The iTunes -69 error when syncing to iPod

Some users may experience an error when syncing their iPod to iTunes coded (-69). The error reads, "Attempting to copy to the disk failed. An unknown error occurred (-69)," and can be happen on Windows or Mac systems.

This error occurs when users attempt to sync a corrupt file from iTunes to their iPod. To determine the file causing the issue, be sure to have the latest version of iTunes installed, and:

1. Connect your iPod to your system. Once connected, right-click (ctrl click) on the iPod icon in the Device list in iTunes.
2. Select "Sync Songs" from the menu and watch the progress bar at the top of iTunes as your songs transfer. The song file with the issue should be the last one displayed before the error message occurs. Simply remove that song from your synced playlist and sync again.

If you do not want to completely delete the song from your iTunes Library, but would like your iPod to sync properly, try unchecking the song in your iTunes list. Then, from your iPod's Summary Tab, check "Sync only checked songs and videos". You can also make a separate playlist that only contains songs that are able to sync to your iPod and choose to sync only that playlist.

This error can also be caused by an external drive being plugged in at the same time you attempt to sync your iPod. Try removing all external devices except your iPod and syncing again. You can also reset your iPod (by pressing the menu button and the center button until the screen goes black and the Apple logo appears) or restore your iPod (by selecting "Restore" from the iPod settings tab in iTunes).

Experiencing problems? Have feedback? Let us know!
You can now follow MacFixIt on Twitter!

Resources

Let us know!

Twitter!

More from Late-Breakers