"Ask TASC"—About BlackBerry
TASC receives many calls each day from customers who are experiencing similar problems. In each issue of Interface, we pass on the answers to questions customers frequently ask. We hope you find this information helpful.
Q: What is a BlackBerry?
A: The BlackBerry is a handheld "personal digital assistant" that provides users with the ability to send/receive wireless e-mail in "real time." Imagine being able to check and respond to your e-mail from remote locations without having to plug in your laptop or find a computer somewhere with an Internet connection.
BlackBerry also allows a user to remotely access and manage Contacts, Calendars, Tasks, and Notes as well. The unique feature of the Calendar service is that it is also synchronized wirelessly like e-mail, so additions and deletions to your schedule are updated in "real time." There are two sizes of BlackBerry handheld devices—smaller, pager-sized devices (models 850/950) and larger, palm-sized devices (models 857/957/5810).
Q: What do I need to have before considering using a BlackBerry?
A: NIH BlackBerry users will need to have an MS Exchange e-mail account to utilize the BlackBerry Service. Ask your mail administrator if you are not sure what kind of account you have.
Q: Can I use BlackBerry with my Macintosh computer?
A: The answer is yes and no. While there is no desktop software at present designed for a Mac operating system, Mac users can work around this by creating an initial setup of their handheld on a PC, synchronizing the device, and then periodically recharging (957 model only) by connecting to the PC. We recommend that you first consult with your local technicians before attempting to setup this configuration.
Q: Can I read e-mail attachments on the BlackBerry handheld?
A: Yes. Forward the e-mail with the attachment to text@nih.gov and then the attachment will be converted to text and sent back to your handheld. Among the attachment file formats that can be converted are Word, Excel, PDF, WordPerfect, and Web pages.
Q: Can I get my e-mail on my handheld anywhere?
A: A BlackBerry is similar to a cell phone in that there are good and bad cell areas depending on the wireless network's coverage area. The BlackBerry Web site provides a link to the wireless network’s coverage maps to help you if you plan to use the device out of town.
Q: Speaking of cell phones, can my BlackBerry receive phone calls?
A: The newest model of the BlackBerry handheld (model #5810) does have cell phone capability. Please be aware that this technology is brand new and has different functionality issues that should be addressed before considering its use. We recommend writing an e-mail inquiry to sanswire@mail.nih.gov before making a decision on whether or not the 5810 model is right for you.
Q: Does NIH host a Web site for information on the NIH BlackBerry service?
A: Yes. The NIH Central Email Service (CES)—which hosts the NIH CES Blackberry Service—provides an excellent Web site providing FAQs, tips, links to software downloads, and other detailed information. Go to the CES Web page and click on the link for "Wireless Services."
See the article, "Safe in the Palm (Pilot) of Your Hand—Advice on Securing Portable Systems," in Interface 222 (March 4, 2002).
If you have any questions please call TASC at (301) 594-6248, and a consultant will be happy to help you.
We welcome your ideas about topics in future editions of "Ask TASC." Please send suggestions to TASC@mail.nih.gov.
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