Cricket 6700: SMS/Linux

[j0s1ah]

Recently received the phone through an eBay purchase. I have Cricket service, I am able to call, but not receive calls. I am able to surf the internet. I am able to receive text messages (though late). I am unable to send text messages, this is a bummer. Though, I did send a friend a pix message yesterday night, and he got it this morning... but every time I try and text it fails...
1) Do SMS and MMS run on the same mechanism or pathway? What I mean is if I follow all the MMS thread's suggestions and instructions, will normal text messaging function? This is my main dilemma, I am paying for unlimited texting, yet do not have it... leaves a bad taste in the mouth.

2) Some of the reg. values/keys in this thread (http://forum.ppcgeeks.com/showthread...ht=cricket+MMS) are not present on my device. The seller included a trial version of Resco Registry, which I have used to change many values... but it won't let me delete (not full version). What is another regedit program that is free?

#) I run ubuntu linux on my computer. I plugged the phone up to the computer... and my computer did not recognize that anything happened. The phone came with a CD... but I don't think any of the prorgams will run on a linux system. Does anyone know of syncing or recognition software that will work with ubuntu? Or should I use my roomie's PC... lol.

I did my best to search multiple forums out for the past day... but could use some direct, fresh answers. Thanks much.