For a BlackBerry at IU, what software do I need and where do I get it?
A BlackBerry must have an installed operating system; this is called the device software.
Though it's optional if you are using the BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES), UITS recommends that you also install the BlackBerry Desktop Software (Windows only) on the same computer you use to read your Exchange mail using Outlook. You can then use the Desktop Software to load new versions of the device's operating system and to complete backups; it can also help with troubleshooting, and to activate devices unable to do so wirelessly.
If you use the Desktop Redirector (see What is a BlackBerry, and how does it work?), you need the Desktop Software for proper functionality.
Note: PocketMac for BlackBerry is a limited functioning Macintosh client you can use to sync Entourage or MacMail with your BlackBerry. For installation instructions, see At IU, how can I use my BlackBerry with a Mac? Software PC emulators for either Macintosh or Linux operating systems may not connect properly with a BlackBerry's cradle.
On this page:
Desktop software
- Visit IUware Online at: http://iuware.indiana.edu/
- In the Windows area, click
Communication. ClickBlackBerry Desktop Software, and then click the link for the appropriate BlackBerry Desktop Manager software.
- Click
Login, and authenticate using your Network ID credentials. Follow the download prompts.
- To begin installation, locate and double-click the
rimxxxx.exefile. When the InstallShield Wizard for Desktop Software appears, clickNext.
- Select
USA (English)for theCountry or Region Selection, and clickNext. Accept the license agreement, and clickNext.
- In the Customer Information screen, enter the username and the
company name you wish to associate with the software. This is for
licensing purposes only; you don't need to enter your IU username.
- For the "Install this application:" setting, choose the option to
allow use for anyone using the computer.
- In the Choose Destination Location screen, the default
installation location is usually acceptable. (If you wish to change
this setting, click
Browse...and select a different folder.) ClickNext.
- The Setup Type screen will appear. The default selection is the
recommended installation type. Click
Next.
- The Email Integration Options screen will appear. If you are using
the IU BES Redirection service, select
BlackBerry Enterprise Server or BlackBerry Desktop Redirector, and clickNext.
- In the Choose Email System screen, select
Microsoft Exchange (typically used with Microsoft Outlook client)and clickNext.
- The Message Redirection screen will appear. If you are using the
university BES service, select
Redirect messages using the BlackBerry Enterprise Server, and clickNext.
- In the Shortcut Installation Options screen, check the boxes if
you want Desktop Software to start every time you start your computer,
and if you want a shortcut on your desktop. Click
Next.
- The Ready to Install the Program screen will appear. Click
Install.
- When the InstallShield Wizard Complete screen appears, you have
the options of starting the Desktop Software and of reading the "read
me" file; both boxes are checked by default. Click
Finishto complete the installation.
To configure your software:
- Ensure the BlackBerry is in the cradle, and the cradle is
connected to the computer.
- Desktop Software will launch when the installation is complete.
If it detects the device on the cradle, you will be prompted to move
the mouse randomly to generate a new encryption key. If not,
continue.
- From the
Optionsmenu, selectConnection Settings....
- Click
Detect. A warning will appear that says "Please ensure that the handheld is connected properly". ClickOK.
- A message should appear saying the handheld device was found at a
COM port. For example, if the cradle is plugged into the first serial
port, the message will read "Handheld found at COM1". If the cradle is
plugged into the USB port, the message will say "USB"
instead of "COM1". If there is a problem with either the cradle or the
port it is plugged into, the message will read "Handheld not
found". If possible, switch ports and try again. If the "not found"
message keeps appearing, don't go further. You will have to determine
whether the cradle or the serial or USB ports on your computer are at
fault before continuing.
- Click
OK, and then close the Desktop Software.
Device software
To take full advantage of the features offered in the BlackBerry
Enterprise Server (BES) environment, your device should have the
latest software. To find the version you are running, on your
BlackBerry, go to Options and then choose About from the
Options menu.
- To install or upgrade the device software on your BlackBerry,
begin by downloading the software from your service provider. Click
the appropriate link below and follow the prompts:
- Begin the installation by connecting your BlackBerry to
your computer via the cradle or USB.
- From your computer, open the desktop software.
- If the
Application Updates Availablewindow appears, clickUpdate Now; if not, double-click theApplication Loadericon. The Application Loader Wizard will appear.
- Enter your device password, if you have one, and then click
Next. The Device Application Selection screen will appear. Applications selected here will be loaded onto your BlackBerry device.
- Click
Next. The Completing the Application Wizard screen will appear, displaying all the software that will be loaded to your BlackBerry device.
- Click
Finish, and the software will load. Do not disconnect your device until the process is complete.
Also see:
- What can I do to make my BlackBerry more secure?
- With a BlackBerry, how do I reconcile my email, calendar, and other data?
- Getting started with a BlackBerry at IU
- With the BlackBerry handheld, how do I wirelessly add or remove applications?
Last modified on September 11, 2008.






