How To Make SIM Card Reader

Once the reader design is built, the open source software can be used to read from and write to the card. Together they can be used to backup/restore stored SIM card data, recover deleted SMS's and phone contacts, examine the last phone numbers dialed, etc.

Tools

There are a few tools that are required for assembly. None of these tools are included. If you don't have them, now would be a good time to borrow or purchase them. They are very very handy whenever assembling/fixing/modifying electronic devices! I provide links to buy them, but of course, you should get them whereever is most convenient/inexpensive. Many of these parts are available in a place like Radio Shack or other (higher quality) DIY electronics stores.

	Soldering iron. One with temperature control and a stand is best. A conical or small 'screwdriver' tip is good, almost all irons come with one of these. A low quality (ahem, $10 model from radioshack) iron may cause more problems than its worth! Do not use a "ColdHeat" soldering iron, they are not suitable for delicate electronics work and can damage the kit (see here) Check out my recommended basic soldering iron and where to buy.
	Solder. Rosin core, 60/40. Good solder is a good thing. Bad solder leads to bridging and cold solder joints which can be tough to find. Dont buy a tiny amount, you'll run out when you least expect it. A half pound spool is a minimum. Check out my recommended basic solder and where to buy.
	Multimeter/Oscilloscope A meter is helpful to check voltages and continuity. Check out my recommended basic multimeter and where to buy.
	Flush/diagonal cutters. Essential for cutting leads close to the PCB. Check out my recommended basic diagonal cutters and where to buy.
	Desoldering tool. If you are prone to incorrectly soldering parts. Check out my recommended basic desoldering tool and where to buy.
	'Handy Hands' with Magnifying Glass. Not absolutelynecessary but will make things go much much faster. Check out my recommended basic 3rd hand tool and where to buy.
	Good light. More important than you think.