BlackBerry® All-in-One For Dummies®

Chapter 4. Connectivity Options

In This Chapter

• Wireless carrier connection modes explained

• Connecting with Wi-Fi

• Tethering your BlackBerry to your laptop

It all starts here. You can have the newest, biggest, fastest BlackBerry smartphone on the market, but it's practically useless if it doesn't have a wireless data connection. A wireless data connection is required for you to send and receive e-mail, SMS text and PIN-to-PIN messages, browse the Web, and utilize features in most of the third-party applications available today. If you have ever shopped for a cellphone, you have probably heard terms like GSM, 3G, CDMA, and EV-DO. There are so many acronyms out there that it's easy to get overwhelmed.

Fear not! In this chapter, we discuss the various wireless carrier connection modes, what they mean, and how fast they are. We also delve into the world of Wi-Fi connectivity. Finally, we show you how to tether your BlackBerry to your PC as a modem using a USB cable or Bluetooth.

Choosing a Wireless Carrier Connection Mode

Note

If you purchase a data plan, you do not have a choice on the type of service. The connection modes available on your BlackBerry vary based on the model you have and the wireless carrier that you purchase your monthly data plan through. Regardless of which carrier you have, your connection mode is classified under one of two technologies: Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA).

Tables 4-1 and 4-2 give you an at-a-glance view ...