I would really appreciate some help. I'm trying to choose a pda and I think Blackberry is the way to go. My needs are:

1. email
2. contact info---Ihave about 5,500 contacts in Outlook
3. Calendar management (I use Outlook on my desktop)
4. Task management (I use Outlook)
5. I do not need/want a phone---integrated devices are too expensive and I just renewed my Verizon contract so I'm not eligible for the rebates.
6. I don't need MP3, games, web browsing.
7. Price is an issue---we are a start-up firm.

My questions are:

1. What is the best Blackberry device to buy?
2. Where do I buy it? (I looked on the rim.com site for the 5790, for example, shopping links lead in a circle)
3. What type of price should I expect?
4. How do I sign up for service?

This seems like a great forum----very strong loyalty from users---I'm just having trouble finding a device!!! Thanks in advance for your help

I started to reply then see the "dont need an integrated device"...If you used one you may change your mind.
As one of my friends claimed not to long ago, "look at my belt if I fall in a pond I'm gonna be zapped!"
I just moved to a 7230, and am looking forward to not having multiple devices. Verizon has a bb option, you can add to your account. That being said - I'd get a blackberry that supports java so you can do attachments. You can get one of the 6000 models and get data only. Verizon has bb service, if your happy with their footprint I'd stay there.

There are some good deals on the 7230 on amazon and other places right now. Not sure about other carriers. I went with tmo and the 7230 - so ymmv
later

Hey,

great reply, thanks for the info. I understand what you are saying (with good humor--I'll keep clear of all waterways while fully outfitted with my electric communication devices strapped to my torso). However, is it possible to buy a data-only model and have it hold all of my contacts (about 5500) and still function as an e-mail device? I'm thinking of a cheap buy on e-bay. Or do I have to jump in with both feet (to keep the water theme alive)?

It looks like, also, that the data service has to be purchased through one of the wireless companies. I suppose, since I may be buying data-only, that I could buy an older data-only and sign up with Cingular for the data and keep my Verizon contract for my cell phone.

My understanding is you can buy any of the bb integrated devices and only activate the bb service.
BB has just released a new model 5790
http://www.blackberry.com/products/b...D=ILC-hahr5790
that will allow only data, but U have no idea what this costs. You would be better off buying a 6700 or 7200 series used and only getting the dataplan.
Lets see what some other users say.

jdpak -

I just went with an ATT BB (data only) and kept my Verizon cell phone as VZW gave me the runaround with purchasing the BB without a voice plan and the 7750 at full price was considerably more then the 7280. I am very happy with my choice and am finding that in Westchester County NY as well as NYC the coverage is comperable between the two carriers.

HTH
AlanB