How to Use GSM SIM on Andromax C: A Step-by-Step Guide

The Andromax C, while a capable device, originally came with a limitation: it primarily supported CDMA networks for internet connectivity. For users wanting to leverage GSM networks for potentially better coverage or simply to use a GSM SIM card for data, a workaround is needed. This guide will walk you through the process of enabling GSM internet on your Andromax C using a custom ROM and Andromax Tools. This method involves flashing a custom ROM, specifically the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM, and utilizing Andromax Tools to configure your SIM settings.

Before proceeding, it’s crucial to understand the prerequisites and ensure you are comfortable with the process of flashing custom ROMs. Incorrect flashing can potentially brick your device, so proceed with caution and at your own risk.

Prerequisites for GSM Internet on Andromax C

Before you begin, make sure your Andromax C meets these requirements:

Rooted Andromax C with CWM Recovery: Your Andromax C must be rooted, and ClockworkMod Recovery (CWM) must be installed. Rooting gives you administrative access to your device, and CWM Recovery allows you to install custom ROMs.
Andromax C Jelly Bean (Recommended): While it might be possible on other versions, this guide is specifically recommended for Andromax C running Jelly Bean. Compatibility with older ICS versions is not guaranteed.
Understanding of Flashing ROMs: You should have a basic understanding of how to flash custom ROMs using CWM recovery. This process involves navigating the recovery menu and installing ZIP files.

Important Note: Backup Your Data! Before installing any custom ROM, it is absolutely essential to create a backup of your current system using CWM recovery. This backup will be your safety net if anything goes wrong during the installation process, allowing you to restore your phone to its previous state.

Downloading the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM

The custom ROM we’ll be using is the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM. This ROM is designed to mimic the Nokia X interface and, importantly, enables GSM functionality on your Andromax C.

You can download the ROM from the following link:

Download Nokia X Pure Edition ROM via MediaFire

Once downloaded, place the ROM ZIP file in the root directory of your SD card (i.e., not inside any folders).

Step-by-Step Installation Guide for Nokia X Pure Edition ROM

Follow these steps carefully to install the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM on your Andromax C:

Boot into CWM Recovery: Power off your Andromax C and boot into CWM Recovery mode. The method to do this varies depending on your device, but it usually involves pressing and holding a combination of power and volume buttons.
Wipe Data: In the CWM Recovery menu, navigate to “wipe data/factory reset” and select “Yes” to confirm. This will erase your current user data, so ensure you have backed up anything important.
Wipe Cache Partition: Next, select “wipe cache partition” and confirm with “Yes”. This clears the cache partition, which can help prevent issues with the new ROM.
Wipe Dalvik Cache: Go to “advanced” and then select “wipe dalvik cache”. Confirm with “Yes”. Wiping the Dalvik cache is recommended for a clean installation.
Flash the ROM: Navigate back to the main menu and select “install zip from sdcard.” Then, choose “choose zip from sdcard” and locate the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM ZIP file you downloaded earlier. Select the file and confirm the installation by selecting “Yes”.
Wipe Cache and Dalvik Cache Again: After the ROM is installed, repeat steps 3 and 4 (Wipe Cache Partition and Wipe Dalvik Cache) to ensure a clean system.
Reboot System Now: Finally, select “reboot system now” from the main menu. Your Andromax C will now reboot into the Nokia X Pure Edition ROM. The first boot may take a bit longer than usual.

Features of Nokia X Pure Edition ROM

The Nokia X Pure Edition ROM brings several features to your Andromax C, including:

Nokia X Inspired User Interface: The ROM is designed to closely resemble the user interface of Nokia X phones, giving your Andromax C a fresh look and feel.
Eye-Comforting GUI: The graphical user interface (GUI) is designed to be visually appealing and comfortable for extended use.
GSM-GSM/Dual GSM & CDMA-GSM Support: This is the key feature! The ROM enables you to use GSM SIM cards for both voice and data, offering flexibility beyond the original CDMA limitation. It also supports dual GSM configurations.
Nokia Store & Nokia Services: The ROM includes the Nokia Store and other Nokia services, although some, like Here Maps, may not be fully functional.
SuperSU Pre-installed: The ROM comes with SuperSU by Chainfire, a popular tool for managing root access permissions.
X-Plore File Manager: A pre-installed X-Plore File Manager provides advanced file management capabilities.

Setting Up Dual GSM and GSM-GSM

After installing the ROM, you may need to configure your SIM settings to properly utilize GSM networks. Here’s how:

Setting up CDMA-GSM:

Dial USSD Code: Open your phone dialer and dial *#*#4636#*#*. This will open the “Testing” menu.
Phone Information: Select “Phone information”.
Select Preferred Network Type (SIM 1): Look for “Set preferred network type” (it might be labeled “SIM 1”). Tap on the dropdown menu and choose “CDMA auto prl”.
Restart Your Device: Restart your Andromax C for the changes to take effect.

If CDMA-GSM Setup Doesn’t Work:

Install Andromax Tools: Download and install Andromax Tools from the Google Play Store (if not already present).
Use SIM Switching Feature: Open Andromax Tools and look for a “Switch SIM” or similar option.
Enable RUIM for SIM 1: Check the box next to “RUIM” for SIM 1.
Restart Your Device: Restart your device.

Setting up GSM-GSM:

Dial USSD Code: Dial *#*#4636#*#* to access the “Testing” menu.
Phone Information: Select “Phone information”.
Select Preferred Network Type (SIM 1): Choose “GSM only” or “CDMA/GSM auto prl” from the “Set preferred network type” dropdown menu for SIM 1.
Restart Your Device: Restart your Andromax C.

If GSM-GSM Setup Doesn’t Work:

Install Andromax Tools: If you haven’t already, install Andromax Tools.
Use SIM Switching Feature: Open Andromax Tools and use the “Switch SIM” option.
Enable SIM for SIM 1: Check the box next to “SIM” for SIM 1.
Restart Your Device: Restart your device.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully use a GSM SIM card for internet connectivity on your Andromax C. The Nokia X Pure Edition ROM provides a pathway to overcome the original CDMA limitation and expand the usability of your device. Remember to proceed with caution when flashing custom ROMs and always back up your data. Enjoy the flexibility of GSM internet on your Andromax C!