Holiday Electronics Gift Care: Making New Devices Last

The holidays often mean new electronics - TVs, gaming consoles, computers, headphones, and more. How you set up and initially care for these devices can affect how long they last. Here’s how to get your new electronics started right.

Unboxing Best Practices

Don’t Rush

• Save all packaging until you’re sure it works
• Keep receipts and proof of purchase
• Register for warranty if required
• Document serial numbers

Check Everything

Before setup:

• Inspect for physical damage
• Verify all accessories are included
• Check for protective films to remove
• Read any “start here” guides

Acclimate If Needed

If electronics were shipped in cold weather:

• Let them warm to room temperature before powering on
• Condensation can form inside cold electronics
• Wait at least 2 hours after bringing in from the cold

Setting Up New TVs

Placement

• Ensure proper ventilation clearance
• Avoid direct sunlight on screen
• Keep away from heat sources
• Use appropriate wall mount if hanging

Initial Settings

• Choose “Home” mode, not “Store/Demo”
• Adjust brightness down from factory settings
• Enable energy saving features
• Set up proper input labels

Protection

• Connect to surge protector immediately
• Consider registering for warranty
• Enable firmware auto-updates
• Set up parental controls if needed

Setting Up Gaming Consoles

Ventilation

• Don’t place in enclosed cabinets
• Ensure clearance on all sides
• Keep away from other heat sources
• Consider vertical stands for better airflow

Initial Setup

• Complete system updates before playing
• Set up user accounts and parental controls
• Configure power settings
• Enable auto-updates

Long-Term Care

• Don’t block vents with decorations
• Keep disc drives clean
• Maintain controller properly
• Use rest mode appropriately

Setting Up Computers

Physical Setup

• Place where dust is minimal
• Ensure good airflow
• Keep cables organized
• Consider surge protection and UPS

Software Setup

• Complete all operating system updates
• Set up backup solution immediately
• Install only necessary software
• Configure security settings

Creating Good Habits

• Shut down properly
• Keep liquids away
• Clean peripherals regularly
• Back up important data

Smartphones and Tablets

Initial Setup

• Complete all updates first
• Set up biometric security
• Enable Find My Device features
• Configure backup settings

Screen Protection

• Apply screen protector carefully
• Use appropriate case
• Keep away from keys and coins

Battery Best Practices

• Don’t fully drain regularly
• Avoid extreme temperatures
• Use quality charging accessories
• Charge before it gets critical

Headphones and Audio Equipment

Breaking In

Some audio equipment benefits from break-in:

• Start at moderate volumes
• Let them play for several hours
• Don’t max out volume initially

Care From Day One

• Store properly when not in use
• Clean ear pads regularly
• Don’t stretch headbands
• Keep cables coiled loosely

Smart Home Devices

Network Setup

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Keep firmware updated
• Consider separate IoT network
• Review privacy settings

Physical Placement

• Follow manufacturer guidelines
• Ensure proper ventilation
• Keep microphone-enabled devices out of private spaces if concerned

Common New-Device Mistakes

Don’t Do These

• Throwing away packaging immediately
• Skipping the manual entirely
• Ignoring initial updates
• Using inadequate surge protection
• Placing in poor locations
• Using cheap charging accessories

Do These Instead

• Keep packaging for warranty period
• At least skim the quick start guide
• Complete all updates before heavy use
• Invest in proper surge protection
• Plan placement for longevity
• Use quality accessories

When New Devices Have Problems

Within Return Window

• Test thoroughly within return period
• Don’t hesitate to exchange defective items
• Document any issues

After Return Window

• Check warranty coverage
• Contact manufacturer support
• Consider repair for valuable items

Dead on Arrival (DOA)

If a new device doesn’t work:

• Don’t assume you’re doing something wrong
• Exchange immediately if possible
• Manufacturer DOA processes exist

Protecting Your Investment

Documentation

• Save receipts (photograph them)
• Note serial numbers
• Register for warranties
• Keep packaging for warranty period

Physical Protection

• Use cases and protectors
• Store properly
• Keep in appropriate environments
• Clean regularly

Electrical Protection

• Surge protectors on everything
• Quality power supplies
• UPS for computers
• Unplug during storms

Our Post-Holiday Services

New device problems? We can help:

• Setup assistance - Getting things connected properly
• Problem diagnosis - When new devices don’t work
• Integration help - Making devices work together
• Damage repair - When accidents happen

Have a new device that’s giving you trouble? Bring it in and we’ll help you get it working right.

Happy holidays, and may your new electronics serve you well for years to come!