[Ham-Computers] Re Apple Ipod MP3

[Duane Fischer, W8DBF]

Re Aaron's recommendation of the Apple Ipod MP3 stand alone unit for simplicity
- 	
	
Now I will confess, I am a serious audio devotee and listen to 'real' music, or
is it 'reel' music? (chuckle) In my case, all of the above! I use vinyl albums,
reel to reel tape, DAT, CD and even cassette. But never with a computer. 	
	
Having expressed my ignorance on this subject when it comes to a computer, I am
relying on YOU to help me out here. 	
	
If I have my 78 year young Ham buddy purchase an Apple Ipod stand alone unit,
can one of you tell me how it connects? Via serial port? 	
	
Can he download his music from the Internet web site directly into the Apple
Ipod? What is involved in doing this?	
	
Simplicity is important, as he is not a learned computer user and at his age is
not interested in becoming one either. So whatever he gets, it has to be
straightforward in operation. 	
	
His computer does have a built-in CD burner, but he has never used it. I am
reluctant to try to teach him too much, as I fear it may scare him off or
confuse him. He is already terrified of making a mistake and damaging something.
Which did happen already with his previous computer, but in all truth, I
strongly suspect it was due to the 'helpful' family members who tried to "help
old dad out" and screwed up his computer! Ha Ha.	
	
Hence, I want to do this for im myself and be sure it is simple enough that he
can learn in a hour or so of hands on with my presence to oversee what is going
on. Then I am out of there and he is happily downloading his music and enjoying
his life.	
	
So all your input here is very much appreciated.	
	
I am listening.	
	
Duane W8DBF      	
dfischer@usol.com