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ToggleBlank LTE/5G SIM Cards & Programming Tools for 5G SA (Open5GS) Deployments
HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED (HKCARD) provides specialized blank LTE/5G SIM card solutions and professional programming tools designed for 5G SA (Standalone) network deployments, specifically targeting integration with open-source core platforms like Open5GS. Our SIM blank batch products support the critical XOR/Milenage authentication algorithms, enabling full customization of IMSI, KI, and OPC codes required for secure 5G SA operation.
1. The Challenge: Provisioning SIMs for 5G SA & Open5GS
Deploying a 5G SA (Standalone) network using an open-source core like Open5GS requires complete control over SIM card credentials. Unlike public operator networks, private 5G SA deployments need SIMs that are:
- Factory-blank with no preloaded operator data.
- Algorithm-flexible, specifically supporting XOR and Milenage authentication.
- Fully writable for custom IMSI (Subscriber Identity), KI (Authentication Key), and OPC (Operator Code) values.
- Compatible with standard SIM card programmer tools for bulk provisioning.
HKCARD addresses these exact requirements with our blank LTE/5G SIM cards and integrated programming solution.
2. HKCARD’s Solution: Blank SIM Batch + Industrial Programmer
A. Blank LTE/5G SIM Cards (SIM Blank Batch)
Our blank SIM cards are manufactured as a clean slate, ideal for 5G SA deployments. Key features include:
- Algorithm Support: Native support for XOR and Milenage authentication algorithms, ensuring compatibility with Open5GS and other 3GPP-compliant cores.
- Full Programmability: Write and rewrite essential parameters:
- IMSI – International Mobile Subscriber Identity
- KI – 128-bit Authentication Key
- OPC – Operator Variant Algorithm Configuration (derived from OP)
- ICCID – SIM Serial Number
- MCC/MNC – Mobile Country/Network Code
- 5G SA Ready: Fully compliant with 3GPP Release 16 for 5G Standalone mode, including SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier) support.
- Form Factors: Available in 2FF (Standard), 3FF (Micro), 4FF (Nano), and 3-in-1 triple-cut formats.
- Memory Options: 128K, 256K, and 512K EEPROM to accommodate various profile complexities.
B. Industrial USB SIM Card Reader/Writer with PC Software
To enable efficient SIM programming, HKCARD supplies a robust Industrial USB SIM Card Reader/Writer paired with dedicated PC software.
- Hardware: Durable USB interface reader compatible with all standard SIM form factors (2FF/3FF/4FF).
- Software: Intuitive Windows-based SIM Personalize Tools that support:
- Reading and writing IMSI, KI, OPC, ICCID, MCC, MNC, SPN.
- Batch programming mode for bulk SIM provisioning.
- Verification and checksum validation.
- Export/import of parameter files for automation.
- Compatibility: Works with PC/SC drivers, integrates with pySim, and supports standard SIM card programming workflows.
- Use Case: Perfect for lab setups, pilot deployments, and mass production of 5G SA SIMs for Open5GS or similar cores.
3. Technical Specifications for 5G SA Blank SIMs
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Blank Programmable USIM/5G SIM Card |
| Network Support | 4G LTE, 5G NR (SA & NSA), WCDMA, GSM (fallback) |
| 5G SA Features | SUCI support, 5G AKA algorithm, 3GPP R16 compliant |
| Authentication | XOR & Milenage (OP/OPc) algorithms |
| Writable Fields | IMSI, KI, OPC, ICCID, MCC, MNC, SPN, ADM, PUK |
| Memory Size | 128K / 256K / 512K EEPROM |
| Form Factor | 2FF, 3FF, 4FF, 3-in-1 Triple-Cut |
| Operating System | Native COS (Java Card optional) |
| Interface | ISO 7816 (Contact) |
| Programming Tool | Industrial USB Reader/Writer + PC Software (Windows) |
| Quality | ISO 9001, ETSI/3GPP, CE, FCC, RoHS |
4. How It Works: Programming for Open5GS 5G SA
- Prepare Parameters: Define your 5G SA network credentials: MCC, MNC, IMSI range, KI keys, and OPC values derived from your operator secret OP.
- Connect Hardware: Insert a blank SIM card from the SIM blank batch into the Industrial USB Reader/Writer.
- Use Software: Launch the PC software, select the card, and input/write the IMSI, KI, OPC, and other parameters.
- Verify & Repeat: The software verifies the write. Repeat for each SIM in your bulk SIM batch.
- Deploy to Open5GS: The programmed SIMs are now ready for use with your Open5GS core. The XOR/Milenage authentication will match your 5G SA HSS/AUSF configuration.
Note: The XOR algorithm is often used in test environments and some regional deployments, while Milenage is
3. Supported SIM Card Algorithms & Security Profiles
HKCARD’s programmable SIM cards and programming tools support the full range of authentication algorithms used in global and regional mobile networks, giving you the flexibility to deploy in any environment.
Note: The XOR algorithm (often referred to as COMP128) is frequently used in test environments, legacy 2G networks, and some regional deployments due to its simplicity and lower computational requirements. In contrast, Milenage is the globally standardized, cryptographically stronger algorithm mandated for 3G, 4G LTE, and 5G NR networks, providing robust mutual authentication and security.
Algorithm Support Summary:
| Algorithm | Primary Use Case | HKCARD Support |
|---|---|---|
| Milenage | 3G UMTS, 4G LTE, 5G NR (Global Standard) | ✅ Full support for OP/OPc, f1-f5 functions |
| COMP128-1 / 2 / 3 (XOR-based) | 2G GSM, some legacy 3G, test labs | ✅ Full support for Ki, SRES, Kc generation |
| CAVE | CDMA/EVDO, RUIM/UIM cards | ✅ Supported on CDMA/RUIM variants |
| Custom / Proprietary | Private network security policies | ✅ Configurable via Java Card applets |
Key Point: With HKCARD’s re-programmable SIM cards, you can select and configure the exact algorithm your target network requires—whether it’s Milenage for a modern 5G SA core or XOR/COMP128 for a legacy GSM test bench—all through the same programming interface.
4. Technical Specifications & Quality Assurance
- Chip Memory: 128K, 256K, 512K EEPROM options.
- Operating System: Native COS or Java Card 3.0.1 Classic for custom applets.
- Form Factors: 2FF (Standard), 3FF (Micro), 4FF (Nano-USIM), 3-in-1 triple-cut, and MFF2 chip modules.
- Certifications: ISO 7816, ISO 14443 (contactless), CE, FCC, RoHS.
- Manufacturing: ISO 9001:2015 and ETSI/3GPP compliant processes.
- Security: Secure key injection, anti-cloning protection, and tamper-resistant design.
- Endurance: Minimum 100,000 write/erase cycles for EEPROM.
5. Applications & Target Users
- Telecom R&D Labs: Testing core network functions with Open5GS/srsRAN; validating algorithm implementations (Milenage vs. XOR).
- MVNO Startups: Programming white label SIM cards with custom IMSI ranges and SPN for pilot launches.
- IoT & M2M Developers: Loading device credentials into MFF2 chip SIMs or plastic SIMs for private networks.
- Private/Enterprise Network Operators: Creating custom IMSI ranges and selecting XOR or Milenage based on core network requirements for campus 4G/5G.
- Universities & Research: Teaching mobile network security, comparing XOR vs. Milenage authentication, and protocol development.
- Security Auditors: Validating SIM-based authentication in penetration tests across different algorithm suites.
- Device Manufacturers: Pre-personalizing SIMs for routers, gateways, and modules destined for global markets.
6. Why Choose HKCARD for SIM Programming Tools?
✅ Algorithm Flexibility: Support for both Milenage (global standard) and XOR/COMP128 (test/regional) on the same hardware platform.
✅ True Sysmocom Compatibility: Drop-in replacements for sysmoISIM-SJA2, sysmoUSIM-SJS1 in form, file system, and algorithm behavior.
✅ Re-Programmable & Flexible: Not one-time burn; supports multiple write cycles for iterative development.
✅ Complete Kits: Reader, software, and blank SIM cards in one package—no compatibility hunting.
✅ Bulk Support: From single samples to 10,000+ SIM programming projects with consistent quality.
✅ Expert Support: Our engineers assist with algorithm selection, OPc calculation, pySim scripting, and EPC integration.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What’s the difference between XOR (COMP128) and Milenage? Which should I use?
A: XOR (COMP128) is a simpler, older algorithm used in 2G and some regional/test networks. Milenage is the stronger, standardized algorithm for 3G/4G/5G. Choose based on your core network’s requirement. HKCARD supports both.
Q2: Can I switch algorithms on the same SIM card?
A: Yes, on our re-programmable SIMs, you can rewrite the algorithm identifier (e.g., from COMP128-2 to Milenage) along with the keys, provided the card’s OS supports both.
Q3: Are HKCARD SIMs compatible with Sysmocom’s sysmoISIM-SJA2 for Milenage testing?
A: Absolutely. Our cards are functionally identical for Milenage operations and work with all sysmoISIM-SJA2 tools and scripts.
Q4: Do you provide the algorithm implementation files (e.g., Milenage f1-f5) for custom development?
A: Yes, we provide reference files and documentation for Milenage and COMP128 implementations to integrate with your pySim or custom provisioning system.
Q5: Can I program a 5G SA SIM with SUCI using your tools?
A: Yes. Our Programmable 5G NR SA SIM Cards and programming software fully support SUCI (Subscription Concealed Identifier) encryption per 3GPP R16.
Q6: What’s the minimum order for algorithm-specific SIMs (e.g., XOR-only)?
A: There is no separate MOQ for algorithm variants. Order blank SIM cards and program the desired algorithm yourself, or request our personalization service with your algorithm and keys.
Contact HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED
Ready to program SIMs with XOR, Milenage, or any other algorithm for your network?
HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED
📧 Email: byronhan@cardmfg.com
🌐 Website: https://www.cardmfg.com/
📱 WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 158 1737 2512
Contact us for:
- Algorithm compatibility confirmation for your core network
- SIM programmer kit quotations with algorithm support details
- Sample blank USIM cards pre-loaded with Milenage or XOR test vectors
- Bulk SIM programming services with your specified algorithm and keys
- Technical deep-dive on Milenage vs. XOR for your use case
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HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED – Your authoritative source for algorithm-flexible, re-programmable SIM cards and programming tools, supporting everything from legacy XOR/COMP128 test environments to modern Milenage-based 5G SA deployments.

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