How to Restore SIM Contacts

1. Remove the SIM card from your cell phone. Most SIM cards are located under the battery in the back of cell phones. Each cell phone is different. Reference your user's manual to find and remove your SIM card.

2. Purchase a USB SIM card reader. A cheap reader can be purchased for around $6 as of 2011. Place the SIM card from your cell phone into the USB reader and insert it into one of the USB ports on your computer.

3. Download a SIM card recovery software. Common programs include SIM Card Data Recovery software, offered by Data Doctor for $69 in 2011, and SIM Recovery Pro, which supplies both the USB and the software for around $100.

4. Select what information you want to recover from the main menu of options. Each system will work slightly differently. You will choose selections like 'Contacts' or 'Phone Book Number,' which will contain all contacts that have been stored in the past.