Charging Battery. I have just bought a JVC MG255 video camera as well as a BP-823CL 5 hr battery.

Question

I have just bought a JVC MG255 video camera as well as a BP-823CL 5 hr battery. I am having trouble charging and using the battery, does it have to be charged on it own (orange light appears then turns off after 10- 20 secs) or connected to the camera and camera dock, and what is that extra little cord used for. I am really at a lose or its probably something so simple, please help as I am at a complete lose.