DVDINSIDER: Survey Shows Americans Are Somewhat Intimidated by New Technology.

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From digital cameras and DVD players to computers and entertainment software, technology was a top gift this holiday season. But now that all the presents are unwrapped and the holidays

A new survey commissioned by retailer Best Buy shows that although Americans are excited about technology, they're somewhat intimidated about getting the ball rolling. In fact, six out of 10 people say they don't use their technology to the fullest and don't easily adapt to new technology. Some even leave their tech gift inside the box for a long period of time because they don't know where to start.

While 64 percent of people say they are more tech savvy than 10 years ago, 71 percent say they don't consider themselves knowledgeable about today's technology, and have the hardest time understanding the finer points of computers and digital cameras. The survey indicated that most people attempt to solve their own technology problems, while some seek help from friends and significant others.

And, that's where the Geek Squad comes in. They're not quite as fast as a speeding bullet and they can't really leap tall buildings, but a group of geeks around the country are making quite an impression. Just ask some of the folks who have come to love a "Geek" -- people such as Ozzy Osbourne, the Rolling Stones, KISS, U2 and Darryl Hannah.

The Geek Squad is a premium service offered by Best Buy with the goal of spreading consumer electronics comfort and cheer. The Geeks will come to your home, help you in designated Best Buy stores, or talk with you over the phone to help you learn how to use the latest technology such as computers, palm pilots and a whole array of other items that Americans likely have just received as holiday gifts.

"What we mostly see after the holidays are compatibility issues, people trying to make their new technology play nicely with their old technology," said Robert Stephens, founder and chief inspector of the Geek Squad. "Consumer demand was so high this year that we had to open on Christmas Eve and New Year's Day, which is a first for us. But if we can help even one person learn to get the most out of their computer technology, the extra hours are worth it."

If you received a technology gift that you're uneasy about using, Stephens and the "Geeks" have some simple advice:

-- Play around with your new technology. People learn best when they are playing and having fun and technology is usually less intimidating after you've spent some time getting to know your new gadget.

-- Read the manual. You'll learn things about your gadget that you never even dreamed of.

-- Try our "5-Minute Miracle" - If your technology crashes, turn it off, grab a cup of coffee and power everything back up. You'll be surprised how often this works.

-- If your computer seems slow or isn't obedient, you may need more RAM or a bigger hard drive. Also try removing old programs.