dataroam frequently asked questions

How does it work?

We provide you with a SIM card which works in any unlocked device around the world to access the Internet cheaply. Simply top it up here on the portal with a prepaid data bundle of your choosing, by selecting the zone you will use it in and the size of the bundle you require. This bundle will last for 30 days, and then you are free to top it up again as many times as you wish.

Do I need to register or to activate the SIM?

No registration or activation is required with this SIM. Just purchase a data bundle of your choice on this portal, and then pop the SIM into your device to start using the Internet.

Phone Unlocking

You need to check that your phone is not locked to your current provider. If you aren't sure if it is then the simplest way to check this is to put a SIM card from a different operator into your phone and see if it still works. If this works your phone is not locked. If your phone is locked you can get it unlocked by your operator or from local phone shops.

What type of devices can the data SIM card be used with?

Please ensure that your device is unlocked and not tied to a network. There are no restrictions on what device it can be used in. The SIM works with all smartphones and tablets - if inserted to a USB dongle or MiFi mobile hotspot device you can connect your laptop computer to receive data.

Should data roaming be turned on or off?

For any device which the SIM is inside, data roaming must be switched on, therefore if you are inserting the SIM directly into your smartphone or tablet computer then you should turn data roaming on.

If you are using the SIM card with an external device such as a MiFi to broadcast data to your smartphone or tablet computer, we recommend that data roaming is turned off in your phone, but on in the MiFi. This is to ensure that you don't accidentally use the Internet on your phone's internal SIM.

Can I use the data SIM for calls and SMS?

No this SIM card is only enabled for data.

How can I use voice and SMS on my device?

If you want to use voice function we recommend using a DualSIM phone or a MiFi device. The DualSIM phone will split the data and voice between the respective SIM cards allowing you to maintain full functionality while abroad.

Alternatively using a MiFi device to "tether" the data so that your phone can pick the signal up just like it would pick up a normal WiFi network. Once you switch off data roaming on your phone you can use the data services and maintain normal voice functionality through your handset.

There are a range of apps available such as Skype and WhatsApp that allow you to use voice and text functionality. You only need a data connection to access these services so the data SIM doesn't exclude you from this.

Do I need to change any settings?

In most countries no APN (Access Point Name) settings are required for this SIM, however if you have any issues connecting to the Internet then try changing the APN name to "fast.m2m", and leave the username and password blank. The settings are likely to be in the Cellular Data section of your device.

Can I buy Micro or Nano sized SIM cards?

Yes the data SIM is available in any size to fit all devices. Please read your operator's manual if you are unsure which size you need.

Does the SIM card expire?

The SIM card will only expire if it is not used for a one year period.

How do I check my usage?

There is a live usage monitor in the 'My SIMs' section of this site. We will also send email alerts to your registered email addresses. You can add registered email addresses at any time, but may not remove the master account email address.

Can I change my bundle?

If your bundle has expired or all of the data allowance has been used up, you are free to buy any new bundle for any zone. If you wish to change your bundle mid-term, then please see the below question.

I want to change my Zone before my bundle has been used up/expired, what can I do?

You will be able to upgrade the remaining data allowance in your bundle to be usable in the new zone. The top up portal will make it clear how much data you have left and how much this will cost, and you can pay by any of the approved payment methods. This functionality will be ready in April 2014.

Do I need to set up an account?

This is optional, but we would recommend doing so. There are many benefits such as access to live usage, email notifications and the ability to link many SIMs under one account. It will also help you to top up in future if you forget or lose your SIM ID.