Use your BlackBerry Pearl as a Bluetooth Modem under OS X

This is great. I was wondering if Ross was going to be able to do this, I guess at least it looks like he helped get this going. Thanks a lot for this. If only BT syncing now...

Yep, Ross' work was definitely the foundation for this. Glad it worked for you.

Why is it possible to use the 8100 under OSX yet the 8700 you can't? Is there more bluetooth functionality in the 8100??

tony b, that's exactly the problem. The 8100 exposes an additional Dial-Up Networking (DUN) profile that the 8700 doesn't. It's not in the list of profiles the 8100 claims to export, but the Mac bluetooth code recognizes the 8100 as DUN-capable; not so the 8700.

Thanks a lot! This is awesome! I hope you can get it to work at even faster speeds.

Thanks again!

This script works even on the Macbook Pro. Seems a little slow, but this may be T-Mobile.

I have a 13" macbook and it keeps when I try and connect it keeps telling me the connection failed. Please verify your settings and try again. I'm pretty sure everything is fine can anyone help.

bkearns, would you mind posting your speed results from the Speakeasy speed test linked in the post?

Chris, can you try the following on your phone:

* open Options, Advanced Options, TCP
* Set the APN option to 'wap.voicestream.com'
* set the Username for APN to 'wap'

These are the settings I have on my phone - I don't believe they affect the modem script one way or the other, but it's worth a try. Post your results here, and if it doesn't work drop me an email and we'll try to figure it out.

Working nicely on my 13.3 MB, speed tests not great, particularly upload maxing at 11kbit, but browsing was alright.

Hopefully you can get some improvement in on upload, otherwise, very nice.

Hey, great script... Speed Test 216 today!!

mine seems to get stuck on establishing connection. i have wap.voicestream.com as my phone number and the other configs setup...any ideas?

just tested and got 213 down...

I've been trying to get this to work, to no avail. I keep getting "A modem error occurred." I've tried the user/pass of guest/guest and wap/(null) both on the device (in Options, Adv Options, TCP) and in the Internet Connect settings. Ideas?

Strike that! Got it workin'! Thanks SO much! This is fantastic. Speakeasy: 160/8 :)

I get an error "A modem error occurred. Please verify your settings and try again," just like Marc, but I can't get it to work. Marc, what did you do differently?

I get the an error "A modem error ocurred" I can't get it to work! any suggestions? Marc, how did you get it to work?

Do you have to create a modem script or just download it off this website? I have never created a modem script and the only thing I can think of is right-click the click here and save file to desktop option. When I did that it saved a file as a .txt file and not a modem script. Any help would be appreciated.

Maybe step by step for beginers. Thanks.

Hi Rob,

You can just download the script from the post above - you don't have to create your own modem script. Modem Scripts are really text files, so it's not surprising your browser wants to save it as one. You can rename the file you downloaded by removing the .txt (So it's named "BlackBerry 8100"). After that, the directions above should be enough to get you going. If not, post here again and I'll see what I can do.

Hi jordan,

Sorry, but I'm not sure how Marc solved his problem - Marc, if you're still reading this please publish how you solved your problem and a bit about your Mac if you don't mind - I'm sure others would appreciate it.

Thank you very much Grant for your advice. Once I solved the modem script issue it was pretty easy to get online via my bluetooth BB Pearl.

Once again thanks a million.

This works beautifully!

For certain applications, this will be a lifesaver. I'm getting 149 down and, well, about 4 up. I can't wait to see a new script that improves

Hi - here's how I got it to work:
- clicked the link to the script, and displayed it in the browser
- Did a "Select All", and copied it to BBEdit
- Saved the resulting file as "Blackberry 8100"
- Then did the steps as described above (from #2 on).

Let me know if this works.

Okay, i did everything posted in the directions, and read all the subsequent posts and followed those instructions. Still getting the modem error asking for a change in settings.

I have a 15" powerbook running 10.4.7

I opened another modem script, then hit apple + N to create a new blank one. Pasted teh script from your site, and then removed the .txt So i've pretty much done everything i can think of. If there is a way to get this working I'd be so grateful.

email me direct at: kaisersoze277@hotmail.com

Thanks

Works nicely. Thank you!

Occasionally have difficulty disconnecting. It just keeps trying to disconnect for mintues until it finally times out, but everything else works great. Running 10.3.9 on PowerBook G4.

With bad reception...
45 down/20 up via LinkLine (in Firefox on Mac).
29 down/7 up via mspeed (on Blackberry as control).

Thanks for the script. I tested and am getting 145 download. Now if I could only sync my address book... :-)

Is there a way to transfer bluetooth profiles from one blackberry to another, as it is highly likely that they are using the same bluetooth module in both the 8100 and 8700. If we could do this, then theoretically it would work...

I am having trouble, the modem will intermittently disconnect. I am unsure if this is a computer issue or a setting on the Pearl. Any Ideas?

To those having random disconnection problems: I don't believe the Pearl has the best RF reception in the world. I've had two or three bars and still watched calls go straight to voicemail, so I'm guessing any disconnection issues you're having would be more related to signal strength than anything.

Still, I'm working on adding back in some of the features I hacked out to get things working - I should have a new version by the end of the week.

dude, good work. you rock

I'm trying to find bluetooth modem script for my BlackBerry 8700g for my G4 Powerbook OS 10.4.7. Are there any out there?

Hey Grant,

Is there any chance of a modem script like this working for a BlackBerry 7130? Or maybe generalize it by saying a "non-Pearl" model?

Sadly, this script will only work with the Pearl. All other BlackBerry models (to my knowledge) lack the standard Bluetooth Dial-Up Networking (DUN) profile that allows this script to work.

Sorry, but the instructions aren't making sense :(

Step 4:
"Make sure ‘Access the Internet with your phone’s data connection’ is checked. Also, make sure ‘Use a direct, higher speed connection’ is selected. Click Continue."

I am using 10.4.7 and don't have the "Use a direct, higher speed connection" option.

Step 5:
"In the Modem Script pulldown on the following screen, Select ‘BlackBerry 8100’. Use the following settings for the other fields, then click Continue:
Username, Password: leave blank
GPRS CID: *99***1#"

I don't have the GPRS CID option. I have "Phone Number"

I tried Grant's configuration of the Pearl Advanced Options. Still getting an error: "Could not open communication device" and "A Bluetooth serial failure has occured. Failed to open an RFCOMM serial channel. Check if authentication needs to be enabled in your device."

Any thoughts? Thanks!

Hi Rock,

So, your Bluetooth phone setup should look like this: image

If it doesn't, then something unusual has gone wrong - I'd try deleting all pairing information between the two on both devices and starting over.

That did it! Sorry, I had to start over after deleting the pairing on both the powerbook and pearl. All is well. Thanks a lot, Grant. You're awesome.

I keep downloading a .txt file.

How do I download it as a script.

Awesome info, thanks! Worked perfectly.

This worked without a problem. Thanks alot for posting this!

I have a blackberry 7250 - verizon...impossible to connect to the internet via MAC OS X...will this script work for me to connect via usb? I want to connect via bluetooth, but am not sure it works, right now i use bootcamp and run my 7250 blackberry modem on windows...sucks...any help? please let me know, i would appreciate it -- jonaquino@gmail.com

this is awesome,
it worked on the first go with my MBP
thanks

hi, thanks a ton!!

this worked without a problem at all!!

JON A,

Sorry, but this script won't work with the 7250.

What is the APN for T-mobile? Also, do I leave the Username and Password blank? When I try to connect, it keeps going on "connecting... connecting .." and nothing happens. Does anyone know how to solve that?

T-Mobile's APN is wap.voicestream.com. In Internet Connect you need to type something in the username and password fields, but it doesn't matter what - I use 'guest' for both.

OMG!! it actually works!!!!!! Thanks Grant (and all others) for the help. I am going to try the other script that is mentioned. The Speed is about 140 kbs which is not fast but I can connect to the net from almost anywhere.

My MacBook won't connect, it disconnects after authenticating user... here is the log, can someone help??

Sun Oct 1 18:46:43 2006 : Connecting via BlackBerry 8100.
Sun Oct 1 18:46:43 2006 : Making EDGE connection.
Sun Oct 1 18:46:47 2006 : Serial connection established.
Sun Oct 1 18:46:47 2006 : Using interface ppp0
Sun Oct 1 18:46:47 2006 : Connect: ppp0 /dev/cu.Bluetooth-Modem
Sun Oct 1 18:46:48 2006 : Remote message: guest
Sun Oct 1 18:46:48 2006 : PAP authentication succeeded
Sun Oct 1 18:46:49 2006 : LCP terminated by peer
Sun Oct 1 18:46:52 2006 : Connection terminated.
Sun Oct 1 18:46:57 2006 : Serial link disconnected.

You rock -> thank you so much for posting this script! I used my Nokia 3650 as a bluetooth modem for years on the bus and train and was bummed I couldn't use the Pearl. But thanks to you it works like a charm. Now please figure out a way we can sync address books!

You rock -> thank you so much for posting this script! I used my Nokia 3650 as a bluetooth modem for years on the bus and train and was bummed I couldn't use the Pearl. But thanks to you it works like a charm. Now please figure out a way we can sync address books!

Using Powerbook with 10.4.7, everything seems to work fine....

Mon Oct 2 15:08:39 2006 : Connecting via BlackBerry 8100.
Mon Oct 2 15:08:39 2006 : Making EDGE connection.
Mon Oct 2 15:08:42 2006 : Serial connection established.
Mon Oct 2 15:08:42 2006 : Using interface ppp0
Mon Oct 2 15:08:42 2006 : Connect: ppp0 /dev/cu.Bluetooth-Modem
Mon Oct 2 15:08:43 2006 : Remote message: guest
Mon Oct 2 15:08:43 2006 : PAP authentication succeeded
Mon Oct 2 15:08:46 2006 : local IP address 10.186.220.102
Mon Oct 2 15:08:46 2006 : remote IP address 10.0.0.2
Mon Oct 2 15:08:46 2006 : primary DNS address 66.94.25.120
Mon Oct 2 15:08:46 2006 : secondary DNS address 66.94.9.120

then i get...

Mon Oct 2 15:09:53 2006 : No response to 4 echo-requests
Mon Oct 2 15:09:53 2006 : Serial link appears to be disconnected.
Mon Oct 2 15:09:53 2006 : Connection terminated.
Mon Oct 2 15:09:53 2006 : Connect time 1.2 minutes.
Mon Oct 2 15:09:53 2006 : Sent 1707 bytes, received 610 bytes.
Mon Oct 2 15:09:59 2006 : Serial link disconnected.

what gives?

Brant - your problem sounds like T-Mobile's PPP server isn't assigning you an IP address. Are you on the BlackBerry Unlimited data plan?

Chuck - that sounds like a signal strength or cell congestion issue, as LCP Ping packets aren't sent by my script, but by the Mac PPP stack. If LCP Ping packets are being sent, the connect script has already done its work.

Hey Grant,

Yes I have the unlimited data plan! Is that ok? I thought it should be...

Yes,that's the data plan you need - this wouldn't work if you have the $5.99 T-Zones package. On your BlackBerry, under Options -> Advanced Options -> TCP, what settings do you have?

Well, I must say this thing worked like a charm on my 2.0ghz MacBook. Thanks!!

says:
APN: wap.voicestream.com
Username for APN: wap
Password for APN: (it's blank)

Is that right?

Well I was putting the *99***1# in the phone number field.. put in the wap.voicestream.com and it works.. sorry to be such a noob...

Jeez...

Yep, those are correct. If you open System Preferences and select Bluetooth, you should see a 'Devices' tab at the top of the window. Highlight your Blackberry in the list at the top and click the 'Edit Serial Ports' button. You should see two serial ports listed, one of which will have a Device Service of Dialup Networking. click on that one and let me know what the settings at the bottom of the window are for that port.

Glad you got it worked out, Brant! Thanks for posting the solution.

This maybe the dumbest question yet but how do I pair my mac with my 8100? I've been able to sync my 8700 with my mac in the past but my mac can't find my 8100. Any ideas?

My connection works great, but after a minute or so it disconnects saying "the connection was terminated because the other side is not responding" but I think I've down everything on my blackberry necessary.

Kurt - The 8100 has Discoverable set to off by default. You can either turn it on under Options -> Bluetooth (press the menu keey and select Options again once you're in the Bluetooth menu), or you can initiate pairing from your Pearl rather than from your Mac. Check to make sure your mac is discoverable too (System Preferences -> Bluetooth).

Kelly - double check the text fields in Internet Connect and make sure you're in an area with decent coverage. If you're staying connected for almost a minute, it's likely the problem is with signal strength and not with your Bluetooth connection with your 8100.

One down. Thanks, Grant. My new problem is that when I try to save to the script editor I get a msg, "Syntax Error. An unknown token can't go after this some object".

Should I be creating a new folder for this script or is there already a modem folder? I don't see one in my Library.

Kurt - the file you're downloading is a simple text file, not an Applescript. You'll want to save it to your desktop when you download it.

Once you've got it, rename it to 'BlackBerry 8100' (no extension) and copy it into the '/Library/Modem Scripts' folder, which should definitely already exist - use Finder to browse the root folder of your hard drive and look for a Library folder there. There's also a Library folder in your Home folder, which isn't the right one and won't have a 'Modem Scripts' folder in it.

Phew! Hope that's clear. :)

This might be a stupid question but here goes:
I've heard that the speeds over a USB connection are much better than bluetooth, is there anyway to connect to the internet via blackberry over USB with OSX?

Grant, you rock, and thanks in advance for writing the bluetooth script in the first place.

- Andrew

Andrew - I don't know of any way to connect to your BlackBerry 8100 via USB and use it as a modem. However, I wouldn't worry about it - both Bluetooth and USB have far more bandwidth than the paltry 228kbit/sec your Pearl's EDGE connection is capable of, so you won't see any better speeds with USB than you would with Bluetooth.

Glad you found the script useful. :)

I'm experiencing the same issue as Chuck... Chuck, did you manage to find a solution?

Grant, you are a saint. Everything is working great now. I appreciate all your help. Thanks!

My setup connects, however, the Internet Connect dialog that subsequently shows speed transfers never shows any activity and after about 30 seconds, I get "The connection was terminated because the other side is not responding. Please try again."

Also, on my macbook, in Bluetooth tcp/ip, I get an ip address and a router address that are not on the same subnet. I don't get any subnet mask.

I have a full EDGE signal. Does anyone suspect my settings or is it on the t-mobile side? (I've been signed up with unlimited for 2 months w/ my 8700g.)

Grant, Nick,
I was able to get it to work. After your log displays your ip and dns addresses, go to a website on your phones browser. I just used Google. After you've successfully loaded the page on your phones browser, you should be able to access any page from your computers browser. I'm not sure why this works.

OT- AIM isn't connecting successfully on my computer using this method. Anyone have any idea why?

Chuck - Wow, that's bizarre. I can't think of any reason why using the phone's browser would make a difference, but I'm glad you found a workaround that works for you. I haven't been able to reproduce this, but if I can make it happen I'll see what I can do.

jm - try Chuck's workaround and see if it helps. Let me know if it does. The IP address and router address are on different subnets for me as well - I usually get 10.0.0.2 as my router, and everything works fine. I assume that T-Mobile's just using a very inclusive subnet mask, but I haven't run ifconfig while connected to confirm that.

Grant, Chuck,

Chuck's workaround does work. I'm stumped. This is like popping the clutch, I guess.

After the first try, I haven't had to use the phone again. Posting this from the connection. Thanks all!

Justin

P.S. iChat works just fine for me.

What about Cingular? I unlocked my phone. The wap.voicestream.com wont work for me!

Hey,

Does this work with the BlackBerry 8707 (3G) phones? I'm trying to get it to work on my ibook G4 and have not had any sucess.

Could someone help me out:

email: rcraig@fsegura.com

cheers,

rob

Still no go... I have tried every conceivable combination of addresses and Chuck's kickstart approach... Could it be that T-Mobile has my account incorrectly configured? If I call and ask for the APN access point to be added, is there a particular or specific way to do so?

Thanks!

Tom - Sorry, but I don't know what cingular's APN is for data traffic. Their customer support should be able to help, or you could try the cingular forum at howardforums.com.

Robbo - Sorry, but this only works with the 8100.

Nick - It's possible your account isn't configured properly, but unlikely. Still, T-Mobile's data support might be able to help. Make sure you're on the BlackBerry Unlimited data plan at a minimum (the hotspot-enabled BlackBerry plan is fine too). T-Mobile hasn't been great about supporting Macs in the past, so if have access to a PC you might want to try using your pearl as a modem from that (using the USB cable) before calling . If you get a similar problem on the PC, T-Mobile will better understand the error messages from there than from a Mac.

Hey Grant,

Any chance you can write a mod to get it to work with a 8707v via a USB cable and maybe some software like PocketMac??

Its got a modem too builtin. I have got it working under Windows XP no problems but not on my OSX :(

Robbo - Sorry, but I've actually done some exploratory work with an 8700 owner. No dice. The 8700 needs a real USB driver to be written for it, which is well outside my experience.

Im definetly a noob. I still am having trouble connecting. Downloaded the script. Saved it to my desktop. Renamed it to "blackberry pearl 8100" no extention. Then i cant quite figure out how to paste it in the modem script file. Is it as simple as click and drag in? I did that, and i still can not get it to connect. What am i doing wrong?

I've followed all of the steps here to no avail. I seem to be getting a response from DNS (as in, I can ping Google and get an IP address, but I have 100% packet loss), but it's not letting me get onto any websites.

Addidionally, I have edited the TCP settings in my Pearl to point to wap.voicestream.com (wap/blank). As well as opened the bluetooth section of my network settings, gone into PPP settings, and unchecked "send PPP echo packets" and "use tcp header compression" (which were the settings that allowed my co-worker to get online).

I've also noticed that although I'm getting a 10.x.x.x IP address, I'm not getting any kind of subnet mask. Router is 10.0.0.2, and as I mentioned earlier, DNS is returning an IP address for domain names that I ping (which means it's working), but I still cannot access websites or COMPLETE a ping request.

MacBook Pro running 10.4.8 with a BB Pearl with software version 4.2.

Thanks!!! YOur script was as easy as pie!!

Blake - once you've downloaded and renamed the file, you need to drag it into the /Library/Modem Scripts folder - at that point, you should be able to follow the rest of the setup instructions above. Once you've copied it into place, you'll still need to set up your phone via Bluetooth Preferences.

Ryan - I don't believe you should be getting a subnet mask. I believe T-Mobile is setting the subnet mask to 255.255.255.255 and explicitly specifying 10.0.0.2 as the gateway. Since you're able to resolve domain names, have you tried running traceroute to a host and seeing where it dies?

Hi Grant,

Thx so much for offering up all your help! I've tried everything on here, but when I go to Connect, the status will go from "Contacting PPP Server" to Disconnected, then (like many others) "A Modem Error has occured. Please verify your settings and try again."

I've got the script in my modems folder, and I went into the Pearl and set the TCP settings. Can you think of what might be holding me up?

Thx again!

AMAZING!! It works! Thanks Grant. I appreciate your help. Works like a charm

I figured it out. When you FIRST pair your phone, make sure that when your phone asks you if you want to accept incoming connections from your computer, say yes.

I had paired my phone a few days before I even thought about using it for this, and had selected "no" without even realizing it.

I nuked the pair from my computer AND my phone, and re-paired it. Voila! I'm online!

Worked like a charm. Using T-mobile I did not need the *99*** etc... All you need to do, at least in my experience, is have the wap.voicestream.com for the APN. Beyond that, great work on the modem script!

Anyone know who to make the Pearl function similarly under Windows XP? It only seems to pair with my laptop as a dial-up connection.

Billy - Your problem sounds similar to one others have been having - check out the thread in the Mac forum over at blackberryforums.com and see if your Connection Log (which you can view from the Window menu of Internet Connect) looks similar to the ones posted over there.

Tex - thanks for the tip. I'll try it without the dial string. Looking at the script now, it does appear to be redundant.

Windows XP - Sorry, no clue. Haven't used a Windows laptop in years. Other people seem to be able to do it - try the forums at pinstack.com or blackberryforums.com for more help.

Thanks! Worked great on both a MacBook and Intel iMac. Haven't tested it for more than a few minutes, but it seems fine.

Grant and everyone else, thanks a lot for this. I spent a few frustrating hours on this because I'm a newbie. In the end it turned out that I had simply failed to highlight the very first character in the modem script and was failing to connect because of it. However, in those hours of not knowing what was going on I was able to explore all the issues posted here and learn a whole lot about my mac that I never knew! : ) Now I'm testing at 216. Thanks again.

Grant, I have followed your steps. But the file saves on my desktop as a text file. And even after removing the extensions, the dialer tells me, the modem scrips does not exist, although it is configured. But all other scrips just show "document" as file type, not pure text document. What can I do?

Frank

Frank - The modem script is a text file. Removing the .txt extension is purely cosmetic. If you've copied the script into the /Library/Modem Scripts folder and it's still not showing up in the Modem Script list during the Bluetooth setup steps, you may need to restart your mac to make it appear. It's not clear when OS X decides to add new scripts to that list - sometimes they appear immediately after the file's copied into the right place, other times a restart is required.

Grant, many thanks. Redid ist once completely and works fine. Thanks. Blackberry Pearl and MacBook really dream team. Frank

Worked like magic! THANK YOU!!!!!!! VPN even works without issues.

Hi everyone!
I have problems with this I don't know where i have to put the script I copyed this and i make a new text folder and what next! What I have to do ! Do I have to send this to my phone(using the bluethoot)!!and what is MAC???
Can someone can tell me this in easy way step by step!!!
PLZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

Jim - if you're using Windows, this script won't work for you, sorry. If you're use an Apple computer running OS X, follow the directions in the original post and you should have no problems.

ok then ther is no way to do it!!!!!????????
What i have to do????????

Jim - head over to blackberryforums.com - they may be able to help you out.

Hey guys. I have a ibook osx 10.4.7 and im having some problems with my blackberry pearl. I have no problem getting it to sync with my mac, but the problem lies in the modem script. I have saved the script as a text file, then deleated its extension and put it in the modem scripts directory. When the bluetooth menu comes up and you have a choice of scripts, it is not listed. I then tried putting it in the directory as a plain text file and that too doesnt show up in the script list where the modems are. Im so lost!

Please help!!

Andrew - Once you've copied the file into /Library/Modem Scripts, you'll need to quit both Internet Connect and System Preferences to make the script appear. If that doesn't work, try rebooting - it's not clear to me when OS X decides to refresh that list.

i still cant seem to authenticate user
HELP pls

could not negotiate a connection with the remote ppp server. Pls verify your settings and try again...
i've changed the option in advance setting on the phone...paired using my ibook g4 and selected the 8100 for the option and selected the blackberry8100.txt? is that right?

1.2GHz iBook G4 OS X 10.4.8, smooth sailing! Thank You!!!!

In Minneapolis, using Speakeasy Speed test in Chicago - 218 kbps up & 6 kbps down. FYI

dew - Do you have a username and password entered in the correct fields in Internet Connect? They're not actually checked by T-Mobile's servers (I use guest/guest), but they are required.

Hey Grant ,

Kudos for being so patient and resourceful , as well as writing a dope script!

I consider myself to have been extremely thorough in my pursuit for Pearl + Macbook Pro connectivity. I see that most people were making simple mistakes or overlooking obvious flaws in their methods. I told myself I would find it out on my own because everyone else has . That was 6 hours ago.......

I have read EVERY word of EVERY post related to this topic that exists on the inernet. I have tried EVERY configuration possible , TWICE!! I am definitely technoligically humble at this point.

I am apparently able to "connect" , but when i try to go to a web page , it just hangs . Everything says connected , but there is no action at all. No iChat either. I have a full signal. I have no clue what to do. I have seen many similar problems described , but none of the troubleshooting methods discussed have produced an answer. 7.5 hours today , and 3 yeterday. I have earned my stripes. Someone HELP.

I have a Macbook Pro 10.4.8 and a Pearl 4.2.

Any help at all would be appreciated

SJ - Sorry to hear you're having such trouble! Just to confirm, you've followed the steps linked in Update 4 to the original post? If not check 'em out. If so I'd suggest turning off TCP Header Compression in the same PPP Options mentioned in that post. If that doesn't work either, let me know - there are a few other steps we can try.

I have tried everything here and cannot get it to work. My problem is similar to Ryan's where I can connect but just no activity. I even re-paired the phone that worked for him and still i cannot pull anything up.

I've tried all ideas from here so if any have any others, I'd appreciate it

Im still stuck. I too am having the same problem as Ryan and others , but the re-pairing solution isnt hacking it.

Grant , I did what you said. Still nothing.

Thanks for the HELP!!!

i am about to receive my 8100 and am looking to use with my emac (10.4.7) as wireless modem. my question, the eMac has no bluetooth - with the plethora of bluetooth adapters - does it matter whether it's a class 1 or class 2?

David - The Pearl has class 2 bluetooth built in, unless you have other class 1 devices you plan on using with your eMac I'd get a class 2 bluetooth adapter.

SJ, Alec - Can you check the Bluetooth Modem tab of the Bluetooth Network Preferences and check that 'Enable Error Correction and Compression in Modem' is unchecked?

Now if we could just get iCal and Address Book to sync via BLUETOOTH that would be a deal sealer. Any ideas?

I know pocketmac doesn't support bluetooth.

Thanks Grant, but for some reason I started working this morning. I just got my Pearl a couple days ago and on my way home from work last night, I called T-Mobile to ask if everything was setup correctly, they said it was and i left it as that. Woke up this morning to try and again and it worked without any setting changes.

Odd thing is GCalSync is now working for me too. So I wonder if something was messed up on my account or it wasn't just full active.

Thanks again for your input and script.

Did a speedtest at speedtest.net and getting 137kbps / 10kbps. Using TMobile Edge in CT

Dear all,

I had to problems: 1. Sudden disconnect after a minute or so and 2. Even when connected unable to download any data to display a webpage or sync mail.

Using Grant's hint on the top of the page I have solved problem 1. The connection is stable for as long as I want. (Using T-Mobile here in Germany). I also connect, get an IP Adress and and the 10.xxx router. But - problem number two is still open. I also tried the workaround by opening a webpage (while being connected) on my BB Pearl - but still no traffic possible.

Does anyone have a clue? Proxy issues? Any other settings? I get a stable connection - but no data flow.

Evening greetings from Hamburg - Frank

Hey all...Just a little tip...I recently downloaded a program called "propeller" which is a web accelerator for macs...Only cost's 5 dollars a month and I gotta tell ya...Worth every penny. 1. It solved all of my disconnect issues.
2. I just did a speedtest over at bandwidthplace.com while I was in NYC and landed a wopping 1.1 mbs...better than UMTS. I have a screen grab to prove it.
Seriously though..not a single problem connecting or disconnecting ever since.
I don't know jack but if you have any questions
nhftw@yahoo.com

Josh - thanks for the tip. I'd take those speed test numbers with a grain of salt, though. EDGE's max speed is in the neighborhood of 230kbps - propel is using some clever tricks to speed things up, but my guess is if you try out speakeasy.net's speed test, you'll find your numbers are lower. The reason is that SpeakEasy's test uses incompressible data, meaning the tricks web accelerators use don't work as well.

That said, web accelerators can really help out browsing over slow links, so if EDGE isn't fast enough for your daily browsing a service like propel might really help.

eh?

I guess I'm just slow? (I shouldn't be having issues.. been a Mac Tech for many yrs...)

I see nowhere to in MacOS X Bluetooth Mobile Phone set-up nor Internet connect to input either -

GPRS CID: *99***1#

nor

APN (for T-Mobile and the BlackBerry Unlimited plan, I use wap.voicestream.com).

Sorry, but this is making no sense at all.

eh? - All of my instructions refer to OS X 10.4, in case that wasn't clear. In the Bluetooth Setup Assistant, when you're first pairing your phone with your Mac, make sure you select 'Use a direct, higher speed connection to reach your Internet Service Provider (GPRS, 1xRTT)'. On the next page of the assistant, you should see a field entitled 'GPRS CID String' - that's where you'll enter *99***1#.

The APN (wap.voicestream.com) goes in the 'Telephone Number' field of the Internet Connect main window.

Hope that helps!

Hey Guys,
Wondering if anyone can help, set up everything and bluetooth modem was working great. Got disconnected and now I get an error for my mac saying "Modem error please check your settings". I've tried starting over, including a new script but it doesn't help. Can someone tell me what the default modem settings need to be set at for this to work ? I think mine have gotten screwed up...
thanks.

Thu Oct 26 16:42:51 2006 : Connecting via BlackBerry 8100.
Thu Oct 26 16:42:51 2006 : CCLWrite : ATZ\13
Thu Oct 26 16:42:54 2006 : CCLWrite : ATZ\13
Thu Oct 26 16:42:57 2006 : CCLWrite : ATZ\13
Thu Oct 26 16:43:00 2006 : Connect script failed

any ideas ???
Thanks.

Josh - If you're getting those messages, your mac isn't able to communicate with your phone over bluetooth. I'd suggest deleting the pairing between your phone and you mac and re-pairing them.

Thanks Grant but I already tried that. I should note I am using an external usb blooth adapter (D-Link DBT-120). I had it working great even connected to my Corportate VPN and used remote desktop. Here is the latest log info :
any help would be apprciated.

Thu Oct 26 20:00:05 2006 : Connect script failed
Thu Oct 26 20:02:02 2006 : Version 2.0
Thu Oct 26 20:02:03 2006 : Connect script failed
Thu Oct 26 20:02:46 2006 : Version 2.0
Thu Oct 26 20:03:02 2006 : Connect script failed
Thu Oct 26 20:04:27 2006 : Version 2.0
Thu Oct 26 20:04:43 2006 : Connect script failed

Josh - Something's wrong with your bluetooth connection to the phone. Try this:

1. Select your phone in Bluetooth Preferences. Click 'Edit Serial Ports...'
2. Verify that there's a serial port whose Device Service type is 'Dialup Networking', and that it's 'On' checkbox is ticked.
3. If one of the ports listed has a name like "BlackBerry8100-DialupNe-2" but isn't listed as providing the Dialup Networking device service, edit that port so it does.

Hope that helps!

Grant:
Sorry I forgot I am also getting an error that says "the script cannot be found' even though I can pick it from the list. I checked the folder and it's there and named correctly.
Thanks,
Josh

FWIW, I'm getting 157 Kbps down/8.36 Kbps up using www.wugnet.com/myspeed/speedtest.asp on T-Mo & BB 8100. This test also reports: 91% "Quality of Service," 987ms round trip time, and 301ms max pause time. Not sure if any of this is helpful in finding a way to boost that upload speed.

Thanks, Grant, for making all this work so seamlessly!

Josh - it sounds like the either your copy of the script has been corrupted (you can compare it to the one on the site), or the file permissions on it are wrong. When you copied it into /Library/Modem Scripts, did you have to to type your password?

One other possibility is that Bluetooth Preferences is confused about your changing the script - rebooting (or maybe just logging off) may help.

It works! THANK YOU.

I get nothing but:
Mon Oct 30 00:21:53 2006 : Connect script failed

for each attempt to connect. The script is straight from the link, pasted into a new document in /Library/Modem Scripts with no extension. I've created and deleted the script several times with the same results. The permissions are correct.
Any ideas?

I spoke too soon. I'm now connected at 222kb/s according to speakeasy. The trick was that I'd been opening the link to the script and copying everything into an open document. This time I simply downloaded the link and renamed it, which worked for some reason. Something about the copy/paste that the APN didn't like.
Thanks a lot.

I've been trying for awhile to get this to work too. No luck. I'm able to successfully connect via the settings. My mac reports getting an IP address and the router is listed. No subnet mask (although I know that was mentioned above). It refuses to load and pages though. I've tried repairing the phone and the macbook several times, but all to no avail. Even double checked the settings in ppp options. No luck. Any other ideas?

Anybody knows the settings to use it with t-mobile uk ?

..... someone please... help! I copy the .txt file script w/out the extention into the /library/modem script folder .....

BUT

IT DOES ASK ME FOR A PASSWORD / PERMISSION

BUT COPIES... PROBLEM IS, IT IS NOT VISIBLE ON THE PULL DOWN MENU ???

ANY IDEAS?

thanks

geraldrappdc@comcast.net

I was able to copy it! :) it appeared.. I dunno.. mabe it was the glare.. LOL -- still not connecting though.

-g

ALL WORKS! :) SORRY FOR THE COMPULSIVE POSTS! -G

STILL IN SHOCK THAT IT WORKS!

Hi, I found all of this very helpful but I had a few more questions.

I have to choose between the Blackberry Pearl and the new T-Mobile Dash. I have a macbook 2.0ghz and I want to use my phone as a modem. I read online that you can get full internet access through t-mobile web ($5.99/mo) by making some modifications but I don't know if this applies to either of these phones. I'm leaning towards the Blackberry Pearl because there is more info available and its stylin' but If the Dash can get full internet for $5.99/mo and the BB can't, then i'll have to go with the Dash. Any info is appreciated.

Thanks, Bob

Got it working now... Would have sworn I did that part right... Didn't both double checking, just deleated the 8100 in the BlueTooth prefs and started over.. posting this via 8100 now..

Thanks!!!!!!

Whoo! I got it working. I went with the $20 unlimited data plan so I can get EDGE and everything seems to be working fine....

and as i was typing this connection failed....

Okay Disconected and then Reconected and it is working again.

Speakeasy Speed Test: 199kbs-Down/8kbs-Up

Then disconnected again...reconected and working.

2nd Speakeasy Test: 131kbs-Down/13kbs-Up

Very clear & helpful directions! Posting over Bluetooth now! Thanks

is there going to be a difference in settings between safari and firefox?

also, i've been trying all this for hours...

might the problem be with my port configuration settings? (Bluetooth Preferences>Devices Tab>Edit Serial Ports)

i've got two serial ports listed after following all of the aforementioned directions. the first says:
Port Name:
Blackberry8100-Dia-2
Device service: Dialup Networking
Port Type: RS-232

the second says:
Port Name:
BlackBerry8100-Bla-1
Device service: Blackberry Desktop Service P:0x23E22E04 R:0x03 V:0x20004
Port Type: RS-232

I do NOT have "require pairing for security" or "show in network preferences"
checked.

There are other port types and other device services. Ideas?

Pearl v4.2.0.4.2 + MacBook Pro 10.4.8

I can't even pair my Pearl with my Mac Book Pro. I downloaded the script and dropped it in the Modem Scripts but when I go to "configure" my bluetooth device it says "there were no supported services found on your device." I changed the Pearl to "discoverable" but nothing. Weird. Any help would be awesome.

browser? - Those ports look fine. I changed my Dialup Networking port to be type Modem, but it works either way. What symptoms are you seeing?

Ryan - That sounds like a problem with the Bluetooth on your Pearl. What available services are listed in the Bluetooth Options screen on your phone? (Options -> Bluetooth -> (hit Menu) -> Options)

Grant/Anyone who can help me before Election Day!!!-

The wireless services that are listed are Headset, Handsfree, Desktop Connectivity, Wireless Bypass...

Let me try to clarify my position here. I can "pair" with my computer but when I click "configure" BlueTooth Assistant opens up and then I receive the error: "there were no supported services found on your device." This is super frustrating...I am in desperate need to get this to work.

Hey Grant,

Thanks for the directions, but somethings not working for me. I've successfully paired my Pearl with my MacBook Pro, and I downloaded your script, saved it in the proper library as Blackberry 8100, and removed the .txt. I opened Bluetooth Pref's, selected Configure for the 8100, and selected the 'higher speed connection' option. I left User Name and Password blank, and entered *99***1# in the GPRS CID box. I selected Blackberry 8100 as the modem script.

After I quit out of the setup, I go to Internet Connect, select Bluetooth, and the Configuration is for Main Number. I enter wap.voicestream.com in the Telephone # field, and guest in both username/password fields. The status says "contacting PPP server", then disconnects, and gives me a "The connection has failed. Please verify your settings and try again" dialogue. When I tried to connect, the phone asked if I wanted to accept the connection from the computer and I said yes, don't ask me again.

I have gone to advanced options on the pearl and under TCP set up wap.voicestream.com under APN and put wap as the username with no password.

I can't figure out what I'm missing. I went through all the comments looking for similar problems, and nothing seems to work. Any ideas?

Thanks for the help,
Rob

Addendum to my previous post:

I have T-Mobile's unlimited blackberry internet plan, and I can use the internet with no problem on the Pearl.

Hey everyone, ive tried numerous times in the past hours to get this thing to work, ive changed everything to what everyone has done above.

I have a macbook 13.3" 1.83ghz, Tmobile Pearl, and im using the updated script. I just copied it then saved it as a text file then deleted the .txt for the script folder under modem scripts. if anyone and everyone that has any details on this please EMAIL me. thank you. really appreciate it

-Justin

In the UK, the "Telephone Number" to use in Internet Connect appears to be "general.t-mobile.uk" - and it still seems to require the user name and password of "guest".

I didn't need to enter any user name or password in the BlackBerry advanced options for TCP, but setting the APN to "general.t-mobile.uk".

Still cant get it working in mac OSX but it works great in windows...

somone please let me know what im doing wrong. LOL

Grant,

THis is really not working for me. Is there anyone out there that can help me. I hate having to switch to windows just to get on the net. I deleted everything and started over from scratch (unpair and deleted script) i put everything back to it was when i started, tried everything over again, STILL NOTHING.

Someone let me know and email me exactly what you did with the Macbook

mazdaboi@mac.com

Thanks
-Justin

Hi Justin,

I have a Blackberry 8100 and a Black 2.0ghz Macbook and I got it working. But it took a while and it was because of a very simple little thing that I did wrong. What I did WRONG was this, I went to:

Mac HD>
System>
Library>
Modem Scripts>

And I saved it in that folder. The Modem Scripts folder in SYSTEM

What is the RIGHT thing to do is this:

Mac Hd>
Library>
Modem Scripts>

I changed that little thing and it worked. Also something that might be the problem is that it needs to be named "BlackBerry 8100".

I don't know if either of these things will help you but I hope they do. Good luck!

Chris,
I have the script in the correct folder. still no good results. I just cant figure out what im doing wrong. Ive checked and double checked everything

-Justin
mazdaboi@mac.com

Chris, Karen - thanks for the tips!

Ryan - your bluetooth profiles look correct. I've never seen this before. Are you using a 3rd party bluetooth adapter, or one built into your Mac? What version of OS X are you using? Out of curiosity, do you recall if you initiated pairing from your phone or your Mac? By which I mean, did you have your phone discover your Mac via bluetooth, or vice versa?

Rob - Usually when the script exits immediately, it's because your Mac can't communicate with your phone (did your bluetooth icon change from the 'idle' B to the 'communicating' B?) or because there's a problem with the text file itself (is the file size the same as the version on the server? extra line breaks or odd character conversions can cause problems).

Justin H - I need more information on how it's failing. Are you able to connect, but the connection won't send data? Does it take several seconds for the connection to fail, or does it fail immediately?

A general note for those having problems - the Connection Log (Window -> Connection Log in the Internet Connect menu bar) contains useful debugging information - please include the _new_ lines that appear in that window when you try to connect.