Consider the following statements regarding Subscriber Identification ...
The Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) cards are the ID cards of the cellular world, and they have evolved in step with cellular networks.
- It is an integrated circuit, or a microchip that identifies the subscriber on a given network.
- In order for a mobile phone to connect to any cellular network that follows the Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) standard, a SIM card is mandatory.
- This relationship is established using a unique authentication key – a piece of data that a user needs to ‘unlock’ access to the network.
- Every SIM card stores this data and it is designed such that the user can’t access it through their phone.
- Instead, signals sent by the phone into the network are ‘signed’ by the key, and the network uses the signature to understand whether the phone’s connection is legitimate.
- SIM cards also store information about its own ID number (the integrated circuit card identifier), the IMSI, the subscriber’s location area identity (i.e. their current location), a list of preferred networks (to whom the subscriber can connect when roaming), emergency numbers.
- SIM cards are designed according to the ISO/IEC 7816 international standard maintained by the International Organisation for Standardisation and the International Electrotechnical Commission.
- It applies to electronic identification cards, including smart cards.
Hence both statements are correct.
Consider the following statements regarding Subscriber Identification ...
Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card:
The Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card is a small microchip that is inserted into a cellular device to identify and authenticate the subscriber on a given cellular network. It stores the subscriber's unique identification information and enables the user to access the network services provided by their mobile network operator (MNO).
Statement 1: It is a microchip that identifies the subscriber on a given cellular network.
This statement is correct. The primary function of a SIM card is to identify the subscriber on a cellular network. When a user inserts a SIM card into their mobile device and powers it on, the SIM card communicates with the network to establish the user's identity and authenticate their access to network services. The SIM card contains the subscriber's IMSI (International Mobile Subscriber Identity) number, which is used to uniquely identify the subscriber on the network.
Statement 2: These are designed according to the International Electrotechnical Commission standards.
This statement is also correct. SIM cards are designed and manufactured according to the standards set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). The IEC is an international standards organization that develops and publishes standards for various electrical and electronic technologies. The IEC standards ensure that SIM cards are interoperable and compatible with mobile devices and networks worldwide.
The IEC standards specify the physical and electrical characteristics of SIM cards, including their size (e.g., standard SIM, micro SIM, nano SIM), contact arrangements, and electrical interfaces. These standards ensure that SIM cards can be used in a wide range of mobile devices and can be easily swapped between devices or networks.
Conclusion:
Both the statements regarding the Subscriber Identification Module (SIM) card are correct. SIM cards are indeed microchips that identify subscribers on cellular networks, and they are designed according to the standards set by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).
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