Xiaomi’s new activity tracker is always an event for fans of the brand, but the first launch of the device may raise questions from inexperienced users.The Xiaomi Mi Band 3 model is equipped with an energy-efficient device. OLED-display and powerful battery, so the factory gadgets are often supplied with a minimum charge or in deep sleep mode to save battery life during long-term storage.
To activate a wearable device, it is not enough to simply wear it on your wrist, since automatic activation when wearing this model is not provided for by the design. You will need to perform a series of sequential actions aimed at supplying power to the controller and initializing communication with the mobile phone through a special software interface.
In this article, we will discuss all the steps of the first switch on, consider the nuances of working with the touch button and provide solutions for situations where the bracelet does not respond to your actions. The correct sequence of steps ensures a successful start of your new gadget.
Initial check of configuration and condition of the device
Before you start activating electronics, you need to make sure that the physical integrity and basic readiness of the device to work. The capsule of the tracker must be securely fixed in the silicone strap, and the contacts on the back are free from the factory protective film. Often it is the forgotten insulator that prevents the start of charging, which makes the device seem unworkable.
Visually inspect the screen for any cracks or chips that may have occurred during transportation.While the body of the Mi Band 3 is strong enough, mechanical damage can affect the touchpad or the device's tightness.Make sure there are no foreign objects or dust in the charging tray that can disrupt contact.
The device kit usually includes the tracker itself, the charging cable and a brief instruction. Note that the power supply is missing in the box, so you will need a standard one. USB-port of the computer or adapter from the smartphone with a current of not more than 1 Amperes. the use of powerful fast charging units can damage the power controller of the bracelet.
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Use only the original cable kit or certified counterparts, as cheap Chinese copies often have the wrong pin location and can burn the battery.
The process of initial battery charging
The most important step before turning on is the power supply to the battery. Even if the indicators indicate a charge, it is recommended to charge the device for at least 15-20 minutes before the first start, which will allow the lithium polymer battery to exit the storage mode and gain the necessary voltage for the work tab.
To connect, remove the capsule from the strap, gently bend it at the mounting location. Insert the capsule into the charger so that the contacts on the bracelet match the contacts on the charge. They usually have a characteristic convex relief, which makes it easier to dock. When connected correctly, the battery icon or current percentage of charge should appear on the screen.
If the screen remains black, try pressing the capsule slightly against the charger or rubbing the contacts with dry cloth.Oxidation or fatty fingerprints can prevent current from passing. In some cases, it takes several seconds before the display responds to the connection.
- 🔌 Connect. USB-power-wire 5V/1A or a computer port.
- ⚡ Make sure the contacts on the capsule and charging fit tightly together.
- 👀 Watch the screen: A logo or battery icon is a sign of success.
- ⏳ Leave the device to charge to at least 50% before first turning on.
☑️ Preparations for first launch
Activation through the touch button and menu
Once the device is powered, you need to wake up the system. Unlike smartphones, the Mi Band 3 doesn't have a physical power button; all control is through the touch area at the bottom of the screen, which is a capacitive button that responds to the touch of a finger.
To turn on, you need to make a short touch on the touch zone. If the device is completely discharged, the screen may not light up immediately, in which case continue charging. At normal charge level, the MI logo will appear on the display, followed by the main menu with a display of time and steps.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to push hard on the screen or use sharp objects to press, as this can damage the sensitive layer of the display and disrupt the tightness of the body.
If the screen lights up after touching, but quickly goes out, this means that the switch on was successful, but the power saving mode was activated. To constantly work, the display must complete the pairing procedure with the phone. In the wristband menu, you can switch between functions (pulse, weather, alarm clock) with short touches on the same touch zone.
Connecting with a smartphone and installing an application
By itself, turning on the bracelet provides only limited functionality: viewing time, steps and pulse. To work properly, you need synchronization with a mobile device. The main tool for this is the Mi Fit application (or its new counterpart Zepp Life), which acts as a bridge between the tracker and Xiaomi servers.
Download the app from the official Google Play or App Store. After installation, sign up for Xiaomi accounts or log in through an existing profile. It is important to give the app all the requested permissions to access geolocation, Bluetooth and notifications, otherwise stable communication with the bracelet is impossible.
Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone and start searching for devices in the app. When the system detects the Mi Band 3, the bracelet will display a vibration signal and ask you to confirm pairing. Press the touch button to confirm, and then exchange encryption keys and adjust the time.
| Parameter | Meaning/Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Annex | Mi Fit / Zepp Life | Be sure to set up |
| Bluetooth | Version 4.0 and higher | Required for pairing |
| Android OS | 4.4 and above | Minimum requirements |
| iOS | iOS 9.0 and higher | For iPhone owners |
| Account. | Mi Account | Registration is required. |
Problem Solving: The bracelet is not turned on
When Xiaomi Mi Band 3 does not respond to charging and touching, it is rare, but requires a systematic approach to diagnosis. Most often the problem lies in the oxidation of contacts or software freeze controller. First of all, carefully wipe the contacts on the capsule and charger with an alcohol napkin.
If cleaning didn't work, try leaving the device on charge for a few hours, even if the indicators are silent. Deep battery discharge can take a long time to "swing." It's also worth trying to connect the cable to another one. USB-port or other power adapter, eliminating a faulty current source.
In rare cases, hardware resets are required, which can be done by carefully closing the contacts on the bracelet itself (requiring disassembly, which makes it impossible to guarantee), or by using special software to flash it if the computer sees the device as unknown, but for the average user, the most effective method is to charge the original cable for a long time.
What if only the battery icon is on, but the screen is not turned on?
⚠️ Warning: If the bracelet heats up while charging, immediately disconnect it from the mains.Heating indicates a short circuit inside the battery, which can be dangerous.
Configuring the interface and basic functions
Once you're successfully enabled and paired, you'll be tasked with personalizing your device. Through the app, you can customize the information you display, the order of the screens, and the sensitivity of the sensor. OLED-The display allows you to select multiple dials, although the choice of built-in options is limited.
The settings menu recommends setting the correct time zone, time format (12/24 hours) and units of measurement (kilometers/miles) immediately. It is also worth activating the wrist lift function to turn on the screen if it is available in your version of the firmware, which will make use of it more comfortable.
Don't forget to set up notifications from apps. You can choose which messengers or social networks will broadcast their messages on your wrist, which will eliminate unnecessary noise and vibration, leaving only really important information.
- ⌚ Select a convenient dial in the section "Profile" -> "Settings of the device".
- 📱 Set up a list of apps for notifications in the "Application Notifications" menu".
- 🔔 Adjust vibration and do not disturb mode for night time.
- 🌐 Synchronize time automatically over the Internet when connecting to your phone.
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Full functionality of the bracelet is disclosed only after setting up in the Mi Fit application, where firmware updates and advanced notification settings are available.