Sim Cards and Memory Cards – JSS1 Computer Hardware & GSM Repair Lesson Note (Second Term)

A SIM card identifies you to a mobile network, while a memory card gives a phone or camera extra space to store files.

Behavioural objectives

1. State what SIM stands for and define a SIM card and a memory card.
2. List the functions of a SIM card and a memory card.
3. Name the types of SIM card and memory card by size.
4. Explain how to care for SIM cards and memory cards.
5. State the differences between a SIM card and a memory card.

What is a SIM card?

A SIM card is a small chip card that identifies a subscriber to a mobile network.

• SIM: stands for Subscriber Identity Module.
• Simple picture: it works like your phone’s ID card or passport on a network.
• Without it: the phone cannot make normal calls or send SMS, even if the phone itself is working.
• Network providers: MTN, Glo, Airtel and 9mobile each issue their own SIM cards.

What are the functions of a SIM card?

A SIM card links your phone number to your network provider.

• Phone number: it gives you a phone number.
• Network connection: it connects you to your network provider.
• Calls and SMS: it allows you to make calls and send text messages.
• Mobile data: it lets you use the provider’s data service when you have a data plan.
• Contact storage: it can store a small number of contacts and messages.
• Moving numbers: you can move the SIM to another phone and keep the same number.

What are the types of SIM card?

There are three common types of SIM card by size: standard, micro and nano.

• Standard SIM: the biggest one, found in older phones and hardly used in new phones.
• Micro SIM: a medium size, used in some older smartphones.
• Nano SIM: the smallest size, used in most modern smartphones.

• Why they shrank: phones became slimmer, so the cards had to become smaller.
• Same chip idea: all three carry the same kind of gold contact chip.

What is a memory card?

A memory card is a small removable card that stores files such as photos, music and videos.

• Other name: it is often called an SD card, short for Secure Digital.
• Cupboard picture: the phone’s internal space is like a small cupboard that can get full.
• Backpack picture: a memory card is like an extra backpack that carries more things.

What are the functions of a memory card?

The main function of a memory card is to give extra storage.

• Storage: it keeps photos, music, videos and other files.
• File transfer: it lets you move files from a phone to a computer easily.
• More free space: moving files onto it frees the phone’s internal space, which can help the phone work better.
• Backup: it can hold a copy of important files.

What are the types of memory card?

The two common types of memory card are the SD card and the microSD card.

• SD card: the full-size card, used in digital cameras and some computers.
• MicroSD card: the tiny card that fits inside almost all mobile phones.
• Adapter: a microSD card can be placed in an adapter so that a computer’s SD slot can read it.

How do you care for SIM cards and memory cards?

You care for these cards by keeping them clean, dry and handled gently.

• Keep off the gold: the gold-coloured metal lines are the contacts, and oily or dirty fingers can stop the card from working.
• Avoid water: if a card gets wet, dry it gently with a soft cloth and let it dry fully before use.
• Do not force it: if the tray will not slide in easily, stop and check that the card faces the right way.
• Protect the phone: forcing a card in can damage the metal pins inside the phone.
• Safe eject: pulling a memory card out of a computer suddenly can corrupt (damage) your files.
• Store safely: keep spare cards in a small case, because they are easy to lose.

How do you remove a memory card safely from a computer?

1. Save your work and close any file from the card.
2. Click “Eject” or “Safely Remove Hardware” on the screen.
3. Wait for the message saying it is safe to remove.
4. Pull the card out gently.

How do you put a SIM card into a phone?

1. Switch off the phone.
2. Open the card tray or back cover.
3. Match the cut corner of the card to the tray, with the gold side facing the correct way.
4. Slide the tray or card in gently.
5. Switch on the phone.

What is the difference between a SIM card and a memory card?

A SIM card identifies you and connects you to a network.

A memory card stores your files and does not connect you to a network.

Evaluation

1. What does SIM stand for?
2. List three functions of a SIM card.
3. Name the three sizes of SIM card, from biggest to smallest.
4. Why is it a bad idea to touch the gold part of a memory card?
5. You buy a new phone and want to keep your old number. Which card do you move to the new phone?

Assignment

Ask an adult at home to show you a SIM card. Write down the network name on it and say whether it is a standard, micro or nano SIM.