RIM Blackberry Packs Punch

The 5810 shares a similar chassis with earlier models, yet packs in the electronics needed for GSM/GPRS cellular network communications. The Intellisync software included on the device allows the BlackBerry to synchronize with almost any PIM, including various versions of Microsoft Outlook, Lotus Notes and Novell GroupWise. One of those PIMs is necessary for full integration; RIM does not include a desktop PIM, unlike Palm and Handspring.

The software also offers advanced e-mail integration capabilities. The BlackBerry 5810 can easily coexist with enterprise e-mail accounts and remotely administered POP3-based e-mail accounts. E-mail can be forwarded in two ways: via the BlackBerry Enterprise Server, which allows Microsoft Exchange or Lotus Domino to automate e-mail forwarding; or by installing Desktop Redirector software, which runs on the user's local PC and automates forwarding of POP3 e-mail.

SMB users with remotely hosted e-mail can opt for a Web-mail client (due this summer) that will forward mail from any POP3-compatible mail server.

The BlackBerry does fall short in a few areas. The docking cradle is only available as a serial port device; a USB version would be welcome. Engineers were also concerned with signal strength issues, as the unit lost network connectivity more frequently than expected.

Solution providers must partner with Voicestream or AT&T, as the unit is only available through these carriers for the U.S. market. The BlackBerry costs $499. Service prices vary.

RIM BLACKBERRY 5810
AVALIABILITY: Voicestream: Now; AT&T: near future
PRICES: (VoiceStream) MSRP $499.00
SERVICE: Email, SMS, WEP : Starts at 39.99 per month; Voice: Starts at 19.99 per month
E-MAIL: http://www.voicestream.com/blackberry/