This is not the case however; ITunes is a free program needed to successfully operate your IPod; but first, it must be downloaded from the Apple website (http://www.apple.com/itunes/).

Anybody can download ITunes to their computer and use it as resource for organising, browsing, playing and purchasing music or video; making searching through piles of CD’s for one that’s not scratched: a thing of the past.

The good thing about digital files is they can be stored on a hard drive, don’t take up a lot of physical space, and can be played continuously, without wearing them out; time and continuous use doesn’t reduce the quality.

Once installed on your computer, ITunes allows you transfer music between computer and IPod; it’s just a matter of using the “drag and drop” method.

The menu on the left hand side displays your stored music, ITunes Store and any attached IPods; as you click on the menu items, a list of music stored in that location will be displayed on the right.

To move music between devices you simply browse to the music files you want using the left hand menu; then drag and drop them from the right hand side to the device displayed on the left.

Sound confusing: ITunes has a tutorial available for first time users or those who want more from their software (http://www.apple.com/itunes/tuto rials/).

Using ITunes with your IPod also gives you the ability to setup playlists and synchronize music between the two; instead of manually transferring any newly obtained music: you can set the IPod to synchronize when connected to your computer.

Purchasing music and video is also made easier via the ITunes Store; after creating an account you are able to purchase and download anything from the store using either your credit card, or by purchasing an ITunes Gift Card from a local store (similar to mobile phone credit except you are purchasing music credit).