Will my OTACELL/GSM-START device be affected when the 2G/3G network shuts down?

Our older remote control units use the 2G network, often referred to as the GSM network. Our current model uses the 4G network, which is designed to operate in parallel with 5G for many years. This means that units with 4G support are well prepared for the future.

Across the EU, mobile operators are gradually shutting down 2G and 3G networks. The exact timetable and affected technologies differ between countries and between operators. Some operators may switch off 3G first and keep 2G for a while, while others may phase out both networks in a shorter time frame. Because of this, you should always check the current information from your own mobile operator in the country where the unit is installed.

How to check if your unit is affected

The first step is to find out whether you have an older 2G/GSM model or a newer 4G model. You do this by checking the article number.

• Article numbers starting with GSMS-, for example GSMS-SW22, GSMS-SW22T, GSMS-PH3, GSMS-PH4 or GSMS-PH5, use the 2G/GSM network and will need to be replaced at some point.

• Article numbers starting with OTAC- (and not GSMS-) use the 4G network and do not require any action related to the 2G and 3G shutdown.

The article number is printed on the product label on the unit and is also shown in the order confirmation that was emailed to you when you placed your order.

How long will a 2G unit keep working?

A 2G unit will keep working only as long as your mobile operator keeps its 2G network active. When your operator switches off 2G, the unit will no longer be able to communicate via SMS or calls.

If your current operator has already announced a shutdown date for 2G, you have two main options:

• Replace the 2G unit with a 4G model so that you are ready for the future network structure.

• In some cases, and only where available in your country, you may temporarily extend the life of the unit by switching to another operator that still offers 2G coverage. You must always verify coverage and shutdown plans directly with the operator before making this decision.

What kind of SIM card can be used?

If you decide to continue using a 2G unit for a limited time, you can generally use any SIM card from an operator that still provides 2G service in the installation area. This can be a standard mobile subscription, an M2M (machine to machine) subscription or a prepaid card, depending on what your operator offers.

Keep in mind that:

• There must be sufficient network coverage from the chosen operator where the unit is installed.

• If you use a prepaid SIM card, there must be enough credit on the card for the unit to send and receive SMS messages.

Step by step: how to replace the SIM card in a 2G unit

When you replace the SIM card in a 2G unit, follow the steps below. Always follow the user manual for your specific model in parallel with these instructions.

1. Disconnect power to the unit. Switch off the power supply to the unit before you start.

2. Prepare the new SIM card. Insert the new SIM card in a regular mobile phone and disable the PIN code in the phone settings.

3. Test the SIM card in the phone. Send a test SMS from the phone where the SIM card is inserted to your regular mobile number. This allows you to confirm that the SIM card is working correctly and that you know the correct phone number that will later be used in the unit.

4. Install the SIM card in the unit. Remove the SIM card from the phone and insert it into the unit according to the user manual. When the SIM card is in place, restore power to the unit.

5. Update the phone number in the app. Open the app for the unit. In Swedish the app is called "GSMS Fjärrkontroll" and in English it is called "GSMS Remote Control".

   • On Android, tap the gear icon in the top right corner.

   • On iPhone, tap the settings icon in the top right corner.

   Then select "MANAGE PROFILES".

   • On Android, tap "edit" to the right of the relevant unit in the list.

   • On iPhone, tap the "i" (information symbol) to the right of the relevant unit.

   Change the phone number to the number of the new SIM card. No other settings need to be changed. Finally, tap "Save" in the top right corner.

6. Test that the unit works. Go back to the main view in the app, where all the command buttons are shown, and send a test command to verify that the unit responds as expected.

Remember that the unit can only respond if there is sufficient credit on the installed SIM card. If you are unsure about any step, always refer to the user manual for your model. All older manuals can be found here: www.otacell.se/manual_link