Hardware
Do you support handheld devices?
BSDIS provides basic configuration support for mobile devices that are able to sync directly with Microsoft Exchange, the divisional email and calendaring platform.
BSDIS will assist customers with configuring compatible devices to connect to their BSD email or calendar. Other problems (i.e. with internet connectivity or device issues) will be referred to the vendor.
Please note that devices and the software they run on change constantly, which makes the devices difficult to support. BSDIS will provide basic configuration support for the devices on a "best effort" basis.
So with all this being said, what does BSDIS recommend?
BSDIS has had great success with the T-Mobile MDA with an unlimited GPRS data package. For this reason, it is the preferred PDA setup for the BSD. (Another compatible device is the Cingular 8525.)
Overall, any device running Windows Mobile 5 or 6 should be compatible with the BSD email system, enabling people to connect directly and pull down mail and calendar data without having to constantly sync with a desktop.
The Blackberry is not currently in the supported category, largely due to the costs required to make them secure and fully functional in an enterprise environment. The Blackberry has also traditionally required third party software to connect to Exchange, often requiring the user to leave their desktop mail client on at all times.
The emergence of the new devices like the MDA, however, mean that customers no longer have to buy a Blackberry to stay "always connected".
Related Items
PDA settings for BSD Exchange
1. Decide how you will use your device (phone? email? web access?) Consult with BSDIS before you buy to make sure your device is supported.
2. Select a Windows Mobile 5 device from your preferred carrier (i.e. T-Mobile, Cingular).
3. Select a data plan You will need a data plan to sync your mail & calendar; we recommend the Unlimited GPRS data plan from T-Mobile.
4. When your device arrrives, call the Service Desk to arrange a technician visit to set up your supported device, or check out our FAQ.
The University of Chicago ... 6030 S. Ellis Ave
773-702-3456 help@bsd.uchicago.edu