How can I fix my Creative Zen V? Help!!?

I recently bought a Creative Zen V 4GB MP3 Player in Germany. I've had a number of problems with it, the battery ran out very quickly and took a long time to charge on my laptop. I then found out that it charged better on a PC - problem solved. But, it then got stuck in a recovery mode and wouldn't turn off, I managed to delete my firmware as I panicked. I think I've downloaded the new firmware for the Zen V off www.creative.com but when I attempt to transfer this firmware I keep getting a message that my player is not connected. I have it plugged in with the usb cable so I don't know what I'm doing wrong. Can anybody help or understand my problem? Thank you if you can!