Hi all,

Is it reasonably safe to buy a generic car charger for my BlackBerry 8830? I just got it, and this is my first smart phone ever, so I'm a little nervous about it.

Thanks!

I've noticed that, occasinally, some work and some don't.

I think as long as you're not buying it at a dollar store, and it's a quality cord you're okay. I have an FM transmitter for my iPod that uses the same USB port as my BB, so I have the VZW charger in my wifes car, and use the Belkin version in mine. I've read some post saying some cords don't charge as quickly, but I haven't noticed any difference.

I use my Motorola KRZR car charger to charge my blackberry and it charges without any issues. Like the post above I would stay away from 'dollar store' chargers!

A few difference in dollars, I would say, I'd go with an original RIM accessory. It is designed specifically for the BlackBerry to provide consistent current. And besides, it is easier to get warranty on your battery incase you will have a problem or issue within the first 12 months of use.

Never had a problem using the Moto RZR charger. Checked the volt/wattage and it's the same as the BB OEM one.

Then that should be okay. There are different versions of Motorola vehicle adapter charger though, so not everyone of them are compatible. There's one that is for standard charging and one that is Rapid Charging (which cost more than the latter).

I used to swear by OEM, then I got insurance. Now I do not care, lol.

it has been reported that non OEM chargers will surge on you frying the port or the battery when the car starts or shuts off.

Ahhhh, after summing up the total cost and the price they cover on your mobile device -- Not really practical keeping insurance. At least to me, it would be a wise decision to save that amount for a replacement and less trouble too.

My rule of thumb have insurance for first year after which the cost of insurance and deductible vs a retail price kind of levels out.

As far as chargers buy a cheap one and then buy a premium and take them apart you will see the difference.

as stated in another post the power flow to the charger port in the car is inconsistent (not regulated) premium car charger have the electronic components to smooth out and insure a steady and smooth power flow to the phone where the cheap one at best have a fuse which in theory will protect your phone but they dont always work! first hand experience here.

Wirelessly posted (8830: BlackBerry8830/4.2.2 Profile/MIDP-2.0 Configuration/CLDC-1.1 VendorID/104)

Hmmm. My phone retails at $550. Insurance even for two years (and I never keep a phone that long) is $7/ month + $50 deductible means max cost of $218 if I file a claim the 24th month I have it. Since I work outside frequently, thus exposing my device to hazards, and since $218 is much less than $550, I carry the insurance.

Yeah, that is $168 over two years that I have wasted if I never file a claim, but that's how all insurance works. Saving the $7/mo would get me a new blackberry in about 4-5 years at that rate.

Good info there Z.

I was looking at these OEM BlackBerry Vehicle Adapter Chargers, and thinking, when the new Curve for Tmo is going to be released (hopefully soon), I can thrown this OEM chargers for free when they purchase one accessory.

I wonder if the charger I bought from Sprint (comes with dual cig lighter and regular outlet plug) is cheap or like-OEM? I vote for cheap, knowing Sprint.

I'd go with "better judgement"

But seriously, I would say, go with something that's got warranty. The good thing about it, if it has issues and not functioning perfectly, you can always bring it back and ask for a replacement or refund. I always check what is covered and for how long. There are sellers who put their products or accessories on these carwashes, seen quite a few of those -- those do not have warranty. Bottom line, always check and use better judgement.

And this rule does not only apply to buying car adapter chargers, but all accessories for that matter from a retailer or e-tailer, always ask about the warranty on the product. Knowing how to contact and or how to go about replacement is a good information to have.

So it's alright to use a motorola charger with the BB? I Have an 8703e for reference.

I had a razr so I already have a car charger and multiple wall chargers for it. The guy at the cellular store said that they use different pins to charge, so I shouldn't use it. Is this true or is he full of it?

If it has a USB plug it'll work just fine. I've not had any trouble. I use a motorola charger (came with my BT headset) to charge my 8100.

Awesome, thanks.

lol...$2.99 a month? How long would that take? Sheit!