Xiaomi TVs (Mi TV 4/5, Mi TV A, Mi TV Q, and others) support both digital (DVB-T2) and analogue air channels, but many users face difficulties in first setting up. Unlike smart features like Netflix or YouTube, working with traditional TV requires the correct connection of the antenna, selecting the signal source, and manual / automatic setting of channels. In this article, we will examine all the ways from basic cable connection to solving typical problems like no sound or no signal.
Xiaomi TVs have a feature that their firmware (MIUI TV or Google TV, depending on the model) hides some settings behind non-obvious menu items, such as the option “Aerial Mode” may be in the “Settings → Channels” section, and in new models (2023-2026) it has been moved to “Devices → Television”, and we will take these nuances into account and show the current paths for different versions of the software.
Important: If your Xiaomi TV doesn’t catch channels even after setting it up correctly, the problem may be incompatibility with a regional broadcast standard (e.g., some CIS countries use DVB-T instead of DVB-T2) or hardware limitations (China models don’t support European frequencies).
1 What channels can you watch Xiaomi TV without the console
Xiaomi TVs have built-in tuners to receive signals without any additional devices, and this is what they support:
- 📶 Digital TV on air (DVB-T2) — 20 free channels in Russia (first and second multiplexes), similar packages in Ukraine, Kazakhstan and other countries.
- 📺 Analog terrestrial TV is an outdated format, but some regional channels still broadcast in this format.
- 🔌 Cable TV (DVB-C) — requires connection via an operator (e.g. Rostelecom, Akado).
- 🛰️ Satellite TV (DVB-S/S2) — only in plug-in models LNB IN (Like Mi. TV 5 Pro).
What can not be seen without the console:
- ❌ IPTV — requires the installation of applications such as SS IPTV Lazyman.
- ❌ Paid packages (for example, Tricolor, NTV-Plus) - you need a prefix or CAM-module.
- ❌ Overseas channels (e.g, BBC, CNN) — geolocated.
In Xiaomi models for the Chinese market (with the CN suffix in the title), the DVB-T2 tuner is often software-disabled. Check the labeling on the box or in the settings (Settings → About TV).
2. Connect an antenna or cable to Xiaomi TV
Before setting the channels, make sure the signal is physically connected to the TV.
Scenario 1: Etheric antenna (room or street)
To receive DVB-T2 or analog signal:
- Connect the antenna cable to the RF IN (or ANTENNA) connector on the back of the TV.
- If you use an amplifier, connect it to the power supply.
- Make sure the cable is not bent or damaged (especially important for high-frequency DVB-T2) signals.
Scenario 2: Cable TV from the provider
If you have a company like Rostelecom or Beeline:
- 🔌 Connect the provider cable to the connector RF IN.
- 📋 Please check with the operator what standard is used (DVB-C analog).
- 🔧 You may need to activate the service through your personal account.
Important: in some homes, the signal is distributed through a collective antenna, and if other TVs in the apartment have channels working and Xiaomi doesn't, the problem is the tuner settings, not the connection.
☑️ Checking the antenna connection
3. Step-by-step channel setup on Xiaomi TV
The instructions are valid for MIUI TV firmware (models 2020-2022) and Google TV (models 2023-2026). If you have a different version, the paths may be slightly different.
Method 1: Automatic search (recommended)
- Open the settings (cog in the upper right corner).
- Go to: For MIUI TV: Channels → Channel setup → Auto Search. For Google TV: Devices → Television → Channel setup → Auto setup.
- 📶 Digital (DVB-T2) — TV-TV.
- 🔌 Cables (DVB-C) — If connected through the operator.
- 📺 Analogues for obsolete transmissions.
- Run the search and wait until it is completed (it can take 5-15 minutes).
- Click Search and save the channels found.
⚠️ Note: to view encrypted channels (Tricolor, NTV-Plus) will be required CAM-Module and smart card operator. built-in tuner Xiaomi supports only CI+ modules (e.g. AlphaCrypt or Viaccess).
5. Solving Channel Viewing Problems
If after setting the channels do not show, there is no sound or the image “crumbles”, check the following points:
Problem 1: No signal or channels found
- 🔍 Check the quality of the antenna – indoor antennas are not good for catching DVB-T2 remotely.
- 📡 Make sure the antenna is aimed at the tower (coordinates can be found on the RTRS website).
- 🔌 Try another cable - sometimes the problem is in a damaged plug.
- 🔄 Reboot the TV: Settings → On TV. → Reboot.
Problem 2: Channels found, but no image or sound
- 🔊 Check the sound settings: Settings → Sound. → Withdrawal mode (should be PCM TV-TV).
- 📺 Make sure the correct signal source is selected (on the remote, click Source and select the TV).
- 🔧 Reset the tuner settings: Settings → Channels → Reset.
Problem 3: The channels are constantly disappearing
If the signal is interrupted, the cause may be:
- 🌩️ Weather conditions (rain, thunderstorm worsen reception).
- 📶 Network congestion (for example, if multiple devices are connected to one antenna).
- 🔋 Failed amplifier (try to disable it).
🔹 Signal test: in the channel settings menu, select Signal Information. Level must be at least 60%, quality not lower than 80%. If the values are lower, the antenna or cable problem.
What if the TV doesn’t see the RF IN connector?
6. Alternative ways to watch TV on Xiaomi
If the built-in tuner doesn’t fit (like you want to watch IPTV or pay channels), consider these options:
Option 1: The console (Android TV, T2, satellite)
- 📦 Android TV-The console (for example, Xiaomi Mi Box S) IPTV and streaming services.
- 📡 DVB-T2 The TV does not support digital TV.
- 🛰️ Satellite receiver - for viewing Tricolor or NTV-Plus.
Option 2: Smart TV applications
Install via Google Play (for models on Google TV) or third-party sources:
- 📺 SS IPTV — playlist IPTV.
- 🌍 Lazyman – for access to foreign channels.
- 🎬 Wink or MEGOGO – legal services with TV channels.
⚠️ Note: Install applications from unknown sources (APK) This can cause a TV to be blocked (especially on models with a MIUI TV). Use only verified files.
Option 3: Telephone or PC mirroring
If the channel is available on a smartphone or computer, you can display the image on the TV:
- 📱 Miracast/Wi-Fi Direct – wireless connection with Xiaomi-smartphone.
- 🖥️ HDMI-cable - to connect a laptop.
- 🎮 Chromecast – if the TV supports Google Cast.
💡
If your Xiaomi TV does not support the desired broadcast standard (for example, DVB-C), it is cheaper to buy an external console than to change TV. Modern receivers (like Xiaomi Mi Box) cost from 2 000 rubles and solve 90% of problems with viewing.
7. Comparison of Xiaomi TV Broadcast Support Models
Not all Xiaomi TVs work equally well with on-air or cable TV, and the table below shows the key differences:
| Model | DVB-T2 | DVB-C | DVB-S/S2 | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mi TV 4A/4S (2018–2020) | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes. | ❌ No. | The tuner can be disabled in Chinese versions. |
| Mi TV 5/5 Pro (2021–2022) | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes, only 5 Pro) | The best satellite TV support among Xiaomi models. |
| Mi TV Q1/Q2 (2022–2023) | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes. | ❌ No. | Google TV support, but weak tuner in basic versions. |
| Mi TV A Pro (2023–2026) | ✅ Yes. | ✅ Yes. | ❌ No. | Optimized for streaming, the tuner may require manual tuning. |
🔹 Tip: if you plan to actively use on-air or cable TV, choose models with the Pro index - they are equipped with more sensitive tuners.