This simple tutorial will show you how to make a Micro-SIM to SIM adapter from your old SIM card in iPhone 2G to iPhone 3GS so you can use the new iPhone 4 Micro-SIM on your older devices. This process destroys the old SIM card. Luckily, when you buy a new iPhone 4, they give you a new SIM card and deactivate the old one, rendering the old one useless.
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NanoSim+MicroSD in a universal slot
What is a universal slot in a smartphone?
This is a slot that contains space for two SIM cards, or SIM+RUIM mobile operators, however, one of the SIM cards can be replaced with a MicroSD memory card.
In our case, this is a Xiaomi Redmi 3 smartphone, the universal slot of which is intended for the following card installation options:
But there is a collective farm option, i.e. a sandwich is when a Nano Sim card is placed on a MicroSD memory card, but you need to use a file.
Let’s try to tell and show how this very “sandwich” is made for a universal slot, and we’ll also express our opinion on the result.
First, you need to separate the contact group of the SIM card from the plastic case, I will do this using a soldering station, you can use a hair dryer, someone heats it with an iron, and someone uses a lighter.
Cutting template
The main magnetic chip in cards always remains of a given size and is not modified, but the plastic base on which the chip is glued has different sizes and is easily modified.
To avoid the risk of damage, take your time! At first glance, a primitive procedure can lead to damage to the magnetic base due to carelessness. The main difficulty for the user is finding a suitable template for format cutting.
This is what a template with the correct dimensions looks like on paper, which is recommended if the user is going to cut a SIM card for a microsim at home. Step-by-step preparation process:
- Prepare a sheet of cardboard, place a standard SIM card on top, press it with your finger and trace along the outline.
- On a paper mock-up of the SIM card, you need to draw out all the measurements presented in the figure according to the template.
- As a result, the internal microsim should have rectangular dimensions of 15x12 mm.
- Cut out this rectangle clearly along the contours.
This is how a paper template is prepared for the future microcard.
It is recommended to cut the template out of thick cardboard, so you can always check whether the prepared layout will fit into the slot. If you find that there are extra millimeters left, they can be cut off immediately.
SIM card adapter
Today, subscribers of cellular operators use various mobile devices that support different SIM card formats. When purchasing a new number, there are no problems with the SIM card format. Operators issue so-called trio-format SIM cards, and the user just needs to break out a card of the required size from its base.
But if there is a need to use the card in another device, then you will need an adapter for the SIM. This adapter allows you to make a mini SIM card from a micro SIM card, or a micro SIM card from a nano card. Today we will tell you the features of adapters for nano and micro SIM cards, how to choose the right adapter, or make it yourself.
History of "Simka"
The Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card is used in mobile phones as a memory chip that contains data necessary for authentication to the mobile network. Early cards only had 16KB to 64KB of storage, which was enough to copy authentication data, mobile data settings, and some contacts and text messages. More advanced capabilities were introduced with the advent of multimedia messaging. Today, some SIM chips with the same connection format may have built-in microprocessors for additional functionality. Modern developers are working to add even Near Field Communication (NFC) to the SIM card chip.
What are the differences and how to buy?
Most users wonder what the differences are between various adapters with a micro-SIM or applied to a regular SIM card when the need arises to buy such an adapter. And despite the simplicity of such an accessory, there are differences, and they can be significant.
When using adapters, it is necessary to take into account an important aspect, namely its thickness. It may seem that all SIM cards have the same thickness of plastic, but in fact this is not the case.
In the process of format evolution, SIM cards received not only smaller dimensions in length and width, but also in thickness. Many have encountered a situation where in older phones there may be a problem with the SIM card due to the fact that it does not fit tightly to the contacts. With cards of newer formats the situation is completely opposite, and they are much thinner, although this is not noticeable to the eye.
However, the problem with the thickness of the card is due to the fact that models from different phone manufacturers use different SIM card holder mechanisms. A SIM card that is too thick may get stuck in it, or if removed with force, damage the contacts.
Samdi Brand Adapter
This is one of the best selling adapters you can find today. There are several different color options and they are all available at the same price. The adapter is equipped with micro and nano-SIM adapters. There is also a micro-mic adapter that is compatible with all iPhone models. There is also a SIM ejector needle included in the kit, since many modern phones (for example, OnePlus 3 and Apple) come with ejector trays. You also get a file pack for storing cards, which can be useful if you have a lot of SIM cards that you would like to keep.
DIY adapter
When cutting out a hole for your SIM card, you can use another SIM card of the desired format as a template. Since this option is absolutely inexpensive, you don’t have to worry that you may not be able to place the SIM correctly in the homemade adapter the first time.
After cutting the plastic adapter, you can further sharpen the edges and corners with a file. This will also help in the situation if you end up with a slightly larger adapter, or a small hole in it.
Another option for obtaining an adapter is the base of the SIM card itself. After purchasing a SIM card, we do not recommend throwing away the plastic base of the SIM card, because not only does it contain important information, but it can also serve as the simplest and ideal adapter for your SIM card.
Source
Generic Sim Card Adapter
The universal adapter is compatible with all phone models. This is the cheapest of the adapters that can be found in company stores, since it costs just over a dollar. They are made of durable material and cut with great precision so that the SIM card fits perfectly. The kit includes three different adapters - Nano to Micro, Nano to Standard and Micro to Standard. There is no single ejection needle or file for storing cards in the set, but considering its cost, this is quite justified.
Do it yourself. How to put two SIM cards and microSD in one slot
How to use the universal slot to its fullest? Make a combined SIM card with a built-in memory card!
A hybrid slot that allows you to install either 2 SIMs or a SIM and a flash drive is the scourge of our time. Separate slots are steadily appearing in smartphones in the lower price segment. Most of the popular, noteworthy models force you to get out with flash drives connected via OTG .
Or purchase a device with more memory. The manufacturers' policy is clear - to make as much money as possible by offering a smartphone with an increased amount of internal memory for much more than the cost of the memory itself.
Mobi Lock 3 in 1
The Mobi Lock 3 in 1 Adapter is priced a little higher than some of the other kits on this list, but it provides very good quality. The set includes all three adapters with which you can convert micro or nano to other sizes. All adapters are built so that your SIM card fits perfectly into the tray. All of them are reversible, so you can always remove the SIM card if you want to use it with multiple devices with support for different sizes. Since the set contains three devices, it can be considered as an adapter for 2 SIM cards. The adapters are compatible with all types of phones, and their installation is quite simple. You don't need any additional tools to hold the card. Also included is a singlet ejector needle.
Why is this necessary?
Smartphones with a minimum amount of internal memory usually cost much less than their counterparts with larger storage.
Applications and content are perfectly placed on the card, so almost all brands retain the ability to install it (with the exception of some overly “principled” Chinese brands). Typically, in a “paired” tray, the contacts of the microSD memory card and the second SIM card are in different places. If desired, they can be combined - and nothing prevents them from working simultaneously. There are no software restrictions.
iSYFIX 4 in 1
This is one of the more expensive SIM card adapter kits, but still offers very good quality in packaging and assembly. The kit includes three different SIM card adapters. There are Nano to Micro, Micro to Standard and Nano to Micro adapters. You will also get a SIM tray ejector pin, which can be quite useful for use on most modern smartphones. The adapters are crafted using high quality materials and precision cut so they hold the card tightly. Installation is very simple and will only take a few seconds. You don't need any additional tools to do it. In addition, the manufacturer iSYFIX provides a one-year warranty on the kit.
For which smartphones can a hybrid SIM+microSD be made?
For almost any smartphone that has a slot design similar to the one shown in the picture above.
Yes, the contacts of the flash drive and SIM card are directed in the same direction. However, they use different sets of contacts with different heights to operate. Some companies deliberately reduce the thickness of the slot, or change the direction of the elements in the tray. In such cases, you first need to turn to specialized communities dedicated to discussing the relevant smartphone.
Media Devil Simdevil 3-in-1
This is another good SIM card adapter that you can buy almost anywhere. The package contains three different adapters. There is nano-Sim for micro, nano for standard and micro for standard. The kit also includes a tray eject needle for some phone models. There's also a SIM card cutter included, so you can expect it to fit perfectly into the adapter. This is especially important for previously cut cards, as their size may vary depending on the quality of the cutter. This kit is quite cheap and is fully compatible with most phones.
Manufacturing instructions
Determining the correct position of elements
First, you will need to determine the correct position of the SIM card in the tray.
Cards from different operators may have different contact configurations. It makes sense to outline the outline that will fit into the slot - this will make it easier to trim. It is also necessary to estimate the maximum allowable thickness of the SIM card.
SIM manufacturing
After we have decided on the size, it is necessary to separate the SIM card itself (chip) from the plastic base.
Two methods are used for this: 1. Heating the SIM card from the plastic side at a temperature of about 200 degrees for 30-60 seconds to 1 minute. In this case, the plastic is separated from the chip using a knife or blade. 2. Chemical dissolution of the plastic substrate using dichloroethane (POISON! Use only in a ventilated area!), acetone or a similar solvent - for example, 646.
The separated chip will require additional processing. First you need to get rid of any remaining glue on the back side using a knife or solvent - carefully so as not to damage the contacts.
Then you will need to carefully trim the contact pad of the SIM card to place it on the microSD in accordance with the first point. It will take 1-2 mm on each side.
Connecting SIM and microSD
After preparing the SIM card, you need to check whether there are any interferences during installation on the side of the flash drive itself.
In some cases, it is necessary to file off the tubercle on the reverse side using a small (jeweler's) file. Typically, instructions recommend attaching the SIM to the memory card using double-sided tape. In fact, it is better to carry out the following manipulations:
— make sure that the combination will fit flush or barely sticking out in the slot; — glue the elements to each other using cyanoacrylate- (“Moment Superglue Gel”), carefully gluing the SIM card around the edges.
If necessary, cyanoacrylate is easily destroyed using specialized compounds from the store or nail polish remover without acetone (isopropyl alcohol).
Checking the work
Finally, you need to check that all actions have been performed correctly. If everything is done correctly, then the simultaneous work will look like this:
If the memory card is not visible, you need to tin the contacts of the memory card with a soldering iron, or stick a strip of electrical tape on the back side to make the contacts a little higher.
Aerb Adapter Kit
This adapter kit from Aerb is definitely a great recommendation as it is cheaper than most other similar products. The SIM card adapters are completely different compared to the competition as they are completely reversible. So you can easily switch between multiple devices with ease. The adapter is made of high quality plastic, so it is quite durable. Apart from this, it is also quite lightweight. The kit also includes a rod and a needle. The sanding rod can be used to clean your SIM slot, and the needle is used as a SIM tray ejector. Aerb also offers a guarantee and you can get your money back within 30 days if you are not satisfied with the product.
Precautionary measures
The thickness of the elements should be minimal.
There should be no gaps between the SIM card and the flash drive. Gluing along the edge is required - if the SIM card sticks out even a little, there is a chance that when you pull out the slot, you will leave it in it. It is recommended not to remove the tray after manufacturing and installation. Therefore, you should be concerned about the capacity of the microSD card - and do not skimp on cards with a larger capacity. As practice shows, the chance of ruining a SIM card is much greater - it is the one that gets stuck.
In addition, before manufacturing, you should contact the specialized community for information: are there any problems with using hybrid microSD+SIM. Especially when making it for the first time.
Many brands have problematic smartphone models: for example, Meizu M2 Note. “Sandwich” has every chance of breaking the universal slot.
Cross Compatibility
Most modern smartphones have a tightly mounted SIM card slot rather than a swivel holder. Some models go even further (for example, Nokia N8) - they have a push-to-eject system. For this reason, such gadgets have a very limited space in which the card must fit.
Because of this, low-quality adapters can easily get stuck on the contact pins and cause damage when trying to remove them. For this reason, it is not recommended to make an adapter for a SIM card yourself.
