http://www.hackint0sh.org/f148/123303.htm

I found this site while searching for a solution to my problem...I found that thread.

The differences are that my device is an iphone 4 and I have not yet jailbroken it. It was working perfectly and one day I got up for work and the phone had been plugged in but it was dead. Every computer I plug it into says it cannot recognize the device (even my home computer), the phone will only charge if I first plug it in and then shut it off. If I plug it in after turning it off it will automatically start up. As stated I've tried different pc's, even a mac but they all do the same thing (cannot recognize device) and I've tried different cables, I actually bought a new cable because I thought my old cable was the problem...nope.

I went to the verizon store, there were two ladies working and only one other customer in the store...they said they couldn't do much because they were short staffed and suggested I call customer support, I assume she meant their techs were all out...I've dealt with customer support and they only tell me to do everything I've already tried. I may give them a try though as a last ditch effort.

I've tried putting into recovery mode but I don't think it does...with the phone on I hold the power/home buttons until it shuts off. Thankfully it still charges. The lady also suggested I reset the phone to factory, but I have not synced my phone in a month and I have made several music purchases (through itunes), I'm sure I could get them back...right?...but I have several voice and txt memos I have yet to back up. Plus I'm not sure it would work...but I'm exhausting all my options. I have sync'd the phone several times (and backed up) in the past, but I JUST bought a bunch of new music (4 albums) and have not been able to back it up. The memos and photos I can just email myself.

Is my "recovery mode" technique flawed? Anyone have some ideas? I haven't been doing anything "odd" with the phone, haven't dropped it, haven't gotten it wet, and like I said I have not even jailbroken it. I would appreciate any advice.