Frequently asked questions About GSM What is GSM? The GSM network (Global System for Mobile communications) is the most widespread mobile network in the world. In order to use the GSM network you require a GSM handset and a SIM card. What is a SIM card? GSM phones require a small electronic chip, called a SIM card, to be inserted into a slot in the handset. This SIM card is the "heart" of the phone - it contains your mobile phone number, your phone book, and all of your registration information. The Great British SIM provides you with access to over 320 GSM networks in over 140 countries. Will the Great British SIM work in my handset? All current GSM handsets should be compatible with the Great British SIM. However, you should check with the supplier of your handset that there are no SIM card restriction locks in place. Also, you must check that your GSM handset is of the correct frequency for each of the countries that you intend to visit. In the case of the UK, this is 900 MHz. If you require a GSM handset please contact us. Why is the Great British SIM so cheap? Because the Great British SIM is connected to a UK network, all calls are charged at "home" rates. Non-UK SIM cards, like your own, are charged at "visitor" rates, which are much higher. Not only that, visitors are charged for incoming calls too. Technical How do I put the SIM card into the phone? This will depend on the type of phone you own. Usually, the SIM is located behind the battery, and will slide straight out. Ensure you put the new SIM in the right way, with the information panel on the card (the golden part) touching the metal connectors in the phone. If you still have problems, consult your phone's manual, which should have instructions on entering SIM cards. Will the SIM card ever be deactivated? The connection will only be deactivated on your advice, or in event of problems with payment. Otherwise the connection will be continuous (if unused for 18 months, we will temporarily bar the SIM for security reasons. Re-activating should only require a simple phone call). If you do wish to deactivate your SIM card you will still be liable for any outstanding balance. Are there any times when the SIM card will not work? As with any cellular system, reception varies as you travel, particularly in rural areas. The service in nearly all global cities and business centres however, is of a very high quality. Note that technical problems stemming from our UK partner, or the international providers, are beyond our control. Is there technical support? Yes. Mobell have full technical support when it is needed. Simply contact us via phone, fax, or e-mail using the details in the contact us page. Our staff will be happy to help. Is there a voicemail facility? Yes, full instructions will be included in the SIM pack. Is there a text message facility? Yes, providing the handset is SMS compatible and that the recipient is using GSM networks. Mobell's Service Can I have the SIM card delivered to me in the UK? Yes. If you have left it too late for delivery to your credit card billing address, the SIM card can be delivered to an address in the UK, subject to certain security precautions. You can request the “Special UK Delivery” form by ticking the appropriate box on the online order form. Is it always free to receive calls with the Great British SIM? Whilst you are in the UK all the calls you receive will be free. You will only be charged to receive calls if you use your Great British SIM outside of the UK. Can I use the Great British SIM in countries other than the UK? Yes, the Great British SIM can be used in over 140 other GSM countries. Call rates vary greatly between these other countries, and non-UK GSM networks will also charge you to receive calls, please check our current tariffs at www.mobell.com/sim/tariffs before you travel, or contact us to request a current copy. Does my “home country” rate have to be my actual home country? No, it is called a “home country” rate because we believe most people will choose to have a cheaper rate to their home country. However, you are free to choose any one of the countries listed to be your “home country”. Do I have to sign a contract? No, all you will be asked to do is agree to our Terms and Conditions online before placing your order. Can I keep my own mobile phone number? No, your existing mobile phone number is registered to your own SIM card. You will be issued a new UK mobile phone number with your Great British SIM. However, it is possible for you to divert calls from your own phone number to your new Mobell phone number (please note that in setting a divert your own network provider might charge you for the cost of the diverted call from your own phone number to your new Mobell phone number). Can I purchase the Great British SIM anywhere other than via the website? No, the Great British SIM is an exclusively online service and only available from this website. What methods of payment can I use? Credit Cards - Amex, Visa, Diners and MasterCard. Debit Cards - Switch, Delta and Solo. (Please note that we can only accept debit cards that have the facility to be used for mail order transactions). Can I buy more than one SIM card with my credit/debit card? Your are initially limited to one Great British SIM per credit/debit card, however we may, at our discretion, allow you to purchase further SIM cards once you have established a satisfactory trading record with us.