The tablet does not see the SIM card: causes and ways to solve the problem

Despite the fact that tablets are not always equipped with a telephone module, the presence of a SIM card slot is considered by many to be an indisputable advantage, especially considering the expansion of 3G / 4G network coverage. Currently, when most users prefer to communicate through various managers, including the implementation of telephone conversations, such a functional supplement fades into the background. But while the wireless Internet connection has only local distribution, in urban environments the 3G / 4G network receiving modules are still in great demand, as they allow not to worry about the availability of the Internet connection and not to worry about searching for a free access point. But, unfortunately, it is not always so simple. In this article, we will discuss the situation when the tablet simply refuses to “see” the installed SIM card, which levels all attempts to call or get an active Internet connection. What are the reasons, and most importantly - how to find an appropriate solution? You will find answers to these and other questions below.

Solution of the problem: the tablet does not see the SIM card.

The reasons

For a start, it is worth noting that the situation under consideration has exactly the same reasons and solutions that are provided for a similar problem when using a conventional smartphone. This similarity is especially acute on devices from the “masters from under heaven”, who offer their buyers an abundance of built-in modules and functionality for a “meager” price. But such a “cheap vinaigrette” can and will definitely have certain “pitfalls”, since the enormous difference in the market price imposes a certain quality framework for the final product. In cheap smartphones and tablets almost always there are no obligatory pre-installed settings, the presence of which ensures the proper operation of the sim card, and most importantly - the operability of the network and its actual finding / determination. The solution of this question will be discussed later.

A causal relationship can manifest itself as a result of a hardware problem, both on the side of the SIM card itself and on the side of the tablet, for example, the module itself or the SIM slot is faulty. In addition, as many probably know, many mobile operators release gadgets under their own brand (Beeline, Megafon, MTS), and set certain restrictions on the use of SIM-cards from other operators. It is logical, because who wants to “feed” competitors. This restrictive function “sim-lock” blocks the very possibility of recognizing components, the release of which is not the developer / manufacturer of the device itself, and this is precisely what leads to the situation considered in this article. And now it's time to touch on the main questions: “How to fix it all? And is it possible in principle?

Solution options

The key to solving any problem is determining the causal relationship. As mentioned above, in this situation there can be several main reasons. Therefore, the first thing that needs to be done by any user is to reliably determine what influenced the performance of the device.

New tablet and / or not previously used with a SIM card

First, you need to refer to the documentation (user manual) and familiarize yourself with the information on what limitations (and if there are any) when using the tablet in such a role. If there are no restrictions, you should visually inspect the SIM card for mechanical damage, as well as to make sure that it is inserted into the slot correctly. Trifle, but it happens. It will also be good to try using a SIM in another device in order to make sure that it works. Particular attention should be paid to the integrity of the SIM in cases where already outdated models are cut off to modern standards with their own hands, and it is not uncommon for such careless actions to damage it. The best option would be to contact the mobile operator of your carrier and get a new card with saving the phone number.

Previously used

Solutions are standard for this situation, namely:

  • Carefully remove the card and inspect it and the slot for it on the device for damage.
  • Reboot your device and make sure that the correct date / time settings are set.
  • Check if you have “Flight Mode” enabled, which blocks the communication line.
  • Check if the data transfer mode is enabled in your operating system settings.

At this point you should pay special attention, as previously mentioned that the "Chinese gadgets" can be supplied without preset settings or can be configured exclusively to "local operators". Therefore, in the network settings, you should disable automatic search and set the appropriate operator settings manually. You can find them on the official website of the cellular operator or in the documentation for the SIM.

  • Try disabling the wireless connection (if enabled). Perhaps the settings are set prioritization, and access to the mobile Internet is simply not available.
  • Check for updates for the operating system of your tablet, perhaps the problem is massive and has been fixed in the latest patches.
  • Make sure that there is no software in the operating system, which theoretically can affect the correctness of the module operation. For example, various "dialers", which are in abundance in official stores, and from third-party developers. In particular, special attention should be paid to checking for the presence of virus software by installing appropriate anti-virus applications.

Conclusion

The final solution to this problem is to reset the settings to factory settings, as well as a more detailed check of the device configuration using the “more privileged” software and its actual flashing. If you can reset the settings yourself in the corresponding section of the menu, then working with two other variations requires a certain skill and, accordingly, software tools. Therefore, summarizing all the above. If you are faced with the fact that the tablet refuses to see the SIM card, you should ensure that there are no physical damages on both sides, eliminate possible “standard software problems” and contact the service center for qualified technical assistance.