Hi everyone, this is my first post here. I was going to get the iPhone next week and switch from Verizon to AT&T, but I got a free BlackBerry 8830 from Verizon so I figured I would do with this for a while.

This is my first BlackBerry/smart phone of any kind. I really have no business need, I just love technology and gadgets. I had the Motorola KRZR which completey sucked. I went through three handsets since January since they all had issues. Finally last weekend I called Verizon to argue with them and tell them I want something different. They told me I could exchange it for an LG which I told them was unacceptable because I paid nearly double for the KRZR. I said they could either give me the difference back or just give me all my money back and I would activate one of my old phones for the remainder of my contract. They came back after several calls and far too much time on the phone and said I could exchange for anything I wanted. So naturally I picked the best/most expensive thing they have right now.

I'm getting way off topic. The real reason I am writing is because I'm having a problem with the sound. I got the device on Monday night and noticed that after some calls or some activities the sound would stop working. The key beeps, track ball "clicks" and the ringer would stop working. Later, and unpredictably it starts working again. I brought it back last night to ask about it and the tech said that he just would exchange it because it shouldn't be doing that. So I have another one and it's doing the same thing. I can't imagine that they all do this, so what's going on? Any suggestions?

Oh, one other thing of note. He said not to charge the device for more than three hours since it can cause software issues. The first one I did charge for longer because I wasn't aware of this restriction, but the new handset I haven't charged for more than three hours. I called the technical support number for Verizon today but they just said to look at adjusting the sound in the profiles. The profiles only seems to have ringer preferences however.

Wirelessly posted (8700g: BlackBerry8800/4.2.1 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/102)

If the BlackBerry is not working properly, just take it back.
Normally the sounds don't just quit working, and if the Profiles are set correctly, then you have a problem. It is unlikely (though not impossible) two BlackBerrys would have the exact same odd issue--and that you would get both of them.
Charging your BlackBerry has absolutely nothing to with affecting the OS. Charge your BlackBerry to 100% regardless.

Thank you for sharing the info about the duration for charging the phone.

I think that is bogus info. I have charged mine over night and dont get "software issues" because it's charging. The "power" should have ZERO to do with software.

That information is totally bogus.

Here is a good guide.
Maximum Battery Life - BlackBerryFAQ
A simple rule of thumb is when you get your BB, charge it to 100%. You can't do more than 100%, even if you leave it there 24 hours.
Afterwards, top it off whenever you like, in the car, at work, etc. Ten minutes here and there are good for batteries and your charge.

Charging does not affect your OS.

GREAT info. Thanks

*plugs in BB...*