This is a suggestion based on my player. Once you plug it into the USB port using the cable supplied, you have to tun it on using a mechanical switch on the side. If this works, the sreen will light up and the player will appear in "my Computer" You can then upload your mp3 files to the player. If you unplug it, it will likely stop because the battery does not charge whilst used in this mode. To charge the battery you need to turn off the player. Do not use the switch on the side. Instead hold down the play button untill you get the Bye-Bye message. It will now turn off and begin charging its battery.