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3G Network Closure in New Zealand

Learn what it means for your Trimble Solutions.

3G Network Closure. Telecommunication operators in New Zealand will commence the phased shutdown of their 3G networks from late 2025, with the process scheduled for completion by the beginning of 2026. This transition will affect the operational capabilities of some legacy and ageing Trimble equipment. In certain cases, an upgrade to 4G-compatible hardware will be required to preserve existing equipment functionality.

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Download detailed pdf on the 3G shutdown -> 3G Shutdown 2025

Shutdown Dates

Spark 3G Network Closures

Late 2025

2degrees 3G Network Closures

Late 2025

One NZ 3G Network Closures

December 2025

AFFECTED EQUIPMENT – DATA COLLECTORS

TSC3 – Internal 3G modem

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: ​

  • Trimble Access field software running on the controller​
  • Radio connections to total stations or other equipment​
  • Bluetooth connections to other equipment

​

TSC3 – Internal 3G modem
YUMA 2 – Internal 3G modem

YUMA 2 – Internal 3G modem

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:

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

TSC3 or YUMA2 or equivalent – Time to upgrade?

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:​

  • iPhone 4S​
  • 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.

Trimble 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.

R2/R580 – No internal modem

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
TSC5 & TSC7
T100

T100 & T7 Tablets

Modern data collectors to get back onto the latest technology:​

  • Windows 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
5G Data Collectors

FAQ’s

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?​

  • Latest field software with years of efficiency improvements that may help towards the upgrade costs.​
  • More powerful hardware and operating systems, compatibility with other modern devices and services (cloud storage)​
  • Future proof technology for at least the next decade​
  • Improved technical support – Teamviewer, software emulators, etc.
FAQs

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.

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