[robhermans]

Hi:
I have been writing in Visual Studio for a while and writing apps for WM5 PDAs. I am intrigued by the BB and think there is a market for BB developers, administrators etc. I'd like to get started. I have read that the emulators are just ok - that you need a real Blackberry ... budget is a little limited - I can buy an unlocked 8700 for $150 versus $350 from my carrier for the latest and greatest. My questions therefore:

1). Will the 8700 serve as a development base?
2). What's the best way to get started in BB development
3). Should I set up a windows server and get into BES?
4). Any other helpful thoughts would be appreciated!

Many Thanks
Rob Hermans
Philly

[pfowler]

It's tough to say where to start but here are a few thoughts late on a Friday afternoon:
1. I'm assuming you're talking about Java Development. Do you know Java? Check out This Link at RIM for your options.
2. Simulator development isn't great, but it's not unusable either. If you're just starting out, it lets you get your feet wet without having to lay out any capital.
3. Once you know what you're getting into, get the Signing Keys from RIM ($99) and a device.
4. Getting a BES is something that depends on the investment you're putting in as well as what type of apps you're developing. Avoid it if you can

Enjoy,
Pat

[Dougsg38p]

Signing keys are $20.

BlackBerry - Java Code Signing Keys

[pfowler]

I'd forgotten that they had lowered the price. They were $100 a year and a half ago

[robhermans]

Thanks for the help Pat - I'll be back !!
Cheers
Rob

[chrisbc]

In my experience the 8700 is a poor development base. Many of the 8700s out there have old OSes (4.1) so a some APIs are not available. You may not be able to compile some of the more interesting code sample out there.

Also, the trackwheel is no longer in use and the trackball changes things a bit, from a development perspective and otherwise.

If you can get a more recent device (Curve, Bold, etc.) I would go for that instead. Well worth the money imo.