Question : Problem: How do I switch my iPod from a MAC to a PC?

I just recently bought a HP Pavilion dv3510nr, running Windows Vista 64-Bit Operating System.  I have been using an iBook G4  (Tiger OS) to download music from iTunes and download from CD to my 60GB video iPod.  I am planning to get rid of the iBook and would like to have my iPod sync with my new HP laptop.  How do I make the switch and not lose any of the purchased or CD burned songs?  I believe I'll have to reformat the iPod but am concerned I'll lose $$$ by losing my purchased music, primarily.

I know there is some software which allows the transfer of MAC formatted iPod files to a PC, but I believe it only works on 32 bit Vista machines.  Please advise.

Answer : Problem: How do I switch my iPod from a MAC to a PC?

First make sure you have iTunes authorized to your itunes account (menu bar, Store , authorize computer).

You'll have to restore your iPod to even get it readable by the PC. If you still have access to your iBook you can backup your itunes library and transfer it over to the PC. via these instructions : http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1751

Most 32bit windows application will run under 64bit windows (the exception are software that require hardware interaction), most of the applications that would run are still in 64bit so it would be very impractical to expect windows to only run 64bit (OS X leopard is exactly the same, mostly 32bit applications, but can support 64bit).

The alternative is using something like CopyTrans : http://www.ipodtouchanswers.com/touch-life/win-copytrans-3/ , but you'd need your iPod to be visible to the computer first, so you may need to get something to allow viewing Mac drives... one solution is MacDrive http://www.mediafour.com/products/macdrive/ which is 64-bit capable (it would have to be in order to install a driver for mac partitions) then use CopyTrans on the new drive letter to get all your stuff off. I believe the free trial linked should be able to do it.

Once you got it all back onto the new itunes you can restore your ipod as a windows formated one.