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| This is a discussion on Guide to: Getting started with BlackBerry within the Handheld Guides forums, part of the Blackberry Guides category; On this page: * BlackBerry basics * Choosing a provider * Important points to keep in mind BlackBerry basics A ... |
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03-21-2005 -
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| Guide to: Getting started with BlackBerry
On this page: * BlackBerry basics * Choosing a provider * Important points to keep in mind BlackBerry basics A BlackBerry is a handheld wireless device created by Research in Motion (RIM) that reads email and calendars from enterprise-class email systems. For more information visit: http://www.blackberry.com Choosing a provider Determine where you're going to use the BlackBerry the most, or at least decide where it's critical that you have BlackBerry reception, and see which company has the best coverage in that area. The wireless network providers usually have coverage maps available either on their Web sites, in their stores, or by mail upon request. Keep in mind that the wireless data network is not the same as the cellular network, so you'll want to specifically mention BlackBerry when you're asking about coverage. Important points to keep in mind About BlackBerries A BlackBerry is designed and geared towards delivering text, so its graphics capabilities are practically nonexistent. Also, because it's designed primarily as an email device, a limited number of applications is available. While it is a type of personal digital assistant (PDA), it is not meant to be used in the same way that a Palm Pilot or PocketPC device is. Those devices are literally miniature computers. BlackBerries come with complete alphanumeric keyboards; many PDAs don't. Some people love them because of this. Some people do not, because the keys are small. Supported operating systems The Desktop Manager software for the BlackBerry is available for Windows-based computers. While an Outlook client exists for Mac OS 9, and a MAPI client exists for Mac OS X, RIM has not released any software for the Macintosh or for any platform other than Windows. However, 'Pocket Mac' can be used.* *Support is not guaranteed for other platforms.  |
