Charging Problems for Ipod Chromatic

With my original 4G ipod nano I could use my polk audio docking station as a charger as well. When I played the ipod it would charge as it went. At work there is also an ipod connect cable in the operating room where I work that used to charge my ipod as it played. With the new nano chromatic I get a message on the screen saying charging is not supported with this accessory.I get the same message at work as well. Is this normal for these new ipods or should they work with docking stations for charging? It plays OK but will not charge. Is there a new generation of docking stations for the chromatics? If not what has changed? Also, is it me or does the battery life on these new ipods totally ****!!!!!!!!!!! I charge mine the night before and play it for a few hours and the battery is 3/4 drained. I am not impressed with the new chromatics. For all there little fancy gimmicks they still don't perform there basic function of playing music at an optimal level. I would rather have the old model.John QuagleiniSt.Andrews, Mb.Canada