The BlackBerry Enterprise Service (BES) will automatically synchronize your data between your Exchange mailbox and a BlackBerry device. This synchronization occurs for the email, calendar, contacts, notes, and tasks behind the scenes and does not require user interaction for the synchronization to occur.

What do you need to use a BlackBerry with the University of Idaho Exchange system?

First you will need a BlackBerry mobile device and cellular plan with BlackBerry Enterprise Service included with the plan. The most popular vendors in the Moscow area with BlackBerry availability are AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon. You must mention to the vendor you will be connecting to a BES server. Most plans will charge an additional fee for the BlackBerry service in addition to your voice plan.

Next you will need to request a BlackBerry Enterprise Service (BES) account at the University of Idaho. This request can be made through the Help Desk. You will need to supply your name, phone number, email address, budget, and the cellular vendor for the account to be created. You will be charged a $100 activation fee and a monthly charge of $37.50 for the BES connection.

NOTE: Please refer the new University of Idaho cellular policy before making any agreements with the cell vendors.

NOTE: The cellular fees and connections are supported by the cell vendors. The University of Idaho supports the BES and the synchronization between Exchange and the BES.

Can I setup my BlackBerry to sync with Outlook and not use the BES service?

Yes, it is possible to setup Outlook to sync using the 'Desktop Redirector'.  We only offer assistance for this setup through our OnSite services group (they charge an hourly rate).  Please contact the ITS Help Desk to request an appointment.

If I only want to sync my e-mail is there another option besides BES and Outlook?

Yes, most providers have a service called BlackBerry Internet Services (BIS) where you can connect via POP/IMAP/OWA to your e-mail.  This is e-mail only, it will not sync your calendar, contacts, notes and other data.  You will want to contact your provider to find out what services are offered through BIS.