How do I bypass the Verizon activation on a Samsung Fascinate?

I want to use a Samsung Fascinate (model SCH-I500) in WiFi only mode for development and testing purposes. The device has been factory reset and boots to the Verizon activation screen. How do I bypass activation? Do I need to root the device?

Answer

After doing some additional research I finally came across a YouTube video on how to bypass a Samsung Galaxy S Continuum activation screen. The steps outlined in the video are very simple:

1. From the Activation Screen select Emergency call.


2. Enter the following *#83786633 (*#TESTMODE) which will disappear when you press the last 3


3. A toast with the text Softkey is enabled will appear


4. Then press the home button