Published in The Daily Telegraph and the Courier-Mail.

By Bruce Billson 

Next Monday (October 28) is D-Day for the 3G network as it will be shut down, but I'm worried it could also put many small, family and farming businesses out of business because they don't think it will affect them.

Many of us do not realise there is an awful lot of technology and equipment we use every day that's enabled by 3G, and that it will stop working if it has not been upgraded when the system is turned off.

This change is about far more than replacing an old 3G phone.

Business owners need to “check your tech” on vital business systems and services that have wireless communications links back to a base, service hub, control centre or panel that relies on 3G.

The 3G switch-off on October 28 may disable older-style EFTPOS terminals and tap-to-pay pads at carpark exits and on vending machines, while vital equipment and software including those relating to record-keeping, accounts, bookings and payroll could stop working.

At risk may be security systems and cameras, tablets, telephones in elevators and fire alarms.

Asset tracking tools, surveying instruments, water and environmental monitoring, farm gates and many other wireless operating systems may also cease to function.

There are also very serious safety concerns about people who rely on 3G for medical monitors and sensors and to ensure calls can still be made to emergency services.

Even some 4G-enabled devices have aspects that are powered by 3G, or default to 3G for emergency calls.

Quite understandably, many of us focus on what the piece of kit actually does and the timesaving or technology enhancing way it allows us to get on with business.

I fear many small, family and farming businesses are unaware of the possible business-harming disconnection and technology dysfunction they may face.

It would be terrible if the first time you learn it runs on 3G is when it shuts down, and that might be critical to your business operations.

Don't risk being caught out. Please, check the functionality of your technology so you're not a 3G casualty.