Do you have to use your airtime if you are tethering your blackberry to the data network?

Thanks,
Mike

It's a data call. I'm assuming you paid for the unlimited data plan?

When I use my 7130e as a modem for my laptop it does not count against my voice minutes.

Thanks...yeah, I got the unlimited plan.

Mike

Here's my understanding of how it works (which wasn't explained to me when I bought the 7130e). VZW automatically puts all BB users on the unlimited data plan for an additional $45/mo. Tethering requires an additional $15/mo and is also unlimitted. Calling minutes are not used.

You got it right. Just remember when tethered (connected) you won't receive emails or other data type messaging.

But, I was pleased to discover, if you are tethered in EVDO and a voice call comes in, it will ring through to the phone.

how is the internet speed when using the 7130e tethered to a laptop?

With 1XEV I get between 450k and 650k throughput. There is a bit of latency getting a page, but after that it screams.