SIM Card Suspension Causes Tag Failures/ Tag activation issues

SIM Card Suspension Causes Tag Failures/ Tag activation issues/ Tags inactive

Troubleshooting Tag Activation Issues 

Understanding the Core Issue: Tags Not Activating

Scenario: tags fail to activate during play. This type of failure can stem from multiple sources, including network connectivity, device configuration, or backend system limitations. The issue may not be with the tags themselves or the course infrastructure but with the underlying communication network enabling the tags to function.

Please investigate the possibility of systemic failure across the entire course, meaning there may be a centralized issue rather than isolated device malfunction. Often, when multiple tags fail simultaneously, the problem is not with the individual units but with the network or SIM card infrastructure supporting them.

SIM Card Suspension: possible root cause

Upon investigation, it may be confirmed that  multiple device SIM cards were suspended. This suspension disrupted the communication link between the tags and the Tagmarshal cloud platform, rendering the tags unable to register or activate during play.

Why does it happen: SIM card suspension can occur due to various reasons, including billing delays, service plan expiration, or automated system checks triggered by inactivity or anomaly detection.

The suspension of SIM cards means that even though tags are physically present and powered on, they can not send or receive data. As a result, the system perceives them as inactive or non-responsive, leading to the widespread activation failure.

Immediate Resolution: Reactivation of SIM Cards

Once simcards are reactivated by the support team,  the tags will reconnect.

It is important to note that reactivation is not always instantaneous. Depending on the network provider and the specific suspension reason, there may be a brief delay before the SIM cards are fully operational. 

Preventive Measures: How to Avoid Future Disruptions

To prevent similar issues from occurring in the future, golf course operators should implement a proactive monitoring strategy. Here are key steps to ensure continuous tag functionality:

1. Regularly Monitor SIM Card Status

Set up automated alerts or schedule weekly checks to verify the status of all SIM cards in use. Most network providers offer dashboards or APIs that allow real-time monitoring of SIM health, data usage, and service status. Tagmarshal also provides a centralized admin portal where users can view the status of all connected devices and SIMs.

2. Maintain Up-to-Date Billing and Service Plans

Ensure that all service plans are active and payments are processed on time. Even a minor delay in billing can trigger automatic suspension. Consider setting up auto-renewal or payment reminders to avoid lapses.

3. Review Device Health and Connectivity Logs

Use the Tagmarshal platform to review connectivity logs and device activity reports. These logs can help identify early signs of network instability, such as repeated disconnections or failed handshakes between tags and the server.

4. Establish a Routine Maintenance Schedule

Treat the tag system like any other critical course technology. Include SIM card checks, firmware updates, and network performance reviews as part of your monthly or quarterly maintenance routine.

What to Do If Tags Still Don’t Activate After SIM Reactivation

Even after SIM cards are reactivated, some users may still experience activation issues. If tags remain unresponsive, follow these troubleshooting steps:

  • Power cycle the tags: Turn each tag off and back on to force a reconnection attempt.
  • Check physical placement: Ensure tags are not obstructed by metal, water, or other materials that could interfere with signal transmission.
  • Verify GPS signal strength: Tags require a clear view of the sky to establish a GPS fix. If the tag is indoors or in a shaded area, it may fail to activate.
  • Confirm system sync: Log into the Tagmarshal admin portal and check if the tags appear in the active device list. If not, refresh the page or clear the browser cache.

If the issue persists after these steps, contact Tagmarshal support with the device IDs and timestamps of the failure. This information helps the support team diagnose whether the problem lies in the device, network, or backend system.

By staying proactive, reviewing system status regularly, and understanding the role of SIM cards in tag functionality, course operators can ensure that their tagging systems remain reliable, accurate, and ready for every round of play.

If you’re experiencing similar issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Tagmarshal support. 

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