BlackBerry For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) (Paperback)

by Robert Kao (Author), Dante Sarigumba (Author)
Key Phrases: application loader, enterprise server, dimension icon, Address Book, Desktop Manager, Getting Organized (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
The BlackBerry will never be as easy to use as a desktop computer, but a number of tricks can ease the difficulties its size imposes on users. The following were tested on a BlackBerry Curve, but many will work on other models, too. For help with some of these, we used "BlackBerry for Dummies" and frequently pinged Robert Kao, its co-author, for ideas. (Lee Gomes, On the Road, Wall Street Journal, March 31, 2008)

Product Description
What’s part PDA, part smartphone, and part media player? Your BlackBerry, naturally! Whether it’s the popular Pearl, the sleek Curve, or the hardworking 8800, your BlackBerry handheld device is loaded with features to make your life easier—if you can figure out how to use them.

BlackBerryFor Dummies,2^nd Edition comes to the rescue with just what you need to know to get the most from this amazing device.   It covers the newest BlackBerry models and all the latest developments, like SureType vs. QWERTY keyboards and the new trackball navigation method. You’ll discover how to set up your BlackBerry as a full-fledged PDA, but also how to use the camera, play music and videos, make phone calls, and know where you are with GPS. BlackBerryFor Dummies, 2^nd Edition shows you how to:

• Surf the Web and send and receive e-mail
• Keep your calendar, contacts, and to-do list
• Make your BlackBerry a mobile mini-office
• Sync data with your desktop
• Install a MicroSD card for extra memory
• Watch movies and listen to music
• Let your BlackBerry double as a laptop modem
• Protect your personal information
• Use your BlackBerry almost anywhere in the world

Because the BlackBerry world changes so quickly, BlackBerryFor Dummies, 2^nd Edition features a companion Web site that maintains the latest news and updates, so you’ll always be up to date. It’s a pretty sweet deal!

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Product Details

• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: For Dummies; 2 edition (October 22, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 047018079X
• ISBN-13: 978-0470180792
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.3 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.3 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 3.7 out of 5 stars See all reviews (12 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #349,031 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

42 of 43 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars I can see why people become addicted to these..., February 25, 2006

By	Thomas Duff "Duffbert" (Portland, OR United States) - See all my reviews (TOP 50 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This review is from: BlackBerry For Dummies (For Dummies (Computer/Tech)) (Paperback)

Seems like all the tech talk lately has been about the potential shutdown of RIM and the BlackBerry network. But it dawns on me that I really don't know *why* these devices have been dubbed "CrackBerry" by those addicted to them. After reading BlackBerry for Dummies by Robert Kao and Dante Sarigumba, I can see the appeal...

Contents:
Part 1 - Meet and Greet Your BlackBerry: Your BlackBerry is NOT an Edible Fruit?; Turning On Your BlackBerry (And Keeping It Happy)
Part 2 - Getting Organized with Your BlackBerry: Remembering Your Acquaintances; Never Miss Another Appointment - Ever!; Bring Your Own Taskmaster; Making Notes and Calculations
Part 3 - Getting Online with Your BlackBerry: You've Got (Lots of) E-Mail; Too Cool for E-Mail; Surfing the Internet Wave; Calling Your Favorite Person
Part 4 - Working with Desktop Manager: Synching the Intellisync Way; Installing Applications; Running Redirector; Protecting Your Information
Part 5 - The Part of Tens: Ten (Or So) New Features on the New Generation BlackBerry; Ten Great BlackBerry Accessories; Ten Productive BlackBerry Applications; Ten Fun Games on Your BlackBerry; Ten Must-Have BlackBerry Programs; Ten (More or Less) Web Site Categories for BlackBerry Browsing
Index

I can see how this book would appeal to both the prospective BlackBerry owner and someone who just opened the box and is wondering "what next?". The first part of the book does a nice job explaining the different types of BlackBerry devices and how they are all branded based on the network provider who is selling them. From then on, it's a matter of exploring all the different software options that come part and parcel with the device. You could almost look at this as the readable instruction manual for your new toy, because there's not much that's not covered here. I was especially surprised about how the PIN to PIN messaging occurs, and how it's potentially the most secure type of messaging you can find on the market today. Plus it continues to work when many other cellular services break down due to overload. All really good stuff here...

This is worth purchasing if you've just jumped into the BlackBerry field or if you've been handed one at work with little explanation on how to use it. A little time spent between you, this book, and your BlackBerry will make everyone a whole lot happier. I'm even considering making the switch now...

19 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

2.0 out of 5 stars Disappointed Dummy, January 11, 2008

By	James N. Mayfield - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

When I purchased my BlackBerry ("BB") 8830 and turned it on, I knew I was in trouble. The "Getting Started Guide" that comes with the 8830 is GROSSLY inadequate for first-time BB users. With the help of the staff at the Sprint Store (they were very helpful and friendly), I was able to get the basic functions going and use them. But, I knew that to maximize the use of my 8830 that I would have to find a way to better self-educate myself on how to setup and use my new BB.

Because I have used the "Dummies" books for several years with great success, I ordered this book. Unfortunately, this is the first really bad Dummies book I have ever used. Here are my reasons for this assessment.
1. The omissions (tethering, robust use of the internet, etc) are significant.
2. The book spends too much time on concepts that are fundamental and actually covered in the Getting Started Guide and too little time on the next level of sophistication that the average user will find helpful.
3. The instructions are often confusing, contain too few illustrations, and use descriptions with multiple meanings. (I have long believed that persons who write technical manuals come from a pool of US citizens who could greatly benefit from ESL training; this book proves the point!)

The more I learn about my new BB, the more convinced I am of its capabilities and how useful they will be in my daily life. But, my recommendation is to let the staff know at the store at which you purchase your BB that you will need help and get their commitment to spending more than a few minutes with you when it is delivered and for a couple of weeks thereafter.

Confessing incompetence and asking for help is a much better choice than buying this book.

5 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Age of Technology is upon us: Lets Embrace IT!, January 22, 2008

By	Igor M. (USA) - See all my reviews

You don't have to be a CEO of a start-up IT company to own a blackberry now-a-days. This technology has become very popular and affordable and this book is a great way to learn the product and experience the technological revolution that's happening now in front of us by puting powerful tools literally at the palm of your hand. The book breaks down the main concepts into simple steps and shows how to become an expert user. This is a great buy. Highly recommended to users of all levels.