Replacement of curtains on Xiaomi: from the selection of components to the exact setting

Replacement of curtains (or IR-Filter) on Xiaomi devices – a challenge faced by owners of TV series Mi TV, Mi Surface Display monitors and even some of the brand's projectors, most often due to physical damage (scratches, cracks), burnout of the coating or factory defects that manifest over time, but the process requires care: Incorrect choice of spare parts or errors in installation can lead to deterioration of color reproduction, glare or even damage to the matrix.

In this article, we will look at the whole process from A to Z: how to find a compatible curtain for your Xiaomi model, dismantle the old one without risking damage to the screen, install a new one with the correct alignment, and calibrate the display after replacement. We will focus on the typical errors that beginners make, and give recommendations on tools. If your TV or monitor starts showing a blurred image, soapy slashes on a dark background or lost contrast, most likely the problem is in the curtain.

Before you start, make sure the reason is not the screen settings. Try resetting the image settings in the Settings menu. β†’ Display and sound β†’ Image mode β†’ If the problem persists, read on.

πŸ“Š What Xiaomi device are you repairing?
Mi TV's a TV. TV (model)
The Mi Surface Display Monitor
Projector Mi.
Other devices

1. How to determine if it is time to change the curtain: 5 key signs

A curtain (also known as an infrared filter or polarization film) is a thin layer between the matrix and the protective glass that is responsible for contrast, viewing angles and protection against glare. It wears out over time, and these are the symptoms that indicate the need for replacement:

  • πŸ” Blurrency of text - the letters on the screen appear "soapy", especially against a white background.
  • πŸŒ‘ Loss of contrast – black turns grey and dark scenes in movies appear β€œfadedΒ».
  • πŸ’‘ Glare and rainbow divorces – in bright light, colored spots appear on the screen, even when viewed directly.
  • πŸ–ΌοΈ Scratches or cracks – physical damage that does not disappear when you wipe the screen.
  • πŸ”„ Color distortion – shades become unnatural (for example, green becomes bluish).

If you're watching at least 2-3 The sign from the list, the probability of wear of the curtain is 90%. For final diagnosis, you can use a dead pixel test: run monochromatic screensavers (black, red, green, blue) on the screen, and you will see spots or uneven lighting on the worn curtain.

⚠️ Warning: Don’t confuse curtain problems and matrix malfunction! If broken pixels (dots that don’t change color), vertical/horizontal lines or the entire screen β€œgot in stripes” appear on the screen, this is damage to the matrix, and replacing the curtain will not help.

2. Choosing a new curtain: compatibility and where to buy

The main mistake when replacing is to buy an incompatible curtain. Xiaomi has several types of filters that differ in:

  • πŸ“ Size – should match the screen diagonal (e.g. 55, 65, 75").
  • πŸ”§ Type of fastening - adhesive base or magnetic latches (in new models).
  • 🎨 Type of coating - matte, glossy or anti-reflective (AG coating).
  • πŸ” Polarization – must match the original (usually indicated in the characteristics).

To avoid mistakes, find an exact model of your device (e.g., Mi). TV 4S 55" or Mi Surface Display 27") and look for a curtain marked OEM Or Original. Best places to buy:

PlatformPlusesConsAverage price (ruble)
AliExpressGreat choice, original and unoriginal optionsLong delivery (2-4 Weeks, risk of getting into a fake1 200 β€” 3 500
AmazonQuick delivery (if ordered from a local warehouse), reliable sellersPrices higher on 20-30%, limited range for Russia2 000 β€” 4 500
Local services (Yandex Market, OZON, Beru)Quick delivery, possibility of pick-up, reviews in RussianFew original parts, most often - universal Chinese counterparts1 500 β€” 3 000
Xiaomi Service CentersCompatibility guarantee, original detailsPrice is high, not all centers sell parts separately.3 000 β€” 6 000

When buying, pay attention to the article of the curtain - it must match the original. TV 4A 32" that could be MDZ-21-AB, and Mi TV Q1 55" β€” L55M6-QL1. If you can’t find the article, write the seller a model of the TV and ask for confirmation of compatibility.

πŸ’‘

Before buying, check if there is a double-sided scotch complete with the curtain. 3M If you don't, buy them separately, because the old ones can't be used after dismantling.

Preparation for replacement: tools and safety

To replace the curtain, you will need:

  • πŸ”§ Plastic blades (or mediators) - for careful undercutting of the frame.
  • 🧲 Magnetic screwdriver (cross, size) PH0 or PH1) β€” screw-holder.
  • 🧴 Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) β€” screen-cleaning and glue-free frame.
  • 🧻 Microfiber wipes (without pile!) - for cleaning.
  • πŸ“ Line or bar - to check the alignment of the new curtain.
  • πŸ”₯ Hair dryer (optional) - to soften the glue if the curtain is glued too strongly.

Also, prepare a clean workplace: a desk with no garbage, good lighting (but not direct sunlight!), and a grounded antistatic bracelet (if any).

⚠️ Warning: Never use metal tools to frame your frames! Even a slight scratch can ruin the anti-reflective coating of the matrix. If you don't have plastic shoulder blades, an old bank card will do.

Before starting work, disconnect the TV from the network and let it stand. 10-15 If you're replacing the curtain on the Mi Surface Display, you're also disconnecting the cable. HDMI/DP and USB.

Make sure the problem is in the curtain (take tests)

Buy a compatible curtain with fasteners

Prepare tools (scapula, screwdriver, alcohol)

Clean the workplace of dust and debris

Disconnect the device from the network and let cool down-->

4. Step-by-step instruction: remove the old curtain

The dismantling process depends on the Xiaomi model, but the overall scheme is the same. TV 4/4S/4A.

Step 1 Remove the back cover

Put the TV down on a soft surface (towel or foam). Carefully put a plastic latch blade around the perimeter of the back cover. Start at the corner, which is usually the least mounting. The screws under the lid don't need to be unscrewed unless you plan to take the TV completely apart.

Step 2. Disconnect the screen frame

The screen frame is mounted on the latches and double-sided tape. Heat the edge of the frame with a hair dryer (temperature no higher than that). 50Β°C!) during 1-2 You can start at the bottom of the perimeter with a blade, because there's usually less wire.

What to do if the frame fails?
If the frame is not removed even after heating, try to stretch a thin string (such as a guitar) between the frame and the screen, neatly cutting the glue. Do this as close as possible to the frame so as not to damage the curtain.

Step 3: Remove the old curtain

Now you'll see the curtain itself, a thin film glued to the glass, which in new models can be attached to magnets, and you can gently tuck the corner with a plastic blade, and slowly separate the curtain from the screen, and if it breaks, it's okay, so don't damage the matrix underneath.

After removal, wipe the screen with a microfiber wipe dipped in isopropyl alcohol to remove the glue residue. Don't push hard - the matrix is fragile!

πŸ’‘

If there are still bits of glue on the matrix, do not scrape them with a nail or metal! Use a wooden stick or a plastic spatula soaked in alcohol.

Installation of a new curtain: alignment and fastening

This is the most critical stage, and even a slight shift in the curtain will cause the image to be distorted.

Step 1 Checking the new curtain

Take a new curtain out of the package and check for defects, like scratches, bubbles, or factory defects. If the curtain is adhesive, don't remove the protective film right away, you need to align it first.

Step 2. Alignment

Put the curtain on the screen without glue (if it's magnetized, just put it on).

  • πŸ“ The edges of the curtain coincide with the edges of the active region of the matrix (do not go beyond them).
  • πŸ”„ No distortions - check diagonals with the ruler.
  • πŸ–ΌοΈ Xiaomi logo (if any) is in the correct position (usually downtown).

If the curtain is larger or smaller than the screen, then you bought the wrong model – you can not use it!

Step 3: Fixing

If the curtain on the double-sided scotch:

  1. Remove the protective film on one side and apply the curtain to the screen, starting at the top edge.
  2. Carefully press it with a soft cloth (such as a microfiber), moving from the center to the edges to avoid bubbles.
  3. Make sure there is no dust left under the curtain - if there are motifs, gently tuck the edge and remove them.

If you have a curtain on a magnet, just pair it with the mounts on the frame, and the magnets have to click in place.

⚠️ Warning: Never use superglue curtains or moment to stick! Only specialized double-sided tape 3M Or the original adhesive layer, or the next time you dismantle, you'll damage the matrix.

6. Assembly of the device and initial inspection

After installing the curtain, it remains to assemble the TV in reverse order:

  1. Set the screen frame in place, starting at the top, make sure all latches are tight.
  2. Fix the back cover, gently pressing it around the perimeter.
  3. Connect the TV to the network and turn it on.

Check the quality of the installation:

  • 🎯 Color rendering – run a test video with bright colors (e.g., on YouTube, look for a video Β«4K Color TestΒ»).
  • πŸ“Š Contrast – turn on the black screen (you can use the settings Image mode) β†’ Customized β†’ Contrast: 100) It should be uniformly black, without gray spots.
  • πŸ” Clear text – open the TV menu and check if the text is blurry.

If the image is distorted, then the curtain is curved, and then we'll have to repeat the process, aligning it more carefully around the edges.

πŸ’‘

After replacing the curtains, reset the image settings to the factory (Settings) β†’ Display and sound β†’ Resetting image settings: This will help avoid color distortions associated with previous calibration.

7.Scaling of the screen after the curtain has been replaced

Even if the curtain is perfectly set, you may need software setup to restore the factory settings.

1.Setting up white balance

Go to Settings. β†’ Display and sound β†’ Image mode β†’ Customized and install:

  • πŸ”΄ Red: 50
  • 🟒 Green: 50
  • πŸ”΅ Blue: 50

Then turn on the gray scale test image (you can find it on Google for the β€œgray scale test”) and adjust the values so that all shades of gray look neutral, without the color tint.

2. Setting up sharpness

In the same menu, find the Sharp option and set the value. 30-40 (diagonally 55" If you put more, you put more. 50, There will be a "noise" of the picture.

Verification of viewing angles

Look at the screen from an angle of 45.Β°. If the colors are strongly distorted, then the curtain is installed on the wrong side (relevant for models with a different color). AG We'll have to take it off and turn it over.

Specialized applications such as CalMAN or DisplayCAL can be used for precise calibration, but they require a calibrator connection (e.g., X-Rite). i1Display Pro).

8. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced craftsmen sometimes make mistakes when replacing curtains.

Mistake.Effects of consequencesHow to avoid
Use of an unoriginal curtainColor distortion, glare, loss of contrastOnly buy marked OEM Or Original, check the articulation
Sticking the curtain curveImage blur, wavy linesUse the ruler to align, start gluing from the top edge
Dust falling under the curtainVisible dots or divorces on screenWork in a clean room, use an antistatic napkin
Too strong pressing during installationBubbles or cracks on the curtainPress with a soft cloth, without pressure
Use of inappropriate glueThe curtain will fall off in a few days.Use only bilateral scotch 3M origen

If you have vertical stripes or a flickering screen after you replace the curtain, the problem is not with the curtain, but with the matrix or plumes, and you should contact the service center.

FAQ: Frequent questions about replacing the curtain with Xiaomi

Can I replace the curtain myself if I don’t have experience?
Yes, but only if you are confident and willing to take risks, the main thing is to take your time and follow the instructions, if you are afraid of damaging the matrix, you should contact the service, the average price for replacing a curtain in the workshop is 2,500-5000 rubles (excluding spare parts).
How long does it take to replace the curtain?
With tools and experience, it takes about 1-1.5 hours for beginners to take up to 3 hours, especially if the curtain is heavily glued.
What is different about the curtain for Mi TV and the Mi Surface Display?
Curtains for TVs are usually thinner and have anti-reflective coating (AG coating, and for monitors, matte, with better color reproduction, and they also differ in mounts: in TVs, glue is more often used, in monitors, magnets are more often used.
Can I wash the curtain if it is dirty?
No! The curtain is an optical filter, and when it gets moisture, it deforms, and if it gets stains, it needs to be replaced, and you can only wipe it with a dry microfiber without pressing.
Why did the screen become dull after the curtain was replaced?
This can be due to two reasons: 1) the curtain is mounted on the wrong side (turn it over); 2 you bought a curtain with lower light transmission (for example, for an office monitor instead of a TV).