The benefits of Mobile SIMs that leverage Data Network based Telco Switching vs Voice Network based Telco Switching for Payment Applications

Roaming SIM cards that switch networks based on the voice network differ significantly from those that rely on the data network for switching. Here’s how they differ and the specific benefits of data-only network switching for applications like payment acceptance terminals:

Voice Network-Based Switching

These SIMs are designed primarily for devices that need voice communication. When the device roams into a new region, it relies on the voice network to identify and switch to the best available network.

This type of switching can be slower and less flexible because it requires voice network registration and often has strict roaming agreements. Additionally, voice-based roaming can have limited coverage in remote or low-signal areas where only data networks (like 4G or 5G) might be strong.

These SIMs are ideal for phones and devices needing voice calls, such as those in traditional communication settings.

Data Network-Based Switching

These SIMs are optimised for data-only communication. They actively search for and switch to the best available data network (e.g., 4G, 5G), independent of voice networks. This means they can more quickly connect to the strongest data signal available, providing consistent and reliable data access.

Benefits for Data-Only Applications:

• Enhanced Connectivity: In areas where voice networks are weak or absent, data networks are often more robust, providing better coverage, which is essential for devices like payment terminals that rely exclusively on data.
• Faster Network Switching: Without the dependency on voice roaming agreements, these SIMs can seamlessly switch between data networks, minimising downtime or connection delays.
• Greater Flexibility and Reliability: Payment terminals and similar devices gain reliable connectivity in remote or challenging environments, as data networks often have wider or more resilient coverage.
• Cost-Effective: By not requiring voice functionality, these SIMs reduce costs associated with voice network charges, which is beneficial for high-volume, data-only devices.

In essence, for applications like payment terminals that only require data, SIMs using data network-based switching are more efficient, reliable, and cost-effective, ensuring these devices maintain consistent connectivity regardless of location.

To learn how Transaction Network Services (TNS) can help solve your business' Mobile SIM connectivity challenges, please check out TNS' Managed Connectivity for Payment Terminals and IoT Devices web page. On this page, you can view TNS' informative GWA SIM card Product Video, TNS' GWA SIM card product sheet and TNS' GWA SIM card ebook.

If you want to book in a session with one of TNS' solution specialists, then please reach out directly by DM, to John Mogg .

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