BLACKBERRY CODE SIGNING STEPS

Why need code signing?

if use any of the controlled API's: Runtime API, Blackberry Apps API and Crypto API. These APIs need signing to be able to execute on a real BlackBerry device. Without signing can use these APIs only on a simulator.

Code signing is not required when applications are loaded and tested on a BlackBerry Smart phone Simulator.

Developers order code signing keys from RIM, and receive a set of files that are then installed on their development machine. The BlackBerry development tools are then able to provide these key files to the BlackBerry Signature Tool when the developer requests that their application be signed. The BlackBerry Signature applies a unique signature, representing the identity of the developer, to all *.cod files that compose a BlackBerry application. Developers should not share their code signing keys with others.

Signing Your Application Using the BlackBerry JDE Plug-In for Eclipse

As explained below, the complete steps for setting up and using BlackBerry code signing process are:

1. Order Code Signing Keys from RIM
2. Install Code Signing Keys
3. Sign Application using the BlackBerry development tools
   Order Code Signing Keys from RIM
   

Developers can https://www.blackberry.com/SignedKeys/nfc-form.html. As part of the registration process, developers must choose and provide a PIN that they will use while installing their code signing keys. BlackBerry Code Signing keys are free of charge.

Once registered, a set of 3 keys and installation instructions will each be delivered in a separate email. Code signing keys do not have any form of expiry, and can be used indefinitely to sign many BlackBerry applications.

Typically, registration for code signing keys is processed within 2 hours. If you haven’t received your keys within 2 hours of submitting the registration form, please check your spam filters, the keys will be addressed from websigner@ws-smtp.rim.net. If you are unable to locate them contact BlackBerry support at CodeSigningOrders@BlackBerry.com.

 

                                 Install Code Signing Keys

An email will be sent to the address used during the registration process.

This email will include attached code signing key files, and instructions for how these

files should be installed.

All code signing keys received need to be installed on the same PC. The same
password must be specified for all keys on the same PC. You should receive each
key/.csi file in a separate email message.
To register the attachment, please follow the instructions below:

Step 1: Save all 3 .csi files, sent via email, into the same directory.

(RBB.csi, RCR.csi & RRT.csi).

Step 2 : Start Eclipse.


Step3 : Click on the Window menu item -> Preferences.
Expand the BlackBerry Java Plug-in and select "Signiture Tool...".
And Click “Install New”

 



Step 4: Select one of the RBB .csi files saved in step 1 and click Open.

Step 5: Click "Yes" to create a new key pair file.



Step 6: Type a password for your private key of at least 8 characters, and type it again
to confirm. This is your private key password, which protects your private key.
Please remember this password as you will be prompted for it each time signing
is attempted or a signature key is installed.



Step 7: Move your mouse to generate date for a new private key.



Step 8: In the "Registration PIN" field, type the PIN number that you supplied when
purchasing signature keys.



Step 9: In the Private Key password field, type the password created in step 6.



Step 10 : Click "Register".



Step 11:Click "Exit".



Step 12: Repeat this process for the other csi files(RCR.csi & RRT.csi).

Sign Application using the BlackBerry Development Tools

Step 1: Right click on your project in the Package Explorer window

Step 2: Expand the "BlackBerry" menu item

Step 3: Select "Sign with Signature Tool"

Step 4: When prompted, enter the signing password you defined when installing your signature keys.

Once the code signing password has been provided, the development tool will launch the BlackBerry Signature Tool which will open in a new window.  You will see any necessary code signing keys applied to all COD files created as part of your application.

                                                                                   -PAVANKUMAR JOSHI