Startup with iPod plugged in

when my iPod (30GB) is plugged into the USB socket in my laptop, it refuses to start up the laptop without unplugging the iPod. It doesn't even reach the loading (apple logo displayed) bit.
It boots fine without it plugged in and as soon as i unplug my iPod.

but if my laptop auto turns on in the morning (weekdays) and ive accidentally left iPod plugged in it is left stuck on the grey screen with fans at full.

Any help to solve this problem please?

Joni

Yeah, I had the same problem back when I had a Mini. If my 30GB iPod was plugged in it wouldn't boot.

Don't know what the fix is, but with a Macbook I never shut it down except for restarts required after software updates, long term storage (which has yet to happen) or hardware upgrades. I just close the lid and put it to sleep. The Mini I just left on all the time.

is this the best apple can do? LOL

might put a note in to local apple store, but probably wont do anything to help.