The 16-port 2G GSM modem pool
The 16-Port 2G GSM Modem Pool is the mid-size model in our range: 16 independent modem channels, each with its own SIM holder, SMA antenna socket and power switch, in a steel chassis that connects to a Windows or Linux host over USB. It is built on Wavecom Q2403-class industrial 2G GSM/GPRS modules on 900/1800 MHz, the bands UK and European networks use for 2G, and is supplied new. It suits organisations sending moderate volumes of transactional SMS, or running two-way services across a small team.
It is a made-to-order item: we do not hold it in the UK. When you order, we purchase the unit from our supplier and it is delivered to you in 3 to 5 weeks. The price includes the international freight, import duty and VAT handling and UK mainland delivery, so there is nothing further to pay on arrival. You can cancel for a full refund at any point before the supplier dispatches.
Who the 16-port suits
Sixteen channels suits an organisation that has outgrown a single modem or an 8-port unit: a multi-branch business sending appointment and delivery updates, a support team running two-way SMS with several dedicated numbers, or a telemetry installation collecting from a few hundred devices. It gives roughly 6,000 to 10,000 messages an hour and enough separate numbers to allocate one per department or client. The single-row chassis is still desk-sized and needs only one USB host connection.
How it works
Connect the USB-B host port to your computer and each of the 16 modules appears as a virtual serial port. Your SMS software opens those ports and drives the modems with standard AT commands (GSM 07.05 and 07.07) to register on the network, send and receive SMS in text or PDU mode, and check signal. Gammu-SMSD, Kannel, playSMS and commercial SMS servers all work; the USB setup guide written for the 64-port applies here with fewer ports. A USB-A port on the chassis allows a second unit to be chained.
Each channel is independent, with its own SIM, antenna and power switch, and modules lift out individually for SIM changes or replacement. Plan on roughly 360 to 600 messages per channel per hour in good signal, the same as any GSM channel.
Network compatibility and the UK
This is a 2G-only unit on GSM 900/1800 MHz, which is exactly what UK networks use for SMS now that 3G is switched off. It registers on 2G with EE, Vodafone or O2 SIMs (and MVNOs on those networks); Three has no 2G and will not register. EE, Vodafone and O2 have committed to keep 2G running until at least 2029. For countries that have switched off 2G but kept 3G, choose the 64-port 2G/3G unit instead. See the UK network guide and 2G vs 3G explainer.
Compatibility notice: 2G availability is set by operators and varies by country, region and date. Confirm that your SIM provider offers 2G service where the unit will be used; this unit cannot use 3G or 4G.
Technical specifications
Taken from the supplier's documentation for the Wavecom-based 16-port unit. Figures we have not verified are marked as confirmed on request. Download the datasheet (PDF).
| Modem channels | 16 independent 2G GSM modem channels (one SIM per channel) |
|---|---|
| SIM slots | 16, one per module; accepts standard and micro SIM sizes |
| Network technology | 2G GSM/GPRS only (Wavecom Q2403-class industrial modules). No 3G or 4G |
| Frequency bands | GSM 900/1800 MHz dual band (UK and Europe). Quad-band 850/900/1800/1900 MHz modules available on request before ordering |
| Host interface | USB 2.0 (RS-232 variant available on request) |
| Control | AT commands (GSM 07.05 / 07.07); one virtual serial port per channel |
| Operating systems | Windows and Linux hosts |
| Serial speed | Up to 115,200 bit/s |
| SMS | Text and PDU mode, send and receive; GSM phase 2 compliant |
| Antenna | 16 SMA connectors, one per channel; stub antennas supplied |
| Modules | Individually removable modem modules with a separate power switch for each channel |
| Power | 100 to 240 V AC mains input |
| Operating temperature | -20 °C to +55 °C (storage -25 °C to +70 °C) |
| Chassis | Steel desktop chassis with side ventilation and carry handles |
| Dimensions and weight | Confirmed on request before dispatch |
What's included
- Modem pool chassis with all modem modules fitted
- GSM stub antennas (SMA)
- Mains adapter or lead (UK plug or adapter supplied)
- USB cable
- Driver download details
SIM cards are not included. Units are supplied with a UK plug or a UK adapter for the mains lead.
Software and drivers
The pool needs host software; none is bundled, and the widely used options are free. Gammu and Gammu-SMSD (Linux and Windows, one daemon per modem with a shared database), Kannel (a full SMS gateway with an HTTP interface) and playSMS (web front end) all drive AT-command modems. Windows and Linux see each channel as a serial port through the standard USB-serial driver; driver download details ship with the unit. Setup steps are in the USB setup guide.
Compared with the 64-port unit
| Model | Channels | Price | Per channel | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8-Port 2G GSM Modem Pool | 8 | £305 | £38.12 | To order, 3 to 5 weeks |
| 16-Port 2G GSM Modem Pool | 16 | £545 | £34.06 | To order, 3 to 5 weeks |
| 32-Port 2G GSM Modem Pool | 32 | £1,040 | £32.50 | To order, 3 to 5 weeks |
| 64-Port 2G/3G GSM Modem Pool | 64 | £449 | £7.01 | In UK stock |
The 64-port is £96 less than this unit, has 2G/3G modules and ships from UK stock. The 16-port makes sense when a compact 2G unit is all you need and the lead time is acceptable. Full comparison: 8 vs 16 vs 32 vs 64 port.
Lawful-use notice
A 16-SIM device is a SIM farm under the Crime and Policing Act 2026. From 29 October 2026 it is an offence to possess one without good reason or lawful authority, and we must verify buyers and keep a record of each supply. Checkout asks for your organisation and intended use; see lawful use and buyer verification.
Delivery, cancellation and warranty
Delivered in 3 to 5 weeks on a tracked service, with freight, import handling and UK mainland delivery included. Cancel for a full refund any time before the supplier dispatches. 12-month return-to-base warranty against manufacturing defects; consumers have a 14-day cancellation right after delivery. See delivery and returns and warranty.