3G network closure countdown begins. Are you ready?
Telstra has announced its plan to shut down the 3G network by June 2024. This is because of their customers moving from 3G to take up the benefits of newer, faster technology.
This means they are repurposing the 850MHz spectrum, currently used to provide 3G coverage, to support their latest rollout. More information on this can be found on the Telstra website.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Why is the 3G network being shut down?
Telstra has decided to move away from 3G and use the 850MHz spectrum it was on to support the rollout of newer technology. This technology is faster, has lower latency and possesses increased capacity. More information on this can be found on the Telstra website.
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What does the 3G network closure mean to me?
If your existing MiX by Powerfleet solution (or components of it) run on the 3G network, we will notify you of this and provide you with details on alternative solutions available to you. This is to ensure continuity of service from June 2024 onward when the 3G network will be switched off. Once the 3G network has been switched off, telematics devices operating on 3G will no longer be capable of providing crucial vehicle tracking data.
MiX by Powerfleet is aware of the challenges that the 3G network closure poses for your business and as your trusted partner, we will work with you to make this process as seamless and cost-effective as possible.
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The 3G network closure is not until June 2024. Why are you sending me information on this now?
MiX by Powerfleet intends to start helping you through this transition as early as possible and to keep you fully informed. We want to use the time between now and June 2024 to work proactively with you if you’re currently using our 3G network today to manage your migration to the more advanced networks.
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What do I need to do?
If your organisation is impacted by the 3G network closure, MiX by Powerfleet will notify you of this. You will need to upgrade to new, compatible hardware and as your trusted partner, MiX by Powerfleet will work with you to make the transition over to newer hardware seamless. We are prepared for this change over and we have plans in place to make the switch as easy as possible for you. We will provide support to you throughout the process to keep the impact of this transition to a minimum.
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Rather than migrate onto new technologies, can’t I just stay as I am but find another carrier?
This will not be an option. The decision to shut down the 3G network has been made by Telstra and they are driving this change in Australia in favour of its more advanced networks and other carriers will also follow suit.
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If I don’t make the switch to newer technologies will my current telematics solution work once the 3G network has been switched off?
If elements of your telematics solution operate on the 3G network, they will no longer operate when the 3G network shuts down in June 2024. Upgrades onto units which are 4G/ LTE compatible will be necessary to ensure continuity of your telematics solution.
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Can I update my solutions in advance, or will I need to wait for the 3G network to close?
Yes, you can do the update in advance. We are encouraging you to act as soon as is possible. In doing so, you can have peace of mind knowing that you have upgraded to newer technologies and that your solution will last for years to come.
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Do I need to purchase new equipment and what will I be charged?
Yes. You will need to purchase new hardware to ensure that your telematics solution continues to work once the 3G network has been shut down. The price you will be charged depends on the solution that will work for your fleet.
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How can you tell if you’re going to need to update your MiX devices or hardware?
As a MiX by Powerfleet customer, we’re going to tell you if you need to upgrade. In the coming weeks and months, we will be contacting you individually to notify you of the alternative options available.
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You say that you’ll proactively work with customers to manage the migration process. How will customers be alerted of the transition and how will you ensure it’s a smooth process?
To help avoid any unexpected lapses in fleet reporting, MiX by Powerfleet will proactively notify you of the 3G network closure in advance. We will continue to communicate specific details through email and our Customer Success Managers will be in contact with you before the network is switched off. We will work hard to ensure that you have all the information needed to take appropriate action.
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How will MiX by Powerfleet help me through the 3G migration process?
MiX by Powerfleet is committed to providing clear, advance notice and communicate about the 3G migration. We will work closely with you to manage the transition. Ultimately, you are responsible for planning any hardware upgrades within a reasonable timeframe prior to the 3G network shut down, but we will ensure that you are made aware of alternative options available to you to help in the adoption of newer technologies sooner rather than later.
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Which MiX by Powerfleet units are affected?
The list of units impacted by the 3G network closure is as follows:
- AT1330-440FT0818
- AT1340-440FT0819
- LMU30G500-G1000
- VT1305-440FT0842
- VT1305-440FT0843
- VT1330-440FT0821
- XC2610-440FT0820
- Remora 1
- Oyster 1
- FM 200
- FM 3306/16
- FM 3506/16
- FM 3606/16
- FM 3707/17
- MiX 2310 3G - 440FT0854
- MiX 4000 3G - 440FT0324
- MiX 6000 3G - 440FT0742
- MiX Vision MVR – 1004/1204/2214
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Where can I find out more information?
Check out the Telstra website or give us a call on (08) 93885800.