In this high-tech world where electronic gadgets and equipment abound, batteries are everywhere" ?allowing portability and unhampered enjoyment. Packed with power, batteries can make the simplest contraptions, like flashlights and lampshades, to more complex machines, like laptops and cars, run.

In remote places in the world where electricity cannot reach villages, people depend on batteries to carry on with their everyday activities. Even hospitals these places depend on batteries to work. Batteries make life a little more bearable for most people.

Although all batteries work using a common principle (the flow of electrons between the positive and negative terminals), there are many kinds available in the market. When buying or installing one to your gadget, always refer to the product brochure or guide first for compatibility requirements. For example, an ordinary pair of AA-size batteries that you use for your alarm clock may not work well, if at all, for your digital camera. Batteries for electronic gadgets are a whole different line.

Batteries also vary in voltage and in the current they can produce over a period of time. Thus, there are those that boast longer life. But batteries also accumulate their energy output. If you put several batteries in a circuit, they add up their voltages. The bigger the gadget and the more complex the functions it operates, the bigger the batteries are needed.

Bigger batteries are used in emergency power systems and in light vehicles, such as golf carts and wheelchairs. These batteries are also called deep-cycle batteries. This kind provides constant energy over an extended period of time.

Manufacturers warn against exposing batteries to extreme heat, whether to fire or overcharging (for rechargeable batteries). A battery basically is composed of chemicals that are combustible. Thus, it is also not advisable to open the batteries.

Batteries should be stored properly" ?away from direct sunlight and pressure. And empty batteries should be disposed of properly.