Product photography

Please advise on product photography. I list electronic test equipment
on my website. I have a 7 mega pixel camera. I just tried using a
white-white background for my pictures but after much effort I finally
realized that a very-white background is not the best solution. I wish
to use Photoshop to eliminate the background behind the equipment so
each item appears to float. Exactly like is done in many product
catalogs. I know this is very common but there must be a trick or
technique I'm not aware of. Of course I'd like the best quality,
professional pictures possible but I do understand that people spend
many years to become proficient in photography. So, I am realistic in
my expectations. But, I know I can get getter pictures than I have
currently.

First, is there and good online info on using a digital camera for
product photograph (product advertising)?

Second, what background would be best. Do I need a green-screen?
Obviously, a white-white background is not the answer. Plus the
white-ness seems to compete with the darker colors, especially black,
and the camera doesn't seem to process the scene correctly.