Tethering for Dummies???

I love my Inspire and it's performed flawlessly (almost) for me ever since launch day.

But now i can't get it to do a new trick (for me) - tethering.

From what i understand, I should be able to tether to my laptop using the cable that came with the phone, right? No additional charges, etc? I pay for the data plan, but not for the wireless hotspot service.

is there a step-by-step instructional video, or checklist anywhere that can get even a Dummy like me successfully tethered?

Remember, simple is better, and rooting is out of the question.

Thanks in advance!!!!!

http://blogs.computerworld.com/16355/android_tethering?page=7

Worked perfectly for me.

Dummy question, i can't see pdanet on the market so i assume att has blocked it even tho i pay for a "tethering" package?  Haven't plugged in my tethering cord yet, have been connecting my pc via the hotspot but wondering if i tether i i can then print to my wireless printer using my wireless connection.  can't seem to figure out how to do both, connect to the internet with my phone and connect to my wireless printer. 

does att have their own tethering software installed or is there a workaround?

Are you looking to tether without a plan?  I got this info from att direct but i have a plan:

SUBJECT:
Enable USB Tethering with the HTC Inspire 4G (PD98120)
Connect to the Internet on a Laptop Computer using the HTC Inspire 4G (PD98120)

FIX:
Prerequisites

    * A qualified tethering rateplan:
          o DataPro Personal with Tethering
          o DataPro Enterprise with Tethering
               
    * Download and install the HTC Sync software:
         1. In your computer's web browser, open http://www.htc.com/us/support/inspire-att/downloads/.
         2. Click Download - HTC Sync.
         3. Follow on-screen prompts to complete download and installation.

Enable USB tethering

   1. Connect your device to your PC via the included USB cable.
   2. On your device, select USB tethering, and then tap Done.
      NOTE: If your device does not prompt you, drag down the notification bar and tap the USB connection.
       
       
          * If your account is not provisioned properly, a notification message will be displayed.
            NOTE: For provisioning assistance, please contact customer care.
             
               
   3. Access the internet on your PC.

Disable USB tethering
 
Unplug your device from your PC.

There are three ways to tether. 
A) Buy a plan from at&t which will cost you something around $20 - $30 per month.
B) Root your phone and use one of the various solutions available out there for rooted phones
C) BUY, note it didn't say it was free because it actually isn't, a copy of pdanet for (right now) $16 =/-.  Install it on your laptop and then download a copy for your phone from them.  It is limited to one phone and (I think) unlimited PC's.  They advertise it as free but they limit is usability after 14 days so it really isn't free unless you can live with the reduce functionality.

I don't think you have much to worry about.  I suppose they could start sending you nasty letters if you are using 500 GB a month.  Although, If you look at your contract, they reserve the right to change you anything they want for anything you use.  The contract is abnsolutely in their favor.  But, I doubt that they are going to start charging differently without giving you lots of warning.

Jim