30GB Zune > Vista Connection Problems

[Devolver]

I recently received a brown 30GB Zune for Christmas from the woman, and I'm having a hell of a time getting it connected.

When I plug it into my computer (Compaq Presario F700, Vista 32 Premium/SP1), it makes the successful sound. Once it tries to install itself, it fails. It's unable to find anything to install (drivers, programs, what-have-you). Also the "Search online for a solution" comes up with nothing.

I can install the Zune program interface from the site independently, but the Zune isn't recognized through it either. From the Device Manager, it shows that it was installed unsuccessful, and after an uninstall, it still wont do anything.

I don't think its the Zune more than it is a compatibility issue, because when plugged in, the Zune 'wakes up' and starts charging. Also it gets the 'Connecting' screen when plugged into the 360.

Anybody know of a workaround for this? I've googled for hours with no avail.

[kuronosan]

You need to install the zune software before you connect the Zune or it won't work.

Also, the USB port it's on weighs heavily on it. If it's a non-hardline port (such as an external hub) expect to have problems.

edit: Nevermind, just re-read... try a different USB port... Zune has a 99% compatibility with all computers using windows.

[Devolver]

Yeah, I've tried the different ports, same results. Apparently there was a program update thats been causing alot of issues to older gen Zunes.

Doing a clean install of the firmware on the Zune, to see if that works. But now I can't seem to get the program reinstalled.... ugh(stuck on the 'searching for updates'). This is very troublesome.

Edit: When installing, it'll give the "If you have an install disk, insert it now" command, which it didn't come with. Then returns with the failed message.

[kuronosan]

I have a first generation Zune and it's worked on all of my machines so far.

You said you're getting the error message when it plugs in and goes to detect it or when it installs?

Unplug the USB cradle and everything to do with it, reboot the computer in safe mode, uninstall the zune software completely.

Then reinstall the Zune software and when it prompts you to plug in the Zune, plug in the cradle and then the Zune. When it says "Found Hardware" ignore the window and don't do anything.

See what that does.

[Devolver]

You said you're getting the error message when it plugs in and goes to detect it or when it installs?

When I plug the device in, it will begin trying to install it. But after a bit, it will come back with a "Unable to install" message. No error code or anything of that sort.

Also. On a very bad note. When I wiped the firmware to reinstall it, the Zune application isn't recognizing the Zune. But I'll try the safe mode uninstall to see if that opens something up.

[Devolver]

How odd. I found the issue.

A while back when trying to play FFXI on the ole lappy here, I downloaded a lib.usb app so I could use my PS3 controller on the PC.

And apparently that was causing some communication issues between the device and my PC. *The more you know* I suppose.

The help is much appreciated.