When you purchased your BlackBerry 7290, the smartphone most likely came locked to the service provider that sold the phone. You can use the 7290 on a different carrier's network but you will need to unlock it first. Once the phone has been unlocked, you will be able to use a SIM card from any GSM carrier. Unlocking the phone requires a passcode that is unique to each handset. No two phones have the same unlock code.
Instructions
1. Obtain your SIM unlock code. You can request the code from your mobile carrier or purchase a code from a cellular unlocking service. In the latter case, you will need the phone's IMEI number. Type "*#06#" to display the IMEI number. You can also find this number by opening "Options" and clicking on "Status."
2. Turn off the BlackBerry 7290. Remove the battery cover and battery.
3. Slide the metal clip to the left and flip it open. Slide the old SIM card out of the metal clip and insert a new SIM card from a different carrier. The metal contacts on the SIM card should face into the phone, with the clipped corner on the top right. Lock the new SIM in place by sliding the clip to the right.
4. Re-insert the battery cover and battery, then power on the phone.
5. Highlight "Options" and click the trackwheel, then select "Advanced Options." Click the trackwheel on "SIM Card" and type "mepd" (without quotes) on the keyboard. Nothing will appear on the screen as you type; this is normal. When you are finished typing, a menu will display.
6. Highlight "Network," type "mep" and then hold the "Alt" key as you press the "2" button. The phone will ask for a Network MEP code.
7. Type the unlock code on the keyboard and press the "Enter" button. The phone will display "Code Accepted." Verify that all of the menu options are set to "Disabled." If the "Service Provider" listing is still enabled, click the "Back" button and return to the SIM Card screen.
8. Type "mep" and then hold the "Alt" button as you press "4." The phone will ask for the unlock code again. Type the unlock code and press "Enter."
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