3G Network Closure in New Zealand

Learn what it means for your Trimble Solutions.

3G Network Shutdown. New Zealand telecommunications providers will begin shutting down their 3G networks in phases starting late 2025, with full completion expected by early 2026. This change will impact the performance of older Trimble equipment that relies on 3G connectivity. Some legacy devices will need hardware upgrades to 4G-compatible units to maintain their current functionality.

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

Shutdown Dates

Late 2025

Late 2025

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

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.

Equipment – GNSS

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.

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

T100 & T7 Tablets

Modern data collectors to get back into the latest technology:

Windows OS
4G internal modem
Latest version of Trimble Access field software

4G 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

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.

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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Please contact our team of specialist for further information required

Call 0800 4748 324

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