I just picked up an 8700c over the weekend, trying to migrate from my Windows mobile device since the company I work for now does not support those. Anyway, I'm filled with questions...

First, I'm not yet hooked into the BES. That will probably happen Monday when the administrator is back. I did install the software on my laptop, but cannot seem to connect to my 8700c when plugged into a USB port. Does it require the Exchange Server piece before even that connectivity works?

Second, I have a lot of contacts on my home system in outlook. Is there any way to synchronize to that one too so I can get those contacts loaded? I didn't want to install the software onto a non-exchange connected machine until I understood better how the whole blackberry sync works.

Third, I installed Google Local (great program) with no problems using direct download. But that raised the question for the future, how do I delete an application? I don't see any remove program options anywhere.

Overall, I love the feel of the unit, I've read about some dust issues, so I have my fingers crossed. Now, to find a good expense app...

No, it does not requires connecting to the BES first. I'm not on one and I connect. I don't know why it wouldn't work though. The only thing I can offer you is to make sure everything is connected properly.

Yes, you can sync your BlackBerry to Outlook. Again, so specific details on how to do it, but I promise you can search these forums and find out how.

Click on Options, then Advanced Options, then Applications. Then just find the application you want to delete, click the trackwheel over it and select delete.

Hope this helps you out a little. Enjoy the 8700!