SIM Bank is another name for the SIM box which is a hardware-based network device that has the capability of reading a bank of SIM cards. It then establishes a virtual connection between SIM cards and GSM based devices to allow them to communicate. The SIM bank allows for a large number of SIM cards to be installed in a single location but allows for the GSM-based devices to be installed at variable locations. This is also called remote SIM card management through SIM bank.
SIM bank can’t directly communicate with GSM-based devices but instead communicates using VoIP gateways with remote SIM card support. The device (SIM bank) aggregates multiple SIM cards in a single location and their connection to the GSM gateway is carried via an IP network. So the power of the internet is utilized for the purpose of establishing communication between the SIM cards and GSM gateway. The key is VoIP Gateway.
SIM cards belonging to different service providers can be inserted into the same SIM bank and still be used simultaneously. The SIM bank serves a variety of different functions including:
- Using a single device, the operator can have a centralized system for the management of any number of SIM cards.
- It allows for instant or rapid installation of any SIM card by simply inserting it into a slot. One SIM card can easily be swapped for another; the process is called Hot Swapping.
- The device itself is capable of a proper and just distribution of SIM cards between different GSM gateways. The distribution can also be set according to temporary rule.
- On certain events, a SIM bank ensures the automatic distribution of SIM cards on different GSM gateways distributed by the criteria of time or event.
With the help of a SIM bank, an operator can easily swap SIM cards at their disposal to change gateway locations on distributing GSM gateways throughout a city creating the illusion of a subscriber on the move which promptly reduces the chance of being detected by the service provider and getting blocked.
Installed as a part of VoIP gateway, a SIM bank can contain any number of SIM cards. as most SIM cards have a limit to how many cards they can contain (usually around 60 to 120), multiple SIM banks can be interconnected to a single system which allows for the removal of any upper limit and the operator can attach any number of SIM banks they like to the system. SIM cards belonging to different service providers stored in a single device allows to access and operate with multiple GSM gateways that are located in different parts of a city and even different countries.
VoIP and GSM networks are connected to each other via GSM gateway which is dependent upon the device (SIM bank) which on one side connects to the internet and to the GSM network on the other as a mobile device using one of the many SIM cards inserted in the bank.
The calls that are made over the internet are directed to the SIM banks which then redirect that VoIP traffic to the receiver’s mobile network. This allows for immediate and effective bypassing of the fees charged by the service providers.
The operator of the SIM bank can direct calls (whether domestic or international) through VoIP connections which can then be connected as local traffic. Using this technique, the operator of the box can easily bypass expensive international rates which allow the operators to undercut the prices charged by the original network service providers.
The model basically uses the power of the internet to transfer calls. Utilization of this technology also significantly improves the quality of the terminated service (whether voice-based or SMS based). But it is strictly dependent upon the quality and speed of the internet connection. The better the connection, the better the quality of the service. The difference can be due to traditional service providers using outdated technology and sound codecs (FR codecs and GSM HR).
Calls made this way (via the internet) are first directed to the SIM banks which then redirect this VoIP traffic and imposes it on the relevant mobile network/s. this allows for easy bypassing of the toll charges for the interconnecting points. This helps in avoiding the official fee charged by the operator or the service providers.
More sophisticated and advanced technology is being utilized to make SIM boxes more effective. New features prevent the SIM cards from being detected whereas the same level of quality is maintained for all the users. The termination of general service in exchange for a better and cheaper option sounds like a viable choice for many, especially when it comes to expensive international calls. The domain has immense potential for marketing and can allow corporations and organizations to create brand exposure on an immense scale.
