Nothing Happens When I Plug in My Nike + iPod

When you pair up the Nike + iPod with your iPod Nano, iPod Touch or iPhone, you can track the pace and distance of a workout, get prompts and encouragement throughout a run or aerobics session, and coordinate your exercise routine with time, distance or calorie-burning objectives. If you've installed and activated your Nike + iPod, but nothing happens when you try to use it, check your product for proper installation and condition.

  1. Sensor Battery

    • Your Nike + iPod system uses a small battery-powered sensor that installs into a special compartment under the insole of the left shoe in a pair of footwear approved for use with the system. Although the sensor's battery can power it for more than 1,000 workout hours, use, temperature and other factors can shorten its lifespan. Without a working battery, the sensor won't register on your iPod or iPhone. Your sensor will signal your iPod or iPhone when its battery life reaches the 30-hour level. If the battery fails within 12 months of purchase, you may qualify for warranty service. The sensor, not the battery, must be replaced.

    Sensor Sleep Mode

    • You can put your Nike + iPod sensor into a special sleep mode so you can store it or take it on an airplane. The sensor's Sleep/Wake button appears on top of the device. You can place it in sleep mode by pressing the button with the end of a paper clip or the tip of a pen. If you place the sensor in sleep mode, your iPod or iPhone won't recognize the device. Remove the sensor from your shoe and press the Sleep/Wake button to wake it.

    Disabled iPod Option

    • When you use the Nike + iPod kit with a fifth-generation iPod Nano or earlier, you must plug the Nike + iPod receiver into the dock connector on the bottom edge of your iPod. If your receiver doesn't register on your iPod, check your Extras menu for the Nike + iPod option. If you find it in the Extras menu but not in the main About menu, go to the Settings menu, enter the General option and choose "Main Menu" to find the Nike + iPod listing. Press the center button on your iPod to enable the Nike + iPod kit.

    Dirty Receiver Connector

    • When you plug the receiver into the dock connector on a fifth-generation or earlier iPod Nano, the connectors must mate correctly for your iPod to recognize the device. Dirt and dust, moisture, lint or any other debris on either connector can prevent the two from making full contact. For example, if you carry your iPod Nano in a sweatshirt pocket without the receiver plugged in, the fabric can shed just enough to leave a residue behind. Brush out the connectors and plug the receiver back into your iPod.