sandisk sansa e280r

Does the computer recognize it at all when it’s connected? 

The battery is not charging. Try opening the back–four screws, don’t lose them–taking out the battery and making sure it’s back in tightly, just like a cell-phone battery, and try charging again. 

If it still doesn’t charge, either the battery is worn out or there’s a problem with the charging circuit. The battery can be replaced (look on Amazon for E200 battery). If it’s the charging circuit, it’s dead, Jim. You won’t know unless you try a new battery.