Yes, I am now an iPod convert, after having trashed the iPod both verbally and in print for many years.

And now that I am a devotee, I have acquired a bit of knowledge as to the care and feeding of this inorganic pet.

Recent problem: The "hold" switch was not working. This is a drag because the device needs only a light touch to turn on, so if something touches it while it is stored it may turn on and deplete the battery.

Solution: Reset the iPod. (This will not erase any files or settings.) Do this by powering on the device with the hold switch off, then pressing "Menu" and the middle "select" button simultaneously until you see the Apple logo appear.

The Apple logo will appear as a gigantic luminous holographic haze, taking up most of your field of vision. . .

OOPS no that was a dream I had last night--

Correction, the Apple logo will appear on the screen of the device.

Your iPod is now reset. There is one more thing you need to do: when powering off the device, wait ten seconds before putting the hold switch on.

The hold switch should now work.

The testing device was an iPod 8GB Nano. The old square one, not the new one.

If resetting your device does not solve your problem, you may have to return it to Apple for repair. I understand the turnaround time is short. In the meantime I guess you'll have to amuse yourself by playing with ringtones.

Tra la la!