3G NETWORK CLOSURE IN AUSTRALIA

Discover the impact on your Trimble Solutions.

Closure of the 3G Network. Australian Telcos are commencing the shutdown of their 3G networks starting from December 15, 2023, with completion expected by June 30, 2024. This transition will affect legacy and some older Trimble equipment. In certain cases, upgrading to 4G-capable hardware will be necessary to retain the current functionality of your devices.

3G Network Closure

Shutdown Dates

3G Network Closure

30th June 2024

Optus Network Closure

September 2024

Vodaphone 3G Network Closure

December 2023

Affected Equipment – Data Collectors

TSC3 – Internal 3G modem

Launched in 2011, the TSC3 comes equipped with an internal 3G modem that will no longer be capable of internet connectivity following the shutdown, even with a SIM card inserted. This change will primarily impact GNSS surveys utilising VRS services or clients utilising Trimble Connect (or similar remote data transfer solutions). It’s important to note that this shutdown will not affect the connection between the instrument and controller, but rather the ability to download position correction data and access the internet.

The following aspects will remain unaffected by the shutdown:

  • Trimble Access field software operation on the controller
  • Radio connections to total stations or other equipment
  • Bluetooth connections to other devices
TSC3 – Internal 3G modem
YUMA 2 – Internal 3G modem

YUMA 2 – Internal 3G modem

Debuted in 2012, the YUMA 2 boasts an internal 3G modem that will lose internet connectivity post-shutdown, even with a SIM card inserted. This change primarily impacts GNSS surveys utilising VRS services or users of Trimble Connect (or similar remote data transfer solutions). Notably, this shutdown will not disrupt the connection between the instrument and controller, but rather the download of position correction data and internet access.

The shutdown will have no impact on:

  • Trimble Access field software operation on the controller.
  • Radio connections to total stations or other equipment.
  • Bluetooth connections to other devices.

TSC3 or YUMA2 or equivalent – Time to upgrade?

The TSC3 has held a prominent position in the surveying industry in Australia for more than a decade.

Designated for end-of-life in 2021, replacement parts have become scarce or unavailable. Despite this, we still witness them being used sacrificially to keep other equipment operational.

Trimble Access field software on the TSC3 is limited to Version 2017, lacking over 6 years’ worth of feature updates and tools available in newer devices.

To provide context, the TSC3 was released in the same year as the iPhone 4S and Samsung Galaxy S2.

Equipment – Total Stations

Trimble Total Stations will NOT be affected by the closure. Connections via Bluetooth or UHF radio will continue to work, an internet connection is not required for total station surveys.

Total Stations

Equipment – GNSS

R12 – Internal 3G modem

R12 – Internal 3G modem

The R12 may be affected if a SIM card is installed in the receiver. The SIM card can instead be installed into a 4G or 5G controller.

R780 – No internal modem

R780 – No internal modem

Not affected by the closure.

R580

R2/R580 – No internal modem

Not affected by the closure.

R750 – Internal 4G modem

R750 – Internal 4G modem

Not affected by the closure.

4G Data Collectors

TSC5 & TSC7

Modern data collectors to get back into the latest technology:

  • Android OS
  • 4G internal modem
  • Latest version of Trimble Access field software

5G Data Collector
T100

T100 & T7 Tablets

Modern data collectors to get back onto the latest technology:

  • Android OS
  • 4G internal modem
  • Latest version of Trimble Access field software
T7

5G Data Collectors

TDC6 Handheld

Modern data collectors to get back onto the latest technology:

  • Releasing in 2024
  • Android OS
  • 5G internal modem
  • Latest version of Trimble Access field software
TDC6 Handheld

FAQ’s

Can I bypass 4G altogether?

Yes, by upgrading to a 5G compatible device. Ensure your SIM/plan is 5G ready.

If I don’t use the internet on my 3G equipment, is transitioning necessary?

No, but consider exploring the latest in survey technology. Older technology becomes less repairable over time, so planning a gradual equipment transition can be less stressful than waiting for a critical incident to occur.

What are the primary benefits of transitioning?

  • Access to the latest field software with years of efficiency improvements, which can contribute towards offsetting the upgrade costs.
  • Utilization of more powerful hardware and operating systems, enhancing compatibility with other modern devices and services such as cloud storage.
  • Future-proof technology for at least the next decade.
  • Improved technical support options like Teamviewer and software emulators.

Do I HAVE to upgrade all of my equipment?

No, if your equipment setup does not require an internet connection, it will continue to function as usual. However, if internet connectivity is needed, the part with the 3G modem must be upgraded or the SIM card transferred to a compatible 4G device.

Can I use my TSC3 as a hotspot for my phone?

Unlikely, as the technology gap widens between mobile hotspot networks and older devices, compatibility eventually reaches a limit.

Modern phone security protocols are too advanced for older controllers and may not establish a connection. While it might work with some phone models for now, it’s not guaranteed.

What happens to my current data plan if I upgrade?

Your data plan remains unaffected; the SIM card is transferred to the new controller, which should connect seamlessly. The main concern might be the SIM card size, as your provider may upgrade it free of charge. Ensure to confirm that your SIM/plan is 4G/5G ready.

Can I forgo 4G entirely?

Yes, if you upgrade to a 5G compatible device. Ensure to verify if your SIM/plan is 5G ready.

If I don’t utilise the internet on my 3G equipment, is transitioning necessary?

No, it is not necessary, but it presents an opportunity to explore the latest advancements in survey technology. As older technology becomes less repairable over time, planning an equipment transition gradually can be less stressful than waiting for an incident that could leave you without functioning equipment.

What are the main advantages of transitioning?

  • Access to the latest field software with years of efficiency improvements, which can help offset the upgrade costs.
  • Utilization of more powerful hardware and operating systems, enhancing compatibility with other modern devices and services such as cloud storage.
  • Future-proof technology for at least the next decade.
  • Improved technical support options like Teamviewer, software emulators, and more.
3G Network Closure

Trade Up

Legacy Controller (TSC3) Trade-Up

Trade in a legacy Trimble Controller against a current TSC5 or TSC7 to ensure you have no disruption from the 3G network shutdown.  No new receiver required.

$1,500 trade in of hardware for old unit + 1-year free Trimble Access & VRS Now Subscription.

Legacy Controller
GNSS Rover Trade-Up

Trade Up

Any Legacy or Competitive GNSS Rover Trade-Up

Trade in a legacy or 3rd party GNSS Rover Kit against a current industry leading R12i or R580 Rover Kit.

$10,000 trade in for any 3rd party rover or legacy rover kit to a new Trimble R12i kit with TSC7 or TSC5 with EM410 radio module & 1-year free Trimble Access & VRSNow Subscription.

$7,000 trade in for any 3rd party rover or legacy rover kit to a new Trimble R750 kit with TSC7 or TSC5 with EM410 radio module & 1-year free Trimble Access & VRSNow Subscription.

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