What is unlocking and why would I want to do it?
An unlocked phone is one that can be used on all networks operating on the frequency the phone is designed for. For example, in the UK there are four main networks, Vodafone, BT Cellnet, Orange and One2One. Vodafone and BT Cellnet operate on GSM900, while Orange and One2One operate on GSM1800. A UK dual band phone can operate on GSM900 and GSM1800, therefore being capable of working on all the networks.
However, as the networks don't want to lose you as a customer, when they supply the phone (on contract or pay as you go) it can be locked to only accept SIM cards from their network.
If you wish to use a SIM from a different network, the phone needs to be unlocked.
How do I know if my phone is locked?
There are two ways to check if your phone is unlocked. Firstly, if you have a working SIM from a different network, try putting that into the phone and switching it on. If the phone works and you can make calls on that network, congratulations, your phone is already unlocked. If a message appears, saying "SIM card not accepted" or similar, the phone is probably locked.
How do I unlock my phone?
Unlocking phones requires the use of a PC, an compatible data cable and the appropriate software but due to the new versions of Sharp handsets we have also included the unlocking clip. We have provided a rough procedure on how to unlock the handset which will be illustrated below. If you wish to purchase a unlocking clip or cable & software then click here.
What phones can be unlocked at the moment?
Sharp - GX10 All Versions Sharp - GX1 All Versions Sharp - GX10i All Versions
All above applies to contract & non contract handsets
How do I unlock the handset?
If you have purchased the correct unlocking clips or unlocking cable and software then we have provided a simple guide to unlock your handset. We have provide the clip procedure and the cable and software procedure..
Sharp GX10i & GX10 Unlocking via Clip.
Turn of the handset first
- Connect the batteries to the clip.
- Turn the handset off
- Connect the handset to the clip
- Turn on the handset
- Press the button on the clip
- Within about 10 seconds the phone shouldbe unlocked
Sharp GX10 Unlocking via Cable & Software
Turn of the handset first
- Turn the handset off
- Connect the handset to the cable then to the PC
- Run the software
- Power on the handset
- Press the unlock button on the software
- The handset will proceed into “Test Mode” then start to unlock
- after a few seconds the handset will unlock
If you do have problems with this then please don’t email us.
This unlocking solutions can be purchased from Modifications
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