Get The Most Out of Gadgets

Learn how to use your new electronic gifts.

ByABC News via logo
December 24, 2007, 1:43 PM

Dec. 25, 2007 — -- Consumers will spend $22.1 billion on electronic gifts this year, according to the Consumer Electronic Association predication.

Watch "Good Morning America" on Christmas Day for more tips on getting the most out of your electronic devices.

While many will be thrilled to unwrap their Christmas tech-savvy gifts, some will wonder how they can get them to work. But you don't have to worry, because ABC News technology contributor Becky Worley gives you tips on getting your new gadgets to work.

In most cases, you don't need to keep the box your gadgets come in with one exception. You should keep the packaging for your flat screen TV.

These are made to be opened from the bottom, which makes them reusable. Plus, the Styrofoam inserts are precisely molded to your TV model.

Now, if you're moving, most professional moving companies won't handle your flat screen television unless you have the original box.

One trick to get optimal battery performance from any device is to completely charge it before the first use.

I know you want to start using your gadget right away. But the best bet is to plug it in overnight and get that battery completely charged. Then, when you do start using it, let it drain down to completely empty before you charge it up again. Basically, you are showing the device what its total battery capacity is.

If your new gadget interfaces with your computer in any way, then you need to install software that gets these devices talking to your computer.

The software may come as a CD in the box or, in the case of an iPod when you hook it up for the first time, it will need to download the software from the Web.

Take the time to do this during the initial set up and installation. It's not like you are going to have more time.