q_long,
<< Can anyone elaborate on how the GSM/CDMA SIM card works. >>
It is hard to top Ilmarinen's description but ...
Detail here:
Message 12731046
Update here:
Message 14355514
<< Is it embedded in the handset for dual mode GSM/CDMA >>
Inserted in, not embedded in. Removeable.
Any GSM mobile station (dual, tri, quad mode, 2G, 2.5G or 3G) consists of the mobile equipment (ME) or terminal, and a smart card called the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM), or in 3G a USIM. The SIM provides personal mobility, so that the user can have access to subscribed services irrespective of a specific terminal. No services are available without the SIM (or USIM) other than 911 access.
CDG does not like the word SIM, so they call it a Removable Universal Identity Module (R-UIM).
<< Is it an optional card than can be inserted in the handset? >>
In GSM (or any 3G3 mobile) the card is removable, but not optional. No services are available without the SIM (or USIM at least in GSM mode).
A 2nd smart card "slot" (or reader) will be available (is available in limited models now) to insert a "private label" smart card like a VISA, Amex, or MasterCard for m-commerce transaction processing.
AT&T's new SIM card (they initiated the original version in 1995) is optional in their 2G TDMA. It is inserted in a rental GSM phone when travelling to more civilized countries.
More on SIM in China & Korea here:
Message 14379094
Message 14378937
- Eric - |
