If you’ve purchased an iPad 3G and you want to connect to a 3G mobile network you’ll need a Micro-SIM card and a data subscription.

What is a SIM card?

SIM cards (like those found in mobile phones) are used by mobile phone companies to give you access to their mobile network.  The SIM card contains a unique number that allows the mobile phone company to identify the connection and bill you for the calls you make or the data you use.

What is a Micro-SIM card?

A micro-SIM card is exactly the same as a regular SIM card that you find in mobile phones today – the only difference is that it’s slightly smaller.  A normal SIM card is 15mm wide and 25mm long.  The micro-SIM card is 3mm thinner and 10mm shorter.

A standard SIM and a micro-SIM

A Vodafone Micro-SIM for the iPad

Why was the Micro-SIM created?

The micro-SIM was designed to work in devices that are too small to accept a regular SIM card.  They’re expected to be popular in ‘machine-to-machine’ devices, including Lok8u’s new wristwatch which includes a personal locator.

What does this have to do with the iPad?

If you’ve purchased an iPad 3G and you want to connect it to a 3G network you’ll need a micro-SIM.  The SIM card from your mobile phone will not work, as it is too big to fit inside the iPad.

Why did Apple choose a Micro-SIM?

God only knows.  The micro-SIM was designed for small devices, such as wristwatches.  The iPad is over 242mm by 190mm – there’s more than enough room to house a standard SIM card.  By choosing the micro-SIM format Apple are forcing users who already have a 3G connection (perhaps via a mobile broadband dongle) to purchase a new connection with a Micro-SIM.

I’ve already got a mobile broadband contract, what can I do?

If you’re amongst the 2 million people in the UK who already have a mobile broadband connection and want to use this in your iPad 3G you have a few choices:

• Take out a new pay as you go data connection for your iPad and ask for a micro-SIM card.
• Call your mobile phone company and see if they’ll send you a micro-SIM card
• If you’re feeling adventurous follow John’s advice and cut your current SIM card down to size.