Cell phones are one of the best innovations of the past decadeThey have ushered in an era where anyone can be connected to others, anywhere, anytimeText messaging has become a fad, not only among the youth but also on the corporate levelThere is hardly anyone without a cell phone these days.

And as it is with technology, the cell phone has evolved in many waysIn fact, it may be the fastest evolving gadget there is, with new models being introduced to the market within just a month of one anotherAside from sophisticated gaming capabilities, most phones now feature Internet browsing via WAP, video and photo cameras, radio and MP3 playersSome even have the functions of handheld PCs, allowing word processing and presentationsAll these extra applications use a lot of power.

Most cell phone batteries are Lithium Ion (LiOn)-the most lightweight rechargeable battery kind that does not have an effect on memory.

Most phones offer vibrator alarm featuresIt is actually the battery that vibratesSome offer longer talk time hours (hours spent using the phone calling or receiving a call)Cell phone batteries are often specific to the model of the phoneSwapping batteries may cause damage to the units.

Before you use your new phone, first charge its battery for eight hours straightBatteries need this initial chargeFailure to do so would cause the battery to expire before its intended life span.

Avoid exposing your cell phone and its battery to extreme heat and moistureWatch out that you do not overcharge your phoneThe heat may cause your unit to explodeAvoid dropping the batteriesOccasionally, drain your batteries and charge them fullyIf left unused for more than two months, recharge the battery completely.