HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED supplies writable, programmable blank SIM and USIM cards (commonly known as Test White Cards) specifically designed for 5G and 4G LTE base station testing, core network validation, and lab development environments. These neutral, no-carrier cards can be securely provisioned with authentication parameters to enable successful network registration and mutual authentication in controlled test setups.
Our cards support tri-format punch-out (2FF/3FF/4FF), allowing one card body to serve as Mini-SIM, Micro-SIM, or Nano-SIM. This flexibility makes them highly practical for testing smartphones, IoT modules, CPE routers, and communication instruments.
Important: These test cards are intended solely for authorized laboratory use, private LTE/5G deployments, and legitimate R&D. All provisioning must comply with local regulations and security policies.
Core Authentication Parameters Required for Successful Registration
Factory-blank cards contain only basic hardware identifiers. To complete mutual authentication with a core network (such as EPC or Open5GS), the following parameters must be written:
- IMSI — The unique subscriber identifier that must exactly match the HSS/UDM database.
- Ki — The 128-bit long-term secret key used to generate authentication vectors (highly confidential).
- OPc — The operator-specific configuration field derived from Ki and OP, essential for secure AKA authentication.
- ICCID — The physical card serial number, sometimes used for inventory or policy binding.
- PLMN (MCC + MNC) — Defines which network(s) the card is permitted to register on.
- ACC — Access Control Class (optional, depending on network policy).
Correct and consistent data between the SIM and core network is critical for avoiding authentication failures.
Common Provisioning Tools and Methods
Engineers typically use one of two approaches depending on their environment:
Graphical tools (recommended for quick deployment)
Tools such as GRSIMWrite offer an intuitive interface. Users connect a smart card reader, insert the blank card, enter the required parameters, and use the “Auto” function to generate derived values before writing.
Command-line / scripting tools (preferred for automation)
Open-source libraries like pySim allow developers to write custom scripts for Linux environments. These tools follow standard APDU commands defined in 3GPP specifications.
How 4G/5G Mutual Authentication Works
Modern 4G and 5G networks use mutual authentication:
- The core network sends a random challenge (RAND) and authentication token (AUTN).
- The SIM/USIM verifies the network using Ki and OPc to prevent rogue base station attacks.
- Once both sides authenticate successfully, session keys are generated to protect signaling and user data.
This process explains why precise parameter matching is essential during base station and core network testing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Authentication Reject: Usually caused by mismatched Ki, OPc, or IMSI between the card and core network.
- Not Registered: Often due to incorrect PLMN settings or invalid IMSI format.
- Reader/Driver Problems: Ensure the operating system detects the smart card reader and that PC/SC drivers are up to date.
Security Recommendations
- Treat Ki as highly sensitive material and never transmit it in plaintext.
- Use secure channels and controlled environments when provisioning cards.
- Limit the use of test white cards to internal development, laboratory testing, or authorized private networks.
- Never use these cards to access public commercial operator networks without proper authorization.
Contact HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED
HKCARD ELECTRONICS CO., LIMITED
📧 Email: byronhan@cardmfg.com
🌐 Website: https://www.cardmfg.com/
📱 WhatsApp / WeChat: +86 158 1737 2512
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