Connecting Xiaomi Mi Box S to TV: full instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi Mi Box S is one of the most popular Android TV-consoles on the market thanks to a combination of price, performance and support 4K HDR. But even with such a simple device, users often have questions: what cable is needed, how to set up the remote, why there is no image or sound. In this article, we will analyze all the stages of connection โ€“ from unpacking the box to the first launch of applications, as well as solve typical problems that may arise.

If you have just purchased the Mi Box S (model) MDZ-22-AB) If you're planning to buy one, this guide will help you avoid common mistakes, and we're going to go beyond the basics of how to optimize your TV settings, add additional accessories, and even set up a gaming console!

1.What is included in the package Xiaomi Mi Box S

Check the box contents before connecting. The standard Mi Box S kit includes:

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Xiaomi Mi Box S (black or white)
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Power supply with cable (5V/2A, type USB-C)
  • ๐Ÿ“บ Cable HDMI 2.0 (length) ~1.5 m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m m)
  • ๐ŸŽฎ Remote control with batteries (2)ร—AAA)
  • ๐Ÿ“„ Short instructions in several languages (including Russian)

If there's something missing in your box, you can talk to the vendor, it could be a marriage or a partial package. HDMI It comes in, but if you want a longer one (for example, for a wall mount of the TV), you will have to buy it separately. Also make sure that the power supply matches the model - fakes are often equipped with substandard adapters that can burn the console.

๐Ÿ“Š What type of TV do you have at home?
Smart TV (Samsung, LG, Sony)
Normal. LED/LCD-televisor
Projector
Monitor (for PC)
Other

Important: In some regions (e.g. Europe), you may have a different standard plug adapter, so make sure the plug fits your sockets, or you'll have to use an adapter.

2. Selection and preparation of cables for connection

The main cable for connecting the Mi Box S is HDMI. But not all. HDMI-The cables are the same! For the full operation of the console in resolution 4K@60Hz supportive HDR10 I need a cable version. 2.0 If you have an old cable (versions) 1.4), You will not be able to display the image in the maximum quality.

How to check the version HDMI-Unfortunately, it's not possible on the outside:

  • ๐Ÿ” The package or cable itself must be marked with High Speed. HDMI or Premium Certified
  • ๐Ÿ’ฐ Version cables 2.0 and above are usually 500 RUB (cheap "no-name" for the 100-200 The roubles probably won't be pulled 4K)
  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Included with the Mi Box S is a cable that supports 4K@60Hz, But it may not be long enough.

If you connect the console to an old TV without HDMI, an adapter (for example) will be required, HDMI โ†’ AV (RCA) or HDMI โ†’ SCART). However, in this case, you will lose the quality of the image and sound, and some functions (for example, the quality of the image and sound) will be lost, HDR) will not be available.

๐Ÿ’ก

If your TV is supported HDMI-CEC (control function of multiple devices from one remote, enable it in settings TV. You can control the Mi Box S from the TV remote!

3. Connecting Xiaomi Mi Box S to TV: step-by-step instruction

Now, let's get to the process of connecting. Follow these steps to avoid errors.

  1. Choose. HDMI-If you have multiple ports, remember the number of the one you connect to (for example, the set-top box, HDMI 1 HDMI ARC).
  2. Connect the cable. HDMI Make sure the connectors are plugged in to the stop, and often the image problems are caused by poor contact.
  3. Connect the power supply to the Mi Box S (connector) USB-C) And plug it in the socket. The console should light up with a blue light.
  4. Turn on the TV and select the source of the signal (Source or Input button on the remote control). TV). Choose one. HDMI-port to which the prefix is connected.

If done correctly, the Xiaomi logo will appear on the screen, followed by the initial setting menu. If the image does not appear, check:

Check if the TV is on correctly. HDMI-port

Make sure the cable is HDMI Good (try another one)

Reboot the console (pull out and insert the power supply)

Check if the blue light on the Mi Box S is on

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Critical error: if the indicator on the console flashes red or does not burn at all, this indicates a power problem.

4 First Enable and Configure Mi Box S

Once you're connected, the console will start the original setup wizard, and here's what you're going to do:

  1. Language choice. English is the default, but there's Russian on the list. Use the buttons. โ† โ†’ on the navigational remote and OK confirm.
  2. Wi-Fi connection. The console will automatically find the networks available. Select your password and enter it using the virtual keyboard. If you have a hidden network, click Add Network and type in the name (SSID) manually.
  3. Update software. Mi Box S will offer to check the updates. We recommend you agree - this will fix possible bugs and add new features.
  4. Setting up a Google account. You can skip this step, but without a Google account, you won't be able to install apps from the Play Market.
  5. Permission choices. The console will ask permission to access location, microphone, and other features, and for most users, you can safely opt out, and it won't affect the basic work.

After you complete the setup, you will be taken to the main Android screen. TV. Here you will see pre-installed apps (e.g. YouTube, Netflix, Prime Video) and a voice-controlled search bar.

How do you turn on voice search?
To activate voice search, press and hold the microphone button on the remote (it is located to the right of the button). OK). After the beep, make a request, such as "Put cartoons on YouTube"; the console supports Russian, but it is better to speak clearly and without accent.

If you have trouble connecting to Wi-Fi, try:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Restart router (turn off and turn on power)
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Bring the console closer to the router (or vice versa)
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Make sure that the routerโ€™s settings do not include a filter on MAC-address
  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Try connecting via Ethernet adapter (buyed separately, connected to the port) USB prefixed)

5. Customize the image and sound for maximum quality

By default, the Mi Box S displays the image in resolution. 1080p, Even if your TV is still supporting you 4K. To get the maximum quality, you need to manually adjust the parameters:

  1. Go to Settings โ†’ Display and Sound โ†’ Screen Resolution.
  2. Select the maximum resolution supported (for example, 3840ร—2160 (4K) 60 Hz).
  3. Turn it on. HDR (If your TV supports it, you can find the settings menu. โ†’ Display and sound โ†’ HDR.
  4. For sound, select the Auto format (HDMI) Passthrough, if you have a sound system (for example, Dolby Digital).

If the resolution changes, the screen turns black or the image is gone, don't panic! The console will automatically return the settings in 10 seconds. If it doesn't, restart it manually (pull out and insert the power supply).

ParameterRecommended valueWhat do you need?
Permission3840ร—2160 (4K) 60 HzMaximum clarity for compatible TVs
Color modeAuto (HDR)Automatic switching between SDR and HDR
Sound formatAuto (HDMI) passthroughTransmission of multichannel sound to the receiver
Color spaceRGB or YCbCr 4:4:4It affects the accuracy of color reproduction.

Gamer advice: If you plan to play through the Mi Box S (like Stadia or xCloud), turn on Game Mode in your TV settings. This will reduce input lag and make the controls more responsive.

6 Connecting additional devices: joysticks, keyboards, hard drives

Xiaomi Mi Box S has two ports USB 2.0 that allows you to connect peripheral devices:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Gamepads: Connect via Bluetooth or via USB. The console supports Xbox, PlayStation and most PC-joystick.
  • โŒจ๏ธ Keyboard and mouse: convenient for text input and surfing the Internet. You can use both wired and wireless (Bluetooth) devices.
  • ๐Ÿ’พ External drives: flash drives and hard drives (up to 2 TB) to expand memory. FAT32 or NTFS.
  • ๐Ÿ”Š Sound devices: headphones or speakers via Bluetooth.

To connect the device via Bluetooth:

  1. Go to Settings โ†’ Devices โ†’ Bluetooth.
  2. Enable the search mode on the device (for example, hold the sync button on the gamepad).
  3. Select the device from the list and confirm the pairing.

Important: If you connect a hard drive and it is not defined, check:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ Is there enough food (some of them)? HDD require additional supply of food)
  • ๐Ÿ“ File system format (the console does not support exFAT)
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Try to reboot the console after connecting

๐Ÿ’ก

For stable operation of the external hard disk, use USB-External power hub โ€“ this will solve the problems with lack of energy.

7. Solving typical connection problems

Even with the right connection, there can be problems, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

๐Ÿ”ด No image on the screen

Possible causes and solutions:

  • ๐Ÿ”Œ The problem is HDMI-Cable: Try another cable or port on your TV.
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Incorrect resolution: If the screen is black after changing the resolution, wait 10 seconds โ€“ the console will return the default settings.
  • ๐Ÿ“บ Incompatible HDMI-Port: Some TVs have a port HDMI ARC, That might not work with consoles. Try another port.
  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Insufficient power: Use only the original power supply.

๐Ÿ”Š No sound.

Check the following settings:

  • ๐Ÿ“ป Settings menu โ†’ Display and sound โ†’ Select the sound output HDMI.
  • ๐Ÿ”ˆ Make sure the sound is not turned off on the remote or in the TV settings.
  • ๐ŸŽง If you use external speakers, make sure that the correct device is selected in the sound settings.

๐ŸŒ Not connected to Wi-Fi.

Activities to try:

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reboot the router and console.
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Try connecting to another network (e.g. from your phone via an access point).
  • ๐Ÿ”‘ Make sure the password is entered correctly (the registry is important!).
  • ๐Ÿ“ก If the router is running in mode 802.11n/ac, Try to turn on the compatibility mode with 802.11b/g.

โš ๏ธ Warning: If the console is constantly losing Wi-Fi connection, the problem may be in the router's power saving settings.

๐ŸŽฎ The remote is down.

What to do:

  • ๐Ÿ”‹ Check the batteries (even new ones can be discharged).
  • ๐Ÿ“ถ Make sure there are no obstacles between the console and the console (glass, walls).
  • ๐Ÿ”„ Reconnect the remote: press the back buttons + Home for 5 seconds.
  • ๐Ÿ“ฑ Use the Mi Remote app on your smartphone as a backup option.

โš ๏ธ Attention: if the remote is unstable, check if there are any infrared sources nearby (for example, halogen lamps.

8. Optimization and fine-tuning of the Mi Box S

After the basic setup, you can improve the performance of the console with additional tweaks:

  • ๐Ÿš€ System Acceleration: Turn off animation in Settings โ†’ The device โ†’ Developer parameters โ†’ Window animation (off.).
  • ๐Ÿงน Cache Clearing: Clean the App Cache Regularly in Settings โ†’ Annexes.
  • ๐Ÿ”’ Security: Disable application installation from unknown sources if you are not using third-party applications APK.
  • ๐ŸŒ Region: If some apps are not available, change the region in Google settings (e.g., U.S. to access the app). HBO Max).

For advanced users: if the console brakes, you can reset it to factory settings (Settings) โ†’ The device โ†’ Reset. This will delete all the data, but return the performance to the original level!

Movie fans' advice: install the Kodi app to watch movies from external sources. Set up Hardware Acceleration for smooth playback. 4K.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

โ“ Can you connect Xiaomi Mi Box S to an old TV without a smartphone? HDMI?
Yeah, but it'll take an adapter. HDMI โ†’ AV (RCA) or HDMI โ†’ SCART. However, you will lose the image quality (maximum) 480p) And the sound will be transmitted over a separate cable, and there will be no functions like this. HDR Or Dolby Vision.
โ“ Why is the console warming up?
Light heating of the Mi Box S is normal, especially when playing 4K-However, if the body is hot (more than 50)ยฐC, check it out: ๐ŸŒฌ๏ธ Ventilation holes are not closed (do not put the console in a closed cabinet). ๐Ÿ”Œ Used original power supply (low-quality adapters overheat). ๐Ÿงน Dust has accumulated inside (you can gently blow through with a can of compressed air) If overheating is accompanied by spontaneous reboots, this may indicate a malfunction.
โ“ How to Manually Update Your Firmware if Automatic Update Doesn't Work?
Download the latest firmware from the official Xiaomi website (the support section of the Mi Box S). FAT32, Connect it to the console, then: Go to Settings โ†’ The device โ†’ Software Update: Select Local Update and select the downloaded file. Wait for the process to be completed (the console will restart several times!
โ“ Can you use the Mi Box S as a media server for movies from a hard drive?
Yes, for this: Connect an external hard drive to the port USB. Install a playback application (e.g., Kodi, VLC or MX Player. In the application settings, select the folder with movies on the disk. For convenience, you can create a library of films with covers and descriptions (in Kodi this is done through the media scanner).
โ“ How to connect a gamepad from Xbox or PlayStation?
Bluetooth Connection: Enable the gamepad pairing mode (for Xbox: hold the sync button; for DualShock: Share) + PS). On the console, go to Settings โ†’ Devices โ†’ Bluetooth. Select a gamepad from the list and confirm the connection. Use a wired connection. USB-OTG cable (for DualShock 4) or regular cable USB (Xbox).