Xiaomi’s current Android TV or PatchWall-based Smart TVs offer many features, but basic external connectivity often raises questions among users. Switching to HDMI is the first step to connecting game consoles, satellite receivers, laptops or game consoles to a TV screen. Despite the apparent simplicity, the process can vary depending on the operating system version and remote control model.
In this article, we will take a look at all the ways to enter the desired mode, from the standard buttons on the remote to the settings in the system menu. You will learn how to choose the right port if there are several of them, and what to do if the image does not appear.
Often, users are faced with a situation where the TV does not see the connected device, and this does not always mean a breakage. HDMI interface requires the correct setting of resolution and refresh rate, especially when working with 4K content or PC. We will look at typical use cases and help to customize the picture as well as possible.
Search for the switch button on the Xiaomi remote
The fastest way to change the source of the signal is to use a specialized button on the remote control. On most Xiaomi Mi Remote models, this button is located at the top, next to the power button, and is indicated by the icon of the square with the arrow entering or by the inscription INPUT.
If the standard button is missing or not responding, try pressing the menu button (three dots or gear) for 2-3 seconds. In some versions of PatchWall firmware, this action opens the context menu, where you can also select "Input" or "Sources", which is especially true for older TV models where the remote design may have differed.
In the rare cases where the remote is lost or out of order, you can use physical buttons on the TV body, usually on the bottom edge or the back on the right, and mechanical switching requires a short press on the joystick button or a separate key to trigger the navigation menu, where the arrows select the desired connector.
- 🔘 Look for a button that says INPUT or square-arrow icon.
- 🔘 Try long pressing the menu button or settings.
- 🔘 Use the joystick on the TV body if the remote is not available.
- 🔘 Make sure the batteries in the remote are charged, otherwise the signal may not pass.
⚠️ Please do not press the buttons too often and quickly as Android system TV can temporarily block the entry of commands to avoid chaotic switching modes.
Setup through the main menu of Android TV
If the button methods don’t work or the remote interface is changed, you can switch to HDMI through the software menu, go to the main screen of Android TV and find the Settings section (cog icon) in the upper right corner.
Inside the input menu, you can see a list of all active and inactive ports, and you can simply click on the right connector, such as HDMI 1 or HDMI 2 (ARC), and the system will automatically switch the video stream, even if there is no activity on the external device, although in this case, you can see a black screen or a message about the absence of a signal.
To make the tweaks more subtle, you can edit the login name to avoid confusion in the future, like renaming HDMI 2 to PlayStation or Laptop, via the editing menu available when you select a particular login, which makes navigation easier for all family members.
- 🖥️ Go to the “Settings” section on the main screen.
- 🔌 Select the tab "Inputs" or "Channels & Inputs».
- 📝 If necessary, rename the ports for convenience.
- ✅ Click on the desired port for forced switching.
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Software switching through the menu is the most reliable way to guarantee the choice of the port to which the device is physically connected, eliminating remote errors.
Using the Mi Remote app on your smartphone
Owners of Xiaomi smartphones and other Android devices can use the built-in Mi Remote or Mi TV app to control the TV, especially if the original remote is lost.
When the device pairs, a virtual remote will appear on the smartphone screen. To switch to HDMI, you need to press the Input button in the application interface. The action duplicates the physical button, causing the signal source selection menu. The smartphone control also allows you to enter text from the phone keyboard, which is convenient when searching for content.
It is important to note that both devices must be on the same subnet to operate the app. If the TV doesn't detect the phone, check the router settings and make sure that Wi-Fi client isolation is turned off. In some cases, permission to access the local network is required in the app's settings.
Path in the app: Mi Remote -> Add device -> TV -> Xiaomi -> Connect by codeWhat to do if the app can’t see the TV?
Ports and their features on Xiaomi TV
Different Xiaomi TV models come with different numbers and types of HDMI ports, and understanding the differences between them is critical to connecting demanding hardware like next-generation gaming consoles or PCs to watch 4K video.
Below is a comparative description of the ports found in current TV models. Pay attention to support for HDCP standards and bandwidth, as this affects the quality of the picture and the ability to play protected content.
| Type of port | Maximum authorization | Support for HDR | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDMI 1 (MHL) | 4K @ 60Hz | Yes (HDR10) | Support for MHL for mobile devices |
| HDMI 2 (ARC/eARC) | 4K @ 60Hz | Yeah (Dolby Vision) | To bring sound to the soundbar |
| HDMI 3 | 4K @ 30Hz | No. | Base port for consoles |
| HDMI 4 | 1080p @ 60Hz | No. | For DVD-Players and old consoles |
When connecting a computer or game console Xbox Series X or PS5, it is recommended to use ports with support for 4K @ 60Hz and HDR, usually HDMI 1 or 2. Using ports with limited bandwidth can lead to a decrease in frame rates or a lack of color depth.
Solving problems with lack of signal
The situation where the TV shows "No signal" after switching is quite common. The first step should always be to check the physical connection of the cable. HDMI cable should be tightly inserted into the connector until the characteristic click; weak fit of contacts is the most common cause of failure.
If the cable is in good condition, the problem may be in the resolution that the external device outputs. For example, if the laptop is configured to display an image in a resolution that the TV does not support, the screen will remain black, in which case you need to connect the device to another monitor and change the display settings to a lower value, for example, 1920×1080.
Also worth paying attention to is the sequence of the devices being turned on. The right algorithm is to turn on the TV and wait for the system to boot, then turn on the external device (console, PC). Some older devices don't transmit a signal unless it's a hot plug.
- 🔌 Check the density of the cable in the port.
- 🔄 Try replacing it. HDMI cable-on.
- 💻 Reset the resolution on the external device to the base.
- 🔋 Restart both devices in turn.
☑️ Diagnostics of the absence of a signal
Customization of sound when connected via HDMI
When switching to HDMI The TV automatically captures not only the video stream, but also the audio signal. TV Sometimes the priority of the sound is left on the internal application or Bluetooth headset. To fix, go to the sound settings and select "Output of sound» -> «HDMI/ARC».
If you are using an external speaker system or a soundbar connected via an ARC (Audio Return Channel) port, make sure that the TV settings have CEC enabled, which will allow you to control the soundbarr volume with the TV remote and automatically switch the sound when you start the applications.
In some cases, you may need to manually change the format of the audio stream. If the sound is wheezing or absent when connecting a PC, try switching the digital output from Auto to PCM in the TV sound settings, which will solve compatibility problems with some graphics cards.
⚠️ Note: When using adapters (e.g, HDMI on VGA or DVI) sound HDMI It won't be transmitted because these formats don't support audio streaming.
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Use HDMI 2.0 or 2.1 cables to connect 4K devices to ensure lossless audio transmission in Dolby Atmos and DTS:X formats.