If you have high-tech friends, you may have heard them buzzing about their "blackberies." No, they are not discussing fruit. They are talking about the BlackBerry wireless e-mail device that is popular among executive types.

This of it as a souped-up two-way pager. But unlike pagers, it allows you to be always connected to your existing corporate e-mail, without getting a separate account.

The BlackBerry is easy to use and comes with a little keyboard that you operate with your thumbs.

The company that makes the BlackBerry is aiming at corporate customers, not consumers. The price tag: $399 or $499, depending on the unit you choose, plus a monthly service fee ranging from $6 to $40.

If your work requires you to check your e-mail several times an hour and you are often away from your computer, then it is worth looking into.

One drawback of the device is not its fault. BlackBerry owners can be easily spotted. They are the ones who are checking their e-mail and responding to messages while in meetings, presentations, even parties.

Learn more about BlackBerry at http://www.blackberry.net