How to get a MSL Code for a sprint phone?

[Andrew1990]

Well I am trying to program my blackberry I bought off of a friend onto my account but it did not provision automatically since I am on a free and clear plan from work. I called sprint up of course first but it seems they dont have a record of my MSL Code so I can provision it. I remember getting the MSL code for my S30 through CDMA Workshop once but that did not work either.

Is there any other way to get it?

 

[corkyg]

MSL=Master Subsidy Locak. This article may shed some light on the problem - especiaslly the last paragraph:

CDMA phones can have two six-digit codes; a one-time service programming code (SPC), and the master subsidy lock (MSL). The SPC is can be used to activate a brand new phone onto wireless service, and it works only one time. Not all wireless carriers use the SPC code.

The SPC makes it possible for a consumer to purchase the phone anywhere, call up the provider's toll-free number, and then activate the wireless phone from the directions given by the representative on the other end of the line. After the initial programming, the SPC is no longer valid. This method enables the initial field programming of the phone by the consumer, and now the wireless provider has the knowledge of the only working programming code for your phone for subsequent programming, which is the master subsidy lock.

Once the SPC has been used, the only working programming code for the phone is the MSL. This fact is important to note, because if the phone needs to be reprogrammed for any reason, the MSL must be used. These reasons may include a phone number change, a PRL update, or a firmware upgrade.

For example, if you need to change your phone number because you moved, or perhaps, you purchased the phone second-hand, the phone must be reprogrammed, and to do so requires knowledge of the MSL.

The MSL code is generated by an algorithm based upon the phone's ESN and the specific carrier who originally sold the phone. Each carrier uses a different algorithm to create the MSL code. For example, one carrier would not be able to generate valid MSL codes for a different carrier's cellular phone simply by plugging in the phone's ESN into their algorithm.

NOTE: Be careful when purchasing a second-hand phone, especially from places like eBay. Some wireless carriers, including Sprint PCS, nTelos, and Qwest/US West will NOT activate a phone if it is associated with an account with an outstanding balance. If this is the case, they will not release the MSL, and thus, you will have purchased a paperweight. If you intend to purhcase a second-hand phone for use on one of these carriers, ask the seller for the ESN of the phone and check with the carrier to see if the ESN is clear before completing the transaction.

 

[blackangst1]

with Sprint, you either need to have written it down from a previous call, or you need to call them.

 

[Andrew1990]

Ok this is weird, it seems they activated a different blackberry to my account and the one I have is locked because of a delinquent account. I called them up and explained and I got 2 different people,

The first guy was going to send a refurbished blackberry for no cost to me for an exchange but I got cut off when he took my address.

The second time a lady answered and filled out the rest of the shipping info but told me there was a $119 fee to fix it, because the other guy put it under a faulty battery status.


Now an order went through according to my email so I am hoping the one guy sent me one as I told the lady I could not afford $119 for a phone and I refuse to pay that since I can get a Palm Pre with my upgrade for that price.

 

[corkyg]

You got hosed by your "friend." Hope it eventually works out.