7th gen IPod appears as a 5th gen

Although it might look like a 7th generation iPod to you, in fact I think you will find it's a 5th generation one. The iPod's capacity, as seen in the screenshot says 29.99GB, or in other words, a 30GB iPod.

The later models of iPod, known as the iPod Classic, did not come in a 30GB capacity. They all had more storage. Specifically:

• • the 80GB and the 160GB versions, first released in September 2007 and commonly referred to as a 6th generation iPod, or iPod Classic (and the first one to be referred to {by Apple} as the iPod Classic)
  • the 120GB model, released in September 2008, also known as the iPod Classic or 6th generation
  • the revised 160GB model released in September 2009, again known as the iPod Classic, or sometimes referred to as a 7th generation iPod Classic

As far as getting the iPod recognised properly by Finder (about which I know every little), open the Finder menu, go to General and make sure that CDs, DVDs and iPods is ticked (checked). Then see if you can get Finder to Restore the iPod. Also, see if either of these Apple articles help:

• • Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support
  • If your computer doesn't recognize your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

If you want further confirmation of the model of your iPod;

• • is there a serial number etched into the back casing and if so, what are the last three letters of that serial number? (Don't post the entire serial number)
  • if you can get into the iPod itself (i.e not with Finder), go to Settings and look for the software version. What does that say?

Either of the above pieces of information can help us identify your model.