Replacement of curtains (or IR-Filter) on Xiaomi devices β 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.
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:
- π Blurrency of text - the letters on the screen appear "soapy", especially against a white background.
- π Loss of contrast β black turns grey and dark scenes in movies appear βfadedΒ».
- π‘ Glare and rainbow divorces β in bright light, colored spots appear on the screen, even when viewed directly.
- πΌοΈ Scratches or cracks β physical damage that does not disappear when you wipe the screen.
- π Color distortion β 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.
β οΈ Warning: Donβt confuse curtain problems and matrix malfunction! If broken pixels (dots that donβt change color), vertical/horizontal lines or the entire screen βgot in stripesβ 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:
- π Size β should match the screen diagonal (e.g. 55, 65, 75").
- π§ Type of fastening - adhesive base or magnetic latches (in new models).
- π¨ Type of coating - matte, glossy or anti-reflective (AG coating).
- π Polarization β 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:
| Platform | Pluses | Cons | Average price (ruble) |
|---|---|---|---|
| AliExpress | Great choice, original and unoriginal options | Long delivery (2-4 Weeks, risk of getting into a fake | 1 200 β 3 500 |
| Amazon | Quick delivery (if ordered from a local warehouse), reliable sellers | Prices higher on 20-30%, limited range for Russia | 2 000 β 4 500 |
| Local services (Yandex Market, OZON, Beru) | Quick delivery, possibility of pick-up, reviews in Russian | Few original parts, most often - universal Chinese counterparts | 1 500 β 3 000 |
| Xiaomi Service Centers | Compatibility guarantee, original details | Price 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 canβt find the article, write the seller a model of the TV and ask for confirmation of compatibility.
π‘
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:
- π§ Plastic blades (or mediators) - for careful undercutting of the frame.
- π§² Magnetic screwdriver (cross, size) PH0 or PH1) β screw-holder.
- π§΄ Isopropyl alcohol (90%+) β screen-cleaning and glue-free frame.
- π§» Microfiber wipes (without pile!) - for cleaning.
- π Line or bar - to check the alignment of the new curtain.
- π₯ 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).
β οΈ 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?
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!
π‘
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).
- π The edges of the curtain coincide with the edges of the active region of the matrix (do not go beyond them).
- π No distortions - check diagonals with the ruler.
- πΌοΈ 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 β you can not use it!
Step 3: Fixing
If the curtain on the double-sided scotch:
- Remove the protective film on one side and apply the curtain to the screen, starting at the top edge.
- Carefully press it with a soft cloth (such as a microfiber), moving from the center to the edges to avoid bubbles.
- 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.
β οΈ 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:
- Set the screen frame in place, starting at the top, make sure all latches are tight.
- Fix the back cover, gently pressing it around the perimeter.
- Connect the TV to the network and turn it on.
Check the quality of the installation:
- π― Color rendering β run a test video with bright colors (e.g., on YouTube, look for a video Β«4K Color TestΒ»).
- π Contrast β 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.
- π Clear text β 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.
π‘
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:
- π΄ Red: 50
- π’ Green: 50
- π΅ Blue: 50
Then turn on the gray scale test image (you can find it on Google for the βgray scale testβ) 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 consequences | How to avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Use of an unoriginal curtain | Color distortion, glare, loss of contrast | Only buy marked OEM Or Original, check the articulation |
| Sticking the curtain curve | Image blur, wavy lines | Use the ruler to align, start gluing from the top edge |
| Dust falling under the curtain | Visible dots or divorces on screen | Work in a clean room, use an antistatic napkin |
| Too strong pressing during installation | Bubbles or cracks on the curtain | Press with a soft cloth, without pressure |
| Use of inappropriate glue | The 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.