Testing mobile web sites with a BlackBerry and no carrier plan
 

I'm hoping someone here can help solve an issue and settle an argument. Thanks in advance.

background: I build mobile web sites. No native apps. Just clean web sites that are designed for mobile. I'd like to test a particular site on the same phone the client uses, the Torch 9800.

I'd like to believe that its possible to obtain a phone for testing purposes that:

1. has wifi capabilities
2. has no carrier plan and hence, no data plan
3. simply connects to the office wifi and can see my development sites address.

i already have a localhost web server running that allows my Droid to connect to the dev site via a shared network connect.

Is it necessary for a BB (say...one thats purchased as unlocked off eBay) to have a carrier plan in order for the wifi to work?

Re: Testing mobile web sites with a BlackBerry and no carrier plan
 

Depends on the carrier. Some will provide the handheld with the necessary service books pre-installed on them. Some won't.

You might want to look into using the BlackBerry Device Simulator and save yourself some $$.
You should be able to get it in the BlackBerry Developer section of RIM's website.

Re: Testing mobile web sites with a BlackBerry and no carrier plan
 

first, thanks for the quick reply.

We're already using the emulator for unit testing but I dont want to rely on them for 100% accurate rendering.

i'm hoping to avoid having the phone hooked up to any carrier at all. essentially dead with only the ability to connect to wifi.