See EDIT below first

Dave, welome to the group.

First, is there a reason you are using an old version of desktop manager? If you are using an old version of Microsoft Outlook, that would be a good reason. But make sure you use the SP2 or SP3 version of 4.2.

Second, I think (not sure) desktop manager 4.X versions show disabled when the blackberry is not connected, and then switch from disabled to connected when the blackberry connects.

When you installed desktop manger, did you select the personal (BIS) option? You did not select the BES or the redirector option, correct?

Did the installation go ok? Does desktop manager lauch and run satisfactorily otherwise, with no error messages? If so, try different USB ports on the computer. Don't use a hub, do use a USB connection on the keyboard. It is advised to use a USB on the back of the box if you are using a desktop, if you are having trouble. If you are using a laptop, you might want to try using a desktop if you have one available.


EDIT: Is it actually a notification window you are seeing with, Disabled - BlackBerry Desktop Manager ? If so, how about the following: Clock ok. Click Connection Settings. Select USB in the drop down menu. Then connect the blackberry. (If you have a password on the blackbery, you will have to enter it in both desktop manager and the blackberry when prompted.) You may have to select "dectect" on the computer.

You should consider using the latest desktop manager if there is no reason for you to stick with the old version.

I agree with aiharkness's reply. More info here.

View Document

Phew ! thank's for a very exhaustive answer,
The problem is the BB won't connect, when I click options and get the drop down menu, USB or No.3 port it won't detect, so I think this may be the problem with port selection, I will go over instalation once again using your sugestions and see where I get to.
Thanks for now, Dave.....

Post an update when you get the chance.

Trying another USB cable is something else to try, if you still have trouble, especially if it's an old cable.

HI,
I have followed all these helpful comments - still to no avail. I've downloaded and installed the latest desktop manager -followed carefully what to do - then I've also changed my usb cable the ports are working fine - (I am on a hp laptop - quite new).
I can "see" the device outside of the desktop manager - when I look up what's installed on my computer. BUT when I re-open desktop manager it essentially remains GREY - meaning, I cannot open "Options" or even "help" -nothing clicks so I'm completely stimied. Any further suggestions would be most welcome.
Christine.

Are you using a company provided BB and are on BES?

Or is this a recently purchased, used device?

Some company-provided BlackBerrys are prevented from using Desktop Manager via IT Policy. In addition, work pc's can be disabled from allowing Desktop Manager from working.

Is there a workaround.....I bought my 9000 used and it does have an IT policy on it. I downloaded the JL_Cmder to reset phone and remove IT policy, but I need the DM to do this right? Thx!

Is there a workaround.....I bought my 9000 used and it does have an IT policy on it. I downloaded the JL_Cmder to reset phone and remove IT policy, but I need the DM to do this right? Thx!

Yeah, you gotta have Desktop Manager to re-install the OS after the device is wiped by JL_Commander. No way around that.