Multiple BlackBerrys per Mailfile?

Answer: Yes with some caveats.

First, you need to have fully separate BES environments, i.e. at least 2 SQL back end databases. This is easy for us as we have an EU BES environment on it's own SQL database.

If we need to set up an additional handheld for an end user, whether they need it temporarily for an assistant, or need to test a new device, then we add their account to the other BES environment and activate their device as normal. Since BlackBerrys are international devices there is no problem getting back to the device here in the U.S to finish activation.

Notes:

1) BlackBerry activation can take considerably longer due to the WAN if you are using another continents environment like we are. Don't freak out if it takes a few hours.

2) If you are doing OTA activation, temporarily disable the original BES account as it might pick up the activation email and discard it, leaving your remote BES server waiting forever. [BES servers are selfish and will NOC-block you if you let them. :)]

3) If these requests becomes common, you might want to think about a secondary local BES environment, perhaps running with an integrated MSDE, to support this service. Of course you need an additional SRP to do this.

4) Remember that these accounts cannot be failed/moved over to other local BES servers in a DR scenario, as they are on a separate database.

5) Don't forget about these "ex-pat" accounts if on a foreign BES server. The local admins may not ever delete them b/c they don't know who they are. So you should keep track of them and delete them when it looks like the service was cancelled or otherwise abandoned.

Other than these caveats, I have not seen any issues with this in our environment.