Actually Firewire seems to be the number one issue with people on Windows and iPods. My motherboard has a built-in Firewire adapter as does my soundcard. Different chipsets, etc. Both certified to work with Windows, both work with DV cameras and external Firewire hard drives. The motherboard-based Firewire implementation didn't get on to the iPod to the extend that the iPod was so thoroughly locked up it had to be left overnight to discharge. The soundcard's Firewire interface worked but apparently data was being corrupted during transfer since transfers hung and music skipped on the iPod. Check out
www.ipodlounge.com for lots of Firewire woes.
The reasons I blame the iPod's implementation are that multiple Firewire hardware (all of which is certified with Windows) has issues with the iPod and that said Firewire hardware works with other devices.
I suppose the solution is to get a Mac
