PC's and syncing with iPad

[Kyray]

I am so glad I found this forum. I definitely need help as I transition through the learning curve with my new iPad2. I have used pc's since day 1 and I want to become proficient with my iPad as well. Initially, I have two questions:
1. The Pc that I have set up to sync iTunes, iPod and my iPad is aging and no longer functioning properly for this purpose. I would like to start using my laptop for this purpose. How do I switch over?

2. I get a message that says I have the maximum of 5 computers linked to iTunes. I don't currently have 5 computers. How can I edit the list to include only current ones?

Thank you for your help. I'm sure I will be back with more.

Ray

 

[twerppoet]

Here is Apple's recommendations on how to transfer all your stuff to a new iPhone. With a few modifications it works very well for moving your iPad to a new computer. Wish I could find one as well written for the actual task.

How to back up your data and set up as a new device

Start by going into iTunes Preferences (before connecting the iPad) and turning off auto-sync. It is under the Devices tab. This will prevent any unwanted syncing before you are ready.

Do only the parts that apply to your information/situation (i.e.; if you are syncing contacts with Google, don't do the Personal Information Manager part. Stop when you get to the Restore step.

It would be wise, after the Transfer Purchases option to go through iTunes and make sure everything (media, app, book) got transferred. If not you may have a few more steps to insure all your stuff gets safely backed up on the computer.

NOTE: If you have picture albums in the Photos app, and they are not backed up somewhere other than the iPad, you need to save them first before doing anything else. The first sync will remove them. The PhotoSync app works well for this, and you can use it before starting any of the other procedures.

The quality of the pictures recovered this way will probably not match the originals. iTunes optimizes photos for viewing on the iPad when it syncs them.



To reset the iTunes authorizations for you computers:

Open iTunes go to the iTunes store (on the computer).

Select your Apple ID at the top right and sign in to view your Account information.

On the first page, in the fist section, you will see the number of authorized computers, and if it is maxed out at 5, the option to Deauthorize All. Choose this.

Choose Done.

Now go to the Store menu in iTunes and choose Authorize Computer. This will re-authorize your current machine. If you have other computers that need to be authorized you will have to do this on them as well.

When you decide you are no longer going to use a computer with iTunes, you should go into the Store menu and Deauthorize. It's pain to remember, but if you are going to switch computers a lot best to do so. The Deauthorize All option can only be used once in 12 months.