A Ringo that will not find a network is frustrating, and the cause is usually something small. One thing to check before any of them: if you have a 2G Ringo, the 2G network has been switched off in some countries, and where that has happened no amount of reseating or changing SIM will get a signal — What is the difference between 2G and 4G Ringo? explains which version you have. Otherwise work through these in order, starting with the SIM card, which takes a moment to rule out.
The SIM card is in the wrong way round. The golden contacts should face upwards, with the little plastic cutout facing away from the phone. Power your Ringo off and on again after reseating it.
The SIM card has not been activated. A new SIM usually needs activating before it will register on the network, normally with a phone call or a text message. Check your provider’s instructions for the exact steps.
The signal where you are is weak. Ringo’s antenna is not as strong as the one in a modern smartphone, and results vary with the carrier and the location, so indoors or in a poorly covered area the phone may show no reception at all. Move to a spot with a stronger signal, or near a window if you are indoors. Switching to a different provider can help too, as coverage differs from network to network. Some of our customers in parts of the USA, for example, get better reception on AT&T than on T-Mobile.
The antenna is on the wrong connector. On 4G versions of the phone the network module has more than one connector, and the antenna cable belongs on the one marked MAIN. Also make sure the antenna sits properly in its cutout and is not bent too sharply.
A solder joint around the network module has not taken. A joint bridged across to its neighbour, or one that has not flowed properly, will stop the module working. Compare your contacts with the photograph below and reflow any that do not match it.
Still not sure?
If none of these fixes it, email us at [email protected] and we will look into it with you.