Batteries 101

I need more help []

I was very lucky to receive a Sony ebook reader for my birthday a few months ago [8D][8D] The Sony was chosen as it is meant to have superiour battery performance. When I first got it, the battery lasted for ages but now it always seems to be out of power. I charged it up, switched if off (not to sleep, really off!) and when I started it there was absolutely no charge.

Can someone explain how to keep batteries in good condition? Should I be recharging all the time? or just when it's about to run out? I'm having similar issues with my mobile phone and I'm beginning to think it's me...[]

Cheers
Kate

I saw one of those things for the first time the other day, I'm most jealous. Never thought I'd like them, but it was very cool and so easy to read.

Does anything here help? Battery care always confuses me, one expert will say discharge, one will say never discharge:(:confused: