I'm having problems with my iPod, conveniently now that my warranty has just expired! The thing is jammed in Disk Mode and although it's detected in windows I cannot restore the firmware or update the software. Trying to manually select properties causes a fatal system error and XP Prof to shut down! The battery icon and file with exclamation mark icon also flashes on and off. The iPod does not light either. I've tried everything. Using the fire wire and USB ports leads to the same problem.

???

Saw this after a spot of light googling...

I solved it by right clicking on the little ipod icon in my system tray and opened the iPod manager. If "Enable Disk Mode" is checked, uncheck it. This should unlock your iPod.

Or maybe this page on the Apple site might help?