I am trying to update my iPod software. And it asks me to restore. I have tried to restore for several times. And i still get 1611 error message saying that an unknown error occurred and my iPod couldn't be restored. http://macosx.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1517230#post1517230
Error 1611 indicates an issue with the hardware (of the PC or Mac usually). http://support.apple.com/kb/TS3694#error1611
(general and specific iPod troubleshooting steps also included in the KB)
One fix that has worked (on PCs especially) for 1611 has been disconnecting the iPod from the computer, then removing the USB cable and put it in another port. Dont reconnect your iPod yet but reboot the PC (or Mac). After the reboot open iTunes and restore could be more available now.
Otherwise if that fails... please give more details. Mac os PC? Which OS and update?
Which iPod? What kind of Mac or PC do you have?
If it's on a PC, I'd disable the Vista or 7 "advanced" controls and try with safe boot without any additional crapware drivers preventing the iPod recognition.