Hi everyone.
I'm attempting to update my ipad to 4.2 ios, but every time I click on "check for update", I receive an error message that reads,

"The iPad sofware update server could not be contacted"

Anyone have any solutions to this? I'm connected to my internet just fine, and I believe iTunes is up to date. Thanks.

Have you tried rebooting/restarting your computer. iTunes could be confused and rebooting might just clear it's little mind.

Well I just tried it with no luck. Also worth noting is that my iTunes is up to date and my iPad 3.2.2 is jailbroken.

I experienced the same thing, but I was not jb.
I downloaded the 4.2.1 from the apple's site manually, then update using the shift key.

Okkk major problem. I tried the shift trick, and it seemed as though it was working, then the iPad gave me the USB/iTunes black screen, and now iTunes is saying my iPad is in recovery mode, and the restore of 4.2.1 isnt working.

Try this method:

Method to Restore through iTunes.

1. Connect your device to iTunes.

2. Turn your device off by holding Home + Power buttons until screen goes black then immediately let go of both buttons.

3. Now that your device is off and the cables connected, press and hold the Home button and unplug the USB cable and plug it back in from the iPhone 4 end while continuing to hold down the Home button.

6. This will put you in Restore Mode so you can Restore through iTunes.