3G Network Closure. Australian Telcos will begin shutting down their 3G networks from December 15 2023 and it’s scheduled to be complete by June 30 2024. This will have an impact on legacy and some ageing Trimble equipment. In some instances there will be a need to update to 4G capable hardware in order to maintain current functionality of your equipment.
Download detailed pdf on the 3G shutdown -> 3G Shutdown 2024
Released in 2011, the TSC3 has an internal 3G modem that won’t be able to connect to the internet after the shutdown even with a SIM card. This will mostly affect GNSS surveys using VRS services or customers using Trimble Connect (or other remote data transfer solutions). The shutdown does not affect the connection between the instrument and controller, just the downloading of position correction information and internet connectivity
The shutdown will not affect:
Released in 2012, the YUMA 2 has an internal 3G modem that won’t be able to connect to the internet after the shutdown even with a SIM card. This will mostly affect GNSS surveys using VRS services or customers using Trimble Connect (or other remote data transfer solutions). The shutdown does not affect the connection between the instrument and controller, just the downloading of position correction information and internet connectivity.
The shutdown will not affect:
The TSC3 has had over 10 years at the forefront of the surveying industry in Australia.
It was designated for end-of-life in 2021 and now replacement parts are sparse or no-longer available. We still see them sacrificed for the survival of others.
Trimble Access field software on the TSC3 stops at Version 2017, there are over 6 years of feature updates and tools outside of the TSC3’s capability.
In comparison, the TSC3 was released in the same year as:
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.
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
Not affected by the closure.
R2/R580 – No internal modem
Not affected by the closure.
R750 – Internal 4G modem
Not affected by the closure.
Modern data collectors to get back into the latest technology:
Modern data collectors to get back onto the latest technology:
Modern data collectors to get back onto the latest technology:
Can I skip 4G altogether?
Yes, if you upgrade to a 5G compatible device. You may need to confirm your SIM/plan is 5G ready.
If I don’t use the internet on my 3G equipment, do I need to transition?
No, but you may take the opportunity to see the latest in survey technology. The older technology gets the less likely it can be repaired, so planning an equipment transition over a period will be less stressful than waiting for an incident that leaves you down on equipment.
What are the key benefits of transitioning?
Do I NEED to upgrade all my equipment?
No, if there is no internet connection required for your equipment setup then it will continue to work as normal. If there is an internet connection required, the part with the 3G modem must be upgraded or the SIM moved to a compatible 4G device.
Can I hotspot the TSC3 to my phone?
Not likely, as the technology gap between mobile hotspot networks and older devices grows the compatibility reaches an end point.
Security protocols on modern phones are too advanced for older controllers and will not connect. It may work with some model phones for the time being.
What happens to my current data plan if I upgrade?
Nothing, the SIM card is moved across and the new controller should connect. SIM sizing is the main issue, your provider may upgrade your SIM free of charge. You may need to confirm your SIM/plan is 4G/5G ready.
Can I skip 4G altogether?
Yes, if you upgrade to a 5G compatible device. You may need to confirm your SIM/plan is 5G ready.
If I don’t use the internet on my 3G equipment, do I need to transition?
No, but you may take the opportunity to see the latest in survey technology. The older technology gets the less likely it can be repaired, so planning an equipment transition over a period will be less stressful than waiting for an incident that leaves you down on equipment.
What are the key benefits of transitioning?
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.
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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