A cell phone SIM card. SIM stands for "subscriber identity module."
A Nokia 5300, when purchased from the T-Mobile carrier, comes "locked." This way, you cannot just switch to a different company for your phone service. If you want to use your phone with a different carrier, you will need to get an unlocking code. You can get this from T-Mobile, provided you have met certain criteria with regards to your contract, or you can purchase one.
Instructions
1. Buy a SIM card from a different network. You can get one for $20 at a mobile phone or convenience store.
2. Turn on the Nokia 5300 phone. Type *#06# on the phone's keypad. Wait for the IMEI (international mobile equipment identification) number to appear on your screen. Write down the number. Keep this number, because you will be using it to unlock your phone.
3. Call 611 or 800-937-8997. This is the T-Mobile customer support number. Ask the responder for an unlocking code for your Nokia 5300. She may give you one provided that your service has been active for 90 days or more. You will be asked for your IMEI.
4. Buy your unlock code. In some cases, T-Mobile may not be willing to give you an unlock code. In this case you will need to purchase one from an online vendor (see resource links). As of 2010, a single code cost $15 to $20.
5. Turn off your Nokia 5300 phone. Remove the old SIM card and replace it with the new SIM card. Turn the Nokia 5300 back on.
6. Enter the unlocking code number that T-Mobile or another vendor has provided. Press the "OK" button on your phone. The phone will restart in a second. Wait for it. Once it has restarted, the phone should be unlocked.
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