If you stop and think about it the foundation of almost all the technology we use today was already in place at the end of World War II. We had computer, television, radio, radar, telephone, rocket and jet power, automobiles, x-ray, and even nuclear power. Most advances that have occurred since 1945 have been the refinement and mass use of all those things.

So, there 21^st century isn’t all that scary after all. In many ways the 21^st century isn’t much different from the 20^th century. If you’re considering or just beginning to use the newer technologies here are some tips that may help.

1. There’s nothing to fear from consumer technology: It won’t hurt you and you can’t hurt it. Go ahead and jump on in.
2. Decide what you want or need and don’t let someone else decide for you: What are you wanting to do? Is it listen to music, watch big screen television, record shows, take photographs, receive and send email, make phone calls just about anywhere, access the internet, play games or exercise, join a social networking site, do research, watch movies on a computer?

Those are all things technology can help you with and make easier, faster, and more enjoyable. There are flat screen tvs, digital cameras, cell phones, Smartphones, IPods, laptop computers, GPS and more.

But don’t buy technology just to be buying it. You don’t need more stuff sitting around gathering dust.

3. Contact a trustworthy relative or friend and ask for advice: Now that you’ve decided to jump in and you have some idea of what you want from technology, ask a knowledgeable relative or friend about different devices and manufacturers.
4. Purchase only from well-known and trusted sources whether brick-n-mortar store or internet: Schemers and scammers are everywhere. Don’t be tricked by promises of cheap stuff and saving money. Buy from established retailers and wholesalers whether you go to their stores or their websites.
5. Start simple but with quality: If you’re just starting out, keep it simple. If all you want to do is access the internet and send email, get a quality computer (Apple^TM for my money) but don’t purchase extra computing power or fancy software you’re not going to use.
6. Ask your retailer to suggest good instruction; book, class, or course: Electronics stores and book stores have good selection of instruction books or take a course from a local continuing education college. It’ll be fun.
7. Start using your technological gadget: Okay, you got it now start using it. Put in that DVD, listen to that IPod, send some emails, give everyone you know you’re cell phone number, post some messages on Facebook, do some web searches on topics you’re interested in-the important thing is to start using your new gadgets.
8. Experiment with more advanced applications: You’re having fun using what you have and that’s great. Now learn how to upload photos onto Facebook, or play games on your cell phone, or watch movies