────────────────────────────── Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ──────────────────────────────

SECTION 1: NETWORK & SIM CARD ISSUES

Authentication / Registration on Network
Q: My SIM card is not registering on the network. What could be the issue?
A: Consider the following potential causes:
 • The SIM card may not have been correctly personalized or provisioned.
 • The Access Class Control (ACC) might be set incorrectly (it must not be “00 00” because that setting blocks all access).
 • The card may be missing its IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity).
 • Essential authentication keys (Ki, OPc) may be missing or set incorrectly. Note that the network and SIM must use matching algorithms (e.g., Milenage or TUAK). An incorrect Ki or OPc checksum can lead to authentication failures.
 • A MAC error usually indicates a mismatch in the Ki or OPc keys.
 • A SYNC failure could occur if the SQN (sequence number) is out of sync between the SIM and network – resetting the SQN file may resolve this.
If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact your mobile network operator to verify the correct parameters.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 2: 3GPP, GSM & UMTS SPECIFICATIONS

Q: Where can I find the rules, protocols, or software needed to develop applications for UMTS?
A: The 3GPP website is the best starting point; review the specifications list for detailed standards.

Q: Where can I access documents produced by the GSM MoU Group or GSM Association?
A: Documents from the GSM Association are available on their official website.

Q: Where can I find the 3GPP Confidentiality and Integrity algorithms?
A: The 3GPP Confidentiality and Integrity algorithms (F8 & F9, based on KASUMI) have been developed collaboratively by the 3GPP Organizational Partners. More details and downloads can be found through the relevant 3GPP resources.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 3: SIM, USIM, UICC & Femtocells

Q: What is the difference between a SIM and a USIM? What is a UICC?
A:
 • The UICC (Universal Integrated Circuit Card) is a general-purpose smart card that holds subscriber information along with potential additional applications (for instance, electronic purse functions).
 • The SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) stores static subscriber data such as phone number, home network identity, and a list of preferred roaming networks.
 • For 3G networks and beyond, the traditional SIM evolved into the USIM (Universal Subscriber Identity Module), which supports enhanced security and more complex functions.
For more details on the evolution of 3GPP cards, consult the 3GPP Release documentation.

Q: What is a femtocell, and how does it differ from other cellular base stations?
A:
 • A femtocell is a low-power cellular base station intended for residential or small business use to improve indoor coverage.
 • In 3G (UMTS), femtocells are known as Home Node Bs (HNB); in 4G (LTE), they are called Home eNode Bs (HeNB).
 • In 5G networks, small cells (which may be classified as pico cells, micro cells, or 5G gNodeBs) serve a similar role in offloading traffic and enhancing coverage in dense environments.

Q: What are the GSM carrier frequencies?
A:
 • GSM networks originally operated in the 900 and 1800 MHz bands. In regions like the United States and Canada, the 850 and 1900 MHz bands are common when 900 or 1800 MHz are allocated for other uses.
 • In some countries, legacy bands (400 and 450 MHz) are still in use.
 • Meanwhile, most European 3G networks typically operate in the 2100 MHz band.
 • Note that each GSM frequency channel is divided into timeslots using TDMA; for example, one frequency can support 16 half-rate or 8 full-rate channels.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 4: SMART CARD & JAVA CARD TECHNOLOGY

Q: What is a Java Card applet?
A: A Java Card applet is a secure application written for smart cards. It comprises classes and interfaces (one class must extend javacard.framework.Applet) that are compiled into a CAP file, assigned a unique AID (Application Identifier), and then loaded onto the card.

Q: What is an APDU?
A: The Application Protocol Data Unit (APDU) is the communication packet exchanged between a card reader and a smart card, as defined in ISO 7816.
 • Command APDUs (sent by the reader) include a 5-byte header plus up to 255 bytes of data.
 • Response APDUs (sent by the card) include a 2-byte status word plus up to 256 bytes of data.

Q: What is a Security Domain?
A: A Security Domain is a specialized applet that manages and secures the installation and operation of other applets on a smart card.

Q: What is the Card Manager?
A: The Card Manager acts as the central authority in an Open Platform environment. It oversees the installation, personalization, and management of applets on the card. (For detailed functionality, refer to the GlobalPlatform specifications.)

Q: How do I choose the applet to which I am sending commands?
A: Typically, commands are directed to the currently selected applet (i.e., the last one selected using the SELECT command). When logical channels are supported, multiple applets may be active, and the selection is based on the APDU header’s class byte.

Q: How can I load code onto a card?
A: First, convert your applet into a CAP file. Then, use an on-card installer to send the CAP file in segments via APDUs (each limited to 255 bytes). Finally, instantiate the applet with an INSTALL command. Note that some tools will automatically generate a load script for this process.

Q: How does a card communicate with external devices?
A:
 • A card must be inserted into a card reader (or brought within range for contactless cards).
 • The reader provides power and clock signals and typically starts communication by selecting a card application using a SELECT command.
 • Communication then proceeds as an exchange of APDUs using protocols such as T=0 or T=1 (transparent to the Java Card application).
 • For deeper details, refer to ISO 7816-3.

Q: What is a status word?
A: A status word is a mandatory 2-byte code returned after processing an APDU. A default value of 0x9000 indicates success; alternative codes signal specific error conditions.

Q: How does Java Card differ from standard Java?
A: While both run Java bytecode, Java Card is optimized for the resource-constrained environment of smart cards, featuring a reduced API, limited memory, and specialized security features.

Q: How safe is Java Card technology?
A: Java Card security is evaluated under the Common Criteria (CC) methodology. Many platforms achieve security levels of EAL1+; however, none have yet been certified at EAL4+—a level often required for high-security banking applications.

Q: What is Open Platform (and Visa Open Platform)?
A: Open Platform is a set of cross-industry technical specifications for secure smart card systems. Initially defined by Visa, it now provides a standardized framework (managed by GlobalPlatform) for multi-application card management across various operating systems.

Q: How do I load an applet using Open Platform?
A:
 1. Load the CAP file onto the card using a load script (which segments the CAP file and issues an INSTALL LOAD command followed by successive LOAD commands).
 2. Instantiate the applet with an INSTALL command.
The specific sequence may vary depending on the tools used.

Q: How can I prevent an applet from reinstalling if it already exists on the smart card?
A: According to GlobalPlatform specifications (version 2.1.1+), attempting to reinstall an applet with an existing AID results in the Card Manager rejecting the installation with error code 6985 (“Conditions of use not satisfied”). There is no override option.

Q: What does the status word “6E00” mean when sending a command?
A: The code “6E00” indicates “Class not supported.” Typically, the CLA (class) byte should be one of 0x00, 0xA0, 0xC0, or 0xF0 (sometimes with a 0x0C mask indicating secure messaging). The only generally invalid CLA is 0xFF.

Q: How can a Java Card retrieve a smart card’s unique identifier (GUID/UUID)?
A: There is no universal standard for GUID/UUID on smart cards. For example, SIM cards use the content of the EF_ICCID file (as per ETSI TS 102 221) for identification. GUID/UUID availability depends on the manufacturer and specific application.

Q: What does error “6D00” indicate when selecting an app via APDU tools?
A: The error “6D00” signals a “bad instruction” (an incorrect INS byte).

────────────────────────────── SECTION 5: OPERATIONAL TEMPERATURE & CARD ADMINISTRATION

Operational Temperature of SIM Cards
Q: What are the operational temperature ranges for your SIM cards?
A:
 • Standard UICC SIMs: –25°C to +85°C
 • Extended-range SIMs (for industrial/machine use): –40°C to +105°C
These ranges comply with ETSI TS 102 221 standards.

Q: Some files appear as “Unknown” in Card Admin. Why?
A: This may occur because:
 • The Card Admin software needs an update.
 • The file is proprietary to a specific card type (for example, a file that stores the authentication key).
 • The file format is nonstandard.
Updating your Card Admin software or consulting the documentation for that card type may resolve the issue.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 6: IMS SERVICES & ALGORITHMS

Q: Do I need an ISIM application in my SIM card for VoLTE and IMS services?
A: Not necessarily. An ISIM provides a dedicated storage area for IMS credentials (such as IMPI, IMPU, and P-CSCF address). However, if absent, most devices use the USIM to derive IMS credentials and perform IMS authentication (via EAP-AKA or AKA’). Some networks may require ISIM for full functionality.

Q: Do your SIM cards support the A3/A8 algorithm?
A: Yes, our cards support the implementation requirements for A3/A8. Note that “A3/A8” refers to the functions of authentication (A3) and key generation (A8) rather than a single algorithm. Specific implementations vary by network operator, and example algorithms are available based on 3GPP TS 43.020.

Q: Could you please provide the unblock codes for ADM1 and ADMx?
A: For security reasons, unblock codes are not provided. If an ADM code becomes blocked, related SIM operations cannot be executed, and the issue is irreversible.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 7: ORDERING, SHIPPING & PAYMENT

Order and Shipping Information
Q: Do you offer volume discounts for large projects?
A: For orders of 1,000 pieces or more per item, please send a promotion request to order@smartjac.com for a customized quotation.

Q: Do you ship worldwide?
A: Yes, we serve customers globally and can ship to any country as requested.

Q: Which regions do you deliver to?
A: We deliver across Europe, the USA, Asia, South America, Africa, and more, based on your specific requirements.

Q: What are your estimated delivery times?
A:
 • Order confirmation to dispatch: approximately 3–4 working days
 • Dispatched orders typically arrive within 48–72 hours
For precise details, contact order@smartjac.com.

Q: Do you offer free shipping?
A: No. However, you may opt to use your own shipping service (e.g., FedEx, DHL, UPS) by providing your shipment account details at order@smartjac.com.

Q: Can I modify my delivery address after placing an order?
A: Yes. If you need to change your address before shipment, please email the updated details to order@smartjac.com.

Q: What should I do if the package is delivered to the wrong person?
A: Request shipment proof (including a signed receipt) from order@smartjac.com and notify us immediately with the correct details.

Q: Who is your delivery partner?
A: We work with global courier services such as FedEx, DHL, UPS, and The Swedish Post. You may also choose to use your own shipment service.

Order Tracking and Communication
Q: How can I track my order or contact the courier?
A: Once your order is dispatched, you will receive a tracking number by email. You can also access real-time updates—including production and shipment details—via our customer portal. For access or further queries, contact support@smartjac.com.

Q: How will I be notified when my order is shipped?
A: An email with the Airway Bill (AWB) number will be sent upon dispatch. Continuous tracking is also available through our customer portal.

Q: Where do I find my order tracking number?
A: The tracking number (AWB) is provided by email once the order is dispatched and is also visible in the customer portal.

Q: How do I track my shipment?
A: You can track your shipment by entering the AWB number on the courier’s website or by logging into our customer portal for real-time updates.

Q: What should I do if my shipment is held up in customs?
A: Contact your local customs office to resolve any clearance issues.

Q: What happens after I place an order?
A: You will receive an order confirmation along with a reference number (for example, SO1900) which serves as your order reference.

Q: How can I check or update the status of my order?
A:
 • For status updates, use our customer portal to view real-time tracking information.
 • For any changes or additions (such as adding products), email us at order@smartjac.com.

Payment Options
Q: Which payment options are available?
A: We accept payment via invoice, wire transfer, or credit card.

Q: Which currencies are accepted?
A: Payments can be made in USD, Euro, or Swedish Kronor.

Q: When will I be charged?
A: You will receive an invoice with a payment term of 30 days from the invoice date.

Q: What is your return policy?
A:
 • For any product found to be dead on arrival (DOA), request an RMA number within 14 days of receipt.
 • An RMA must accompany your return request, and our general product warranty is 1 year.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 8: EXPORT, IMPORT & COMPLIANCE INFORMATION

Export and Import Regulations
Q: What is the ECCN classification for your SIM cards in the US market?
A: In the US mass market, our SIM cards are classified under ECCN 5A992.c or 5A991.g, which governs export controls under U.S. regulations.

Q: What is the ECCN classification for your SIM cards in Europe?
A: In Europe, the classification is “NA” (not applicable) under current export control regulations.

Q: What are the Harmonized Tariff numbers for your SIM cards?
A:
 • HS Code: 85235210
 • US HTS Code: 8523.52.00.00
 • India HSN Code: 8523.52.00
These codes facilitate international customs classification.

Q: What is the Country of Origin for your SIM cards?
A: France.

Q: What are the Harmonized Tariff numbers for your SIM Editor software?
A:
 • HS Code: 8471.80
 • US HTS Code: 8471.80.9000
 • India HSN Code: 8471.90.00

Q: What is the Country of Origin for your SIM Editor software?
A: Sweden.

Additional Export & Re-export Information
Q: Where can I find additional export classification and tariff information for Smartjac products?
A: Detailed export documentation is available on our website or by contacting info@smartjac.com.

Q: What export controls apply when exporting or re-exporting Smartjac products?
A: U.S. export controls apply along with local destination laws. Exporters must ensure compliance with the U.S. Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and any host country laws.

Q: Who is responsible for obtaining export approvals?
A: The exporter or re-exporter is responsible for securing all necessary export approvals.

Q: What export restrictions should be considered before shipping Smartjac products?
A: Review U.S. embargoes, identify any restricted parties, and verify end-user and end-use restrictions (including encryption controls) as outlined in the EAR.

Q: What import control requirements should importers consider?
A: Importers must comply with all destination country customs and import regulations. It is recommended to consult a qualified customs broker to ensure full compliance.

Q: Do U.S. export controls remain in force after re-export?
A: Yes, U.S. export controls may continue to apply even after re-exporting the products.

────────────────────────────── SECTION 9: CUSTOMER PORTAL & SUPPORT

Q: Do you offer a customer portal to track orders, production, and account details?
A: Yes, our dedicated customer portal provides real-time tracking of orders, production progress, and other account details. To request access or for support, contact support@smartjac.com.

────────────────────────────── End of FAQ