still need to recharge it. If you haven't been using it, the iPod still requires a small bit of power while it's sleeping away in a drawer. To keep the iPod gassed up and ready to rock and roll, charge it at least every 14 to 18 days.

9. And Now, This Update...

The ability of the iPod system software to efficiently manage the battery's power is often the subject of great debate among devout Pod People. A huge howl went up from many users after version 1.2 of the iPod software was released because the then-new Clock feature generated a noticeable reduction in average battery life between charges. This was not a pleasing option for some folks, who promptly ditched the new software, skipped the Clock, and went back to iPod software version 1.1 so they could enjoy long hours of music again before they had to come home and recharge.

Apple, of course, recommends that all iPod users download and install each new software update as it is released. The past few updates for the 2001 and 2002 iPods have included efforts to improve battery and power management issues. The latest iPod system software for all Macintosh and Windows models is at apple_com.

10. The Replacements

There comes a time in every battery's life when it just won't hold a charge. Don't take it personally--it's just the nature of chemistry. Age, the amount of use, and the number of charge cycles all affect a battery's overall life span, and sometimes, you just get a dud in the first place. If you find your iPod is barely holding a charge and constantly flashing the Low Battery icon at you, take action. If you're still under Apple's one-year warranty, contact them about the problem. There's an online form at depot.info.apple_com/ipod. Even if you're beyond the warranty, you can get a repair estimate from the company and decide it you want to mail your Pod to the doctor for a battery transplant.

If you're a fearless do-it-yourself user or just want to save some money, you have other options. If you have a 2001 or 2002 iPod, you can get a replacement battery to install yourself for $59 at ipodbattery_com. You can also get a new battery for the same price at PDASmart.com. But if the thought of prying open your Pod gives you the heebies, PDASmart has a mail-order service, wherein you mail your iPod to them and they swap in a new battery and mail it back to you for a mere $68.