With some cell phones, switching SIM cards is as easy as
removing the card from one phone and replacing it with another- the
North American practice of "locking" cell phones can make this
process a little more difficult.
Steps
- If your cell phone is "unlocked" (e.g. not programmed to work
only with one cell phone company), switching SIM cards will be a
simple process. Slide off the cover that guards the battery, remove
the battery, and slide the old SIM card out. Place the new SIM card
in its place, replace the battery, and put the cover back on the
phone. Your SIM card information should now be in the new
phone.
- If you receive an error message, it could be that your phone is
"locked". Many North American cell phone companies program phones
so that they can only be used with their SIM cards. If you have had
your contract for a significant length of time, try returning to
the store from which you bought your phone and contract and ask
them to unlock your phone. They should be willing to comply,
particularly if you are not trying to cancel your contract, only
make use of equipment that is yours.
- If your phone company will not "unlock" your phone, try taking
it to an independent cell phone seller and ask them to unlock the
phone. You may need to pay for this service ($20-30USD is typical).
Some phones may also be unlocked over the Internet. A dealer can
use your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity--which is a
unique number for UMTS and GSM phones), and email you the unlock
code with instructions to do it yourself. This service typically
costs between $30-40USD.
Tips
- Try to search for Internet message boards that support your
phone. They are an invaluable resource of knowledge and
opinion.
Warnings
- Be sure that your cell phone is turned off before changing SIM
cards
