(O2) PAYG SIM cards

[Clippy]

I ordered and received an O2 PAYG SIM card.

I was under the impression that once I inserted it into a mobile, the number would be 'live' but when I call it, I get a message advising me that my call cannot be connected at present.

The leaflet that came with the SIM makes no mention of needing to activate the SIM but does mention topping it up.

Does the first top up also activate the SIM?

I wasn't planning on topping up the SIM as I only need it to receive calls.

[bobsyouruncle]

I would have thought you would have to make a minimum top up, otherwise what would be the benefit of them giving away the SIM's for free.

[Cliphead]

Tesco are stocking those wee VX1 phones for less than a tenner so I thought I'd get one as an emergency backup. Had an O2 sim that was given out on a flight back from Poland so stuck it in and credited it with £10 via the O2 website. All active and working within seconds.

They text you a code for 'surprises' so got a 3rd off landline calls for a week.

[Clippy]

I would have thought you would have to make a minimum top up, otherwise what would be the benefit of them giving away the SIM's for free.

You are right - called O2 from my monthly contract mobile.

However, after a bit of rooting around on t'internet, you can buy some O2 PAYG SIM cards for 99p which, apparently, are already activated.

[Churchill]

Tesco are stocking those wee VX1 phones for less than a tenner so I thought I'd get one as an emergency backup. Had an O2 sim that was given out on a flight back from Poland so stuck it in and credited it with £10 via the O2 website. All active and working within seconds.

They text you a code for 'surprises' so got a 3rd off landline calls for a week.

Ooooooh, I think I'll be having one of those to play with...