As gadgets get more complicated, we’re ever more helpless when they seemingly die on us. Luckily, the majority of problems are software-related, so usually a patch can be downloaded from the internet and you’re on your merry way. Nonetheless, sometimes problems are hardware failures. For example, look at the XBOX 360 and how flooded the Support for XBOX have been in trying to handle the RROD (Red Ring of Death) heat problems. When your hardware fails, the only thing you can do is send it back for repairs. Do not endeavour to fix the failure by yourself.

Inevitably the early adopters of such gadgets end up being the guinea pigs, whether they like it or not. It’s invariably a wise move to resist the enticement of being among the first people to get a cutting-edge gizmo. The first in the queue will face higher prices, and have more failures than people who delay making a purchase.

If your new gaming console - or mobile phone - or mp3 player - does experience an issue, look on the net and find if others have experienced a similar failure to you, and what they did to fix it. You can often save hours of going through the same hoops as others. Frequently other individuals have found a specific number for Motorola help for instance.