BlackBerry PDAs

Find the best coverage from providers of BlackBerry PDAs Since most people spend their time divided between their office, their home, and driving between the two, it makes sense to choose from those BlackBerry PDA suppliers that offer full signal strength when you're in these areas. You don't want to waste your time with a BlackBerry that doesn't get a signal and drops your calls.

I recommend:  Review coverage maps for the major carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, Alltel and Sprint. If you travel extensively, make sure that the places you travel to most often have the coverage you need in order to effectively do business.

Compare network technologies of BlackBerry PDA providers You'll also need to consider the technology various BlackBerry PDA suppliers will use to connect your device to their networks. Is it GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications, the leading technology for cellular communication worldwide) or CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access, i.e., doesn't use a SIM card)? Both offer comparable reliability and service. Whichever one you choose, all of the BlackBerry PDA suppliers now offer some very cool BlackBerry PDAs, so chances are you'll be fine.

I recommend:  Phones that use the CDMA network are best if you often have data-heavy attachments, because such models use the high-speed EV-DO network from Sprint Nextel or Verizon. The slower, GSM-based EDGE network used by T-Mobile and AT&T is best suited for e-mail with small attachments or light-duty Web surfing, though AT&T also has a higher-speed data network called HSDPA. Or, if you're a worldwide traveler (and have some cash to burn), consider the BlackBerry 8830 World Edition, an unusual smartphone that supports both CDMA and GSM cellular-wireless networks.

The best-laid BlackBerry PDA plans Finally, all BlackBerry PDAs depend on a network that needs both a regular phone plan and a data plan. Spend some time at each carrier's site (or store) comparing plans.

I recommend:  All the carriers offer combined monthly plans for a two-year contract. But your bill can quickly run up if you add minutes, text messages, and other services. T-Mobile lists their plans on their website without having to input a zip code. Sprint has offered an all-inclusive plan - unlimited everything for low rates. Whatever your needs, estimate the minutes, data and text messages you believe you’ll need each month, then add 15 – 30%. That will give you a good idea of how much you'll actually spend.