How to Fix a Sansa MP3 Player
- 1). Make sure the device is completely charged before starting any troubleshooting. Sometimes the Sansa device may be so drained of its battery life it will not function at all. Make sure the device is at least 50 percent charged when upgrading the firmware or formatting the device.
- 2). Perform any firmware updates on the Sansa device. Firmware is the operating system of the device. Sometimes it may become outdated and cause malfunctions to the player. Access Sansa's website and navigate to "Support." Locate your specific model of your Sansa device. Click on firmware update under "Downloads" and make sure the Sansa is connected to your computer via USB.
- 3). Format the Sansa device. There may be a corrupt file that can cause issues with the Sansa, and it may need to be formatted. Back up all content before formatting if possible as this will erase all data from device. If your Sansa device requires a SD card you can format it as well.
- 4). Connect the device to your computer and access the "Start" menu, "My computer," and locate the Sansa device which will appear to be an external hard drive. Right-click on the device with your mouse and select "Format." If the format option is not available, right click and select "Properties" and then access the option to "Format." Except any warnings that may populate informing you that you are about to format the device. Click "Format."
- 5). Reset the device, if possible. Some Sansa devices have a reset function that will either reset the device to factory settings or will temporarily clear any issues that are causing the device to freeze. Press the reset button using a pointed object like a straightened paper clip. The reset button may be located on the side or back of the device and it will be a small button that is recessed. Keep the button pressed and held until the display turns off and turns back on or the lights flash.
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