ARCHIVED: Using a BlackBerry, how do I turn off wireless synchronization to minimize my wireless data usage?

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About wireless synchronization

The BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) supports wireless synchronization of Outlook Inbox and Calendar data, as well as Contacts (Address Book), Notes (Memo Pad), and Tasks. It also provides support for synchronizing data in all mailbox folders, and a sophisticated web browser.

Note: The BlackBerry Enterprise Server (BES) service will be retired by January 1, 2015; see ARCHIVED: About the retired BES (BlackBerry Enterprise Server). As of January 1, 2013, no new BES accounts are being created. UITS recommends you replace your BlackBerry with a device that is compatible with ActiveSync.

By default, wireless synchronization of all such PIM (personal information manager) data is enabled for everyone using the BES, affecting the amount of wireless data transmitted to and from your BlackBerry.

If your cellular contract specifies a limited data plan, you risk using more data than your contract allows. Though this is unlikely for typical usage, you can check your billing statement or use your cellular provider's online tools to determine how close you are to exceeding the contracted data limit. If you decide to increase your data plan, most providers will let you upgrade to unlimited data service without requiring a new contract.

Turning off wireless synchronization

To help manage the amount of wireless data your device consumes, you can turn off the wireless synchronization of each PIM area. Then, to synchronize data to your BlackBerry, use the supplied cradle or USB cable and the BlackBerry Desktop Software.

Also, to reduce your wireless data usage, UITS recommends that you turn off wireless synchronization for features that are least important to you. Then, throughout the subsequent month, you can monitor your data consumption and see the effect of turning on wireless synchronization features one at a time.

On your BlackBerry, to turn off wireless synchronization for Calendar, Address Book, Tasks, or Memo Pad, open the appropriate screen, click the trackball, and then:

From the menu, choose Options, and then select Wireless Synchronization.
Click the trackball and choose Change Option. Use the trackball to change the selected option from Yes to No.

Note: Turning off synchronization for Calendar will stop all wireless calendar redirection to your device. You will still receive invitations and be able to create calendar events, but must cradle the device to update calendar appointments to the BlackBerry.