iPod "iPod corrupted" message after connection; 1st gen nano

[MythicFrost]

I have a 1st generation iPod nano, it's about 4.5 years old.
Every time I plug it into iTunes I get the following message:

iTunes has detected an iPod that appears to be corrupted. You may need to restore this iPod before it can be used with iTunes. You may also try disconnecting and reconnecting the iPod.

I've formatted it several times through iTunes, each time I sync it there is an issue.
Any idea's?

 

[jamin100]

google for the HP format utility (windows only)

Format the ipod with that, it may take a while

thats how i recovered a corrupted ipod classic 80GB that i brough on ebay for £10