Will you need the advice of a DIY TV master, Adam Słodowy, to trim a SIM card? Hmm... Trimming SIM cards isn't overly complicated. You won't need string, cardboard, or planks, so we'll politely decline. For good advice, refer to the text below.
When is it necessary to trim a SIM card?
A SIM card can be compared to a passport or an ID card. Just as these documents identify the personal data of their owners, a piece of plastic with a chip unambiguously identifies a mobile phone user. As technology develops much faster today than in the times when a drakkar was a Viking's primary mode of transport, the appearance of SIM cards has been evolving rapidly.
As recently as the 1990s, it was a solid rectangular piece of plastic measuring 8.5 × 5.4 cm. Before we knew it, a nano-SIM measuring 12.7 millimeters long fits into a phone. Between these models, there are also mini-SIM and micro-SIM cards (see: types of SIM cards). Along with them, the sizes, shapes, and technological capabilities of phones changed (to this day, the mere mention of the Snake game on a Nokia brings a tear to many a user's eye).
Most new smartphones have a smaller slot that fits a micro-SIM card. Therefore, if you have an older, full-size SIM model, trimming it will be necessary. You can order this service from your operator, but some networks may charge an additional fee. You can also have your card replaced by the operator with a smaller one, but the fee for a duplicate will cost you around PLN 30. Since it's not a complicated process, you can trim the SIM card yourself to the correct size.
Trimming a SIM card – what will you need?
To trim a SIM card, you will need:
- a template with card dimensions,
- double-sided adhesive tape,
- a thin marker,
- a utility knife or very sharp scissors,
- a ruler,
- a nail file.
Trimming a SIM card step by step
When trimming a SIM card, you should proceed with caution to avoid damaging the chip within it.
- It's best to prepare a template beforehand on which you will mark the card's dimensions.
- A template to which you can stick the card will also be useful for precisely marking the cutting lines.
- Before starting the operation, it's worth checking if the card size matches, and then using double-sided tape, stick the card to the template. Of course, not on the side with the chip.
- Once everything is prepared, you should enter a state of maximum concentration. This is the moment when you mark the cutting lines on the card with a marker. It's best to do this using a ruler. This way, you ensure that all lines are straight.
- The next step is to trim the card, which you must do with surgical precision. Cut along the outer edge of the lines and do your best not to cut too much. Otherwise, the card will not function correctly.
- Once you have a size that fits the micro-SIM template, you should smooth the edges of the card with a nail file. This will remove any unevenness or slight curves left after cutting.
- Now all that's left is to fit the card into the slot in your phone. If it doesn't fit, don't force it. Any imperfections should be further filed down, the card cleaned of dust, and you're done. Simply turn on your phone and check if it connects to the network.
And one more thing. When you use Mobile Vikings' offer, you can rest assured that the SIM card sent to Vikings will fit every smartphone model. You'll be able to easily adapt it to the three most popular SIM card sizes.
Perhaps Adam Słodowy would have had some revolutionary tips, but we believe you've managed on your own. The whole process shouldn't take more than a few minutes. You likely have all the necessary items to trim a SIM card at home. And you can consider the several dozen zlotys saved on duplicates as a bonus. And that satisfaction from a perfect cut!
