iPhone 3G possible dock connector problem Or else

Well I just bought a refurbished iPhone 3g, it was unlocked at the time, but I wanted to use it solely for its iPod capabilities, rather than its phone aspects. I ran into a small problem, that being that the phone is not recognized by my computer. The phone recognizes that it is plugged into my computer, and will charge, but my computer will not recognize my phone, thus, will not allow my phone to sync with iTunes. In addition to that, I decided to take an proactive attempt at fixing the iPhone myself, and did an Settings and Data reset. Excited, and hoping to see some sort of result, I come to you all disappointed to say that my iPhone is bricked. It will turn on (after pressing the power button, or plugging it into a computer) and will show the apple sign. It will then have the loading circle that will spin for a bit, then freeze. It will stay froze for a while, then reset itself, and repeat the process. Now Ive heard that I am able to reset my iPhone, by putting it into DFU mode, but Im not sure this will work, seeing as how my computer still fails to recognize my iPhone. If its of any importance (which Im sure it is), I have a Toshiba Satellite L305 S5968 Laptop Running Windows 7 Ultimate. If there is any possible solution to my scenario BESIDES buying a new iPhone, PLEASE tell me what it is...
Toshiba Satellite Windows 7 L305 S5968