RIM BlackBerry 6230 Phone (T-Mobile)

Compatible with T-Mobile cell phone service, RIM's Java-based BlackBerry 6230 is a business-oriented phone, organizer, and communication device that works like a normal phone but also happens to give you e-mail access, SMS text messaging, and Web browsing along with everything you'd expect from an organizer--all in a single wireless handheld that supports international GSM/GPRS roaming. The 6230 uses a 160 x 100 pixel monochrome screen and comes with an easily attaching headset for convenient, hands-free conversation so you can read, type, or retrieve information while you talk.

The 6230 offers tri-band 900/1800/1900 MHz GSM/GPRS networking and operates on 1900 MHz in the US and Canada (900/1800 MHz in Europe/Asia Pacific). GSM/GPRS networks grant "always-on" operation and let you maintain a virtual connection to the wireless network for data services. GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) is a packet-switched network designed for wide-area data communication, while GSM offers high-quality mobile voice services.

Calling Features

Hold the 6230 to your ear like a regular phone so you can answer it quickly, or use the included headset to talk while you read and type on the unit's backlit QWERTY keyboard. The 6230 fits comfortably in your hand as you send and receive calls worldwide. Its PDA format provides a nifty, thumb-operated track wheel for extra-easy dialing and menu navigation. The 6230 also includes an integrated earpiece and microphone, call-alert options (tone, vibrate, onscreen or LED indicator), and selectable font sizes.

Messaging and Internet

The 6230's embedded RIM wireless modem offers a variety of wireless Internet services, including e-mail with integrated attachment viewing. You can integrate the unit's e-mail with existing business e-mail accounts, existing personal e-mail accounts, or with a new handheld e-mail account. SMS capability lets you send and receive short text messages independent of an e-mail inbox, and you can use the phone's keyboard to quickly exchange messages with other SMS-enabled devices.

View e-mail attachments in variety of file formats (including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, WordPerfect, and Adobe PDF) and fire up the included Internet browser to visit Web sites, retrieve up-to-date stock quotes, read news, and check weather forecasts. Use the keyboard to punch in URLs, then navigate Web pages and follow links using the click-and-scroll trackwheel. (Check with your Internet service provider for availability and compatibility.)

Organizer

The 6230's BlackBerry Desktop software (3.6 or higher) works with BlackBerry Enterprise Servers, which are supported by Version 2.1 or higher for Microsoft Exchange or Version 2.0 with Service Pack 2 or higher for Lotus Domino. It also supports Java development platform based on open standards. When you're using the handheld, a browser, and software-development tools, the BlackBerry Enterprise Server's Mobile Data Service (MDS) grants always-on/push-based access to enterprise applications and information. Security features include password protection and keyboard lock.

Maximize your productivity through easy access to your calendar (manage and schedule appointments while you're on the go), address book (access all your important contact information wherever you are), and task list (add, edit, and delete tasks and mark tasks as complete). MemoPad lets you compose, edit, and delete important notes and memos, while a calculator lets you perform basic mathematical operations and conversions.

Vital Statistics

The BlackBerry 6230 is loaded with 16 MB flash memory plus 2 MB SRAM, weighs 4.8 ounces, and measures 4.4 x 2.9 x 0.8 inches. Its removable lithium-ion battery is rated at up to 5 hours digital talk time, and up to 16 days digital standby time. It comes with a USB cable for charging and PC synchronization, an international travel charger, a swivel holster, and a handheld stand.

1 Addictive but it will change your life, as Oprah said
Sorry Oprah: My brother-in-law got to me saying I had to have a Blackberry before this little gadget appeared on the "O" Favorite Things list.

Like all cell phones and wireless Internet devices, the Blackberry has its quirks, but I wasn't half so happy with my Palm VIIx.

Where to begin with the luscious Blackberry? There's the calendar for one. To-do list. Notepad. Web browsing with T-zones and local info, plus finances.....and e-mail! You can sync your POP e-mail, whether it's your own unique domain name address, Yahoo!, AOL, Hotmail, Earthlink, Roadrunner...you may be tempted to think you don't need a computer. While the Blackberry may not replace your PC/Mac, it will increase your productivity and help you organize your life. Drawback: You won't be able to put it down!

I do recommend that you get an organizing software such as LotusNotes. To productivity and beyond!

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