your Zune needs to be updated. First, install the new Zune software on your computer from the Zune.net Web site. Then connect your player to your computer.
If Zune software does not automatically tell you to update, update your player manually.
My Zune displays "Use the Zune software settings on your computer to set up wireless sync."
You need to set up wireless sync using Zune software. See The Art of Wireless Syncing. If you've gone through the wireless sync wizard and are still having problems, see Troubleshoot Wireless Sync.
My Zune is displaying a language I don't understand.
Your Zune can display three languages. Just change the language setting on your Zune.
- Select (settings, or parametres, or configuracion).
- Select (language, or langue, or idioma).
- Select the language you want the Zune to use.
How can I restore the content that came preloaded on my Zune?
If you've deleted content that was preloaded on your Zune 4, Zune 8, or Zune 80, you can download it from Zune.net, add it to your collection, and re-sync it to your Zune.
Restore preloaded content to your Zune
- Make sure you have at least 450 MB free storage space.
- Right-click here, select Save Target As, and choose a folder in which to download the compressed WinZip file.
- Double-click the downloaded file to open it.
- Copy or move each of the main subfolders—Pictures, Podcasts, Videos, and Zune Gems (music)—to a folder that the Zune software monitors for each media format, adding the Pictures folder to a monitored folder for pictures, and so on.
To view or update your monitored folders, go to the Zune software's collection settings.
- Connect your Zune and sync your new content.
