Posted by snuzzz_CA on 5/1/08 12:55pm
Msg #245833

Which Blackberry unit synchronizes wirelessly with laptop

I am ready to purchase a Blackberry so I can have access to my email. Is it important not to have to use the usb cables to synchronize with the laptop? Also, other than email what is the most important need for a Blackberry? Thanks for the advice.

Reply by John_NorCal on 5/1/08 1:15pm
Msg #245835

I don't use a Blackberry, I bought one and returned it the next day. I didn't like the interface with my email program. Instead I use a Moto Q by Motorola. It uses Microsoft Active Sync whick is easily downloaded from Microsoft if need be. I love the organizing features, the ability to use email, GPS for directions if I need it, the pdf viewer and Word to go. Blackberry does have a better camera though. If you get one, don't get the Blackberry Pearl (8130) that's the that I returned after one day.

Reply by John_NorCal on 5/1/08 1:17pm
Msg #245836

P.S.

I believe any smart phone can communicate wirelessly with your laptop, either through infrared or bluetooth.

Reply by NCLisa on 5/1/08 1:47pm
Msg #245842

I prefer the USB synch

as the USB cord also charges the Blackberry. I keep a usb cord at the office, and at home, so I can synch and charge my blackberry either place.

I've got a Blackberry Pearl and love it!

Reply by Vince/KS on 5/1/08 1:56pm
Msg #245844

Caution - speed may be affected by using cell phone or pda

to connect your laptop. Visit the Verizon site to see the difference. Standard connection speeds with a broadband wireless card is 600 Kbps to 1.4 Mbps. Blackberry and other devices the standard speed is reduced to 400 to 700 Kbps. It's more expensive to maintain both a cell and wireless card, but you can still receive calls on your cell if you are connected through a seperate wireless card. Just a consideration before you buy.

Reply by Gary_CA on 5/2/08 10:49am
Msg #245914

ABSOLUTELY- I usually drive a little slower wh texting ;) n/m

Reply by Gary_CA on 5/1/08 3:16pm
Msg #245855

Apples and oranges...and blackberries

I have a new 8830, not the Pearl, the big one with the keyboard. About 3 weeks now, I like it better than the Treo and the Motorola Q it replaces...

So there's two different things going on...

Your email will sync wirelessly from your email server to their server to your blackberry without touching your laptop/desktop. (It'll go to your computer too, but not to get to your blackberry)... that's wireless email synch... and it works whenever you're in cell range.

Besides that you need to synch your contacts, calendar and grocery list. That's done locally from your computer... either with the USB cable or, I do it with Bluetooth. Nice setup, it connects and synchs automatically whenever I toss it on my desk.

It can also use bluetooth between the phone and the computer then serve as a wireless modem for the computer... I've used it with my previous phones, but not this one yet.

Reply by CF on 5/1/08 3:30pm
Msg #245856

Re: Apples and oranges...and blackberries

Just got the TREO 755 and LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!!! I bought the Centro....and returned it- it was too small. So I got the TREO- it is the greatest thing ever! It runs on the PALM platform....and it is true email and ture internet- not like windows mobile. Also, you have to get a blackberry plan to use blackberry- and a lot of large companies say that the interface is not protected. My husbands company will not allow interface with backberries....and I know of couple of banks too that will not use that interface. The TREO uses infa-red to sync...or cables. I use the infa-red it is eaiser.

Good luck- you will love getting a smart phone- whatever one you choose. I think that most companies let you have 30 days trial now- so you maybe able to use and try something else too.

Reply by snuzzz_CA on 5/4/08 3:53am
Msg #246200

Thanks to everyone for your response! I really appreciate it.. Have a great Sunday...