My battery had got too low, so having the same start / recharge issues. Tried all the tricks except opening the device, but then happened upon a Nokia charger (5V 550mA) that must be just that little bit stronger than the standard USB charger. Popped that on and went straight to the desired flashing light that indicated initial charging. Shortly thereafter up popped the start screen and we are now happily charging up the battery with no need to reload or lose anything. Big sigh of relief.