Xiaomi Redmi 5 is one of the most popular budget smartphones of the brand, released in 2017. Despite its age, the device is still actively used due to the reliable filling and the ability to install two devices. SIM-However, many users have questions about where the slot is located. SIM, How to insert the card correctly so as not to damage contacts, and what to do if the phone does not see the network after installation.
In this article, we will discuss the installation process. SIM-Redmi 5 cards in steps from tool preparation to activation of the mobile network. SIM-We also tell you how to avoid common mistakes, such as improper cropping of the nano-SIM or damage to the tray.
If you’ve just purchased a Xiaomi Redmi 5 or are considering a change of carrier, this guide will help you do it quickly and without risk to the device, and for those who have experienced problems after installation, we’ve prepared a section on solutions to the most common problems.
Preparation for installation: what you need to know before starting
Before starting the installation SIM-maps, make sure you have everything you need. Xiaomi Redmi 5 supports nano-SIM (4FF) — This is the smallest format used in modern smartphones, and if you have an old-style card (mini-SIM or micro-SIM), it will have to be cut or replaced in the cabin of the operator.
Also note the type of slot: Redmi 5 uses a hybrid slot, which means you can install either two nano-SIMs or one. SIM + microSD card (up to 256 GB) to use two SIM-Cards and flash drives are not allowed – you will have to choose.
- 📱 Xiaomi Redmi 5 (off!).
- 🔧 Paperclip or special key for extracting the tray (comes complete).
If you are planning to use two SIM-maps, make sure they support the right ranges of the network.Redmi 5 standardizes 2G/3G/4G LTE, second SIM-card 2) supports 2G/3G — This is important for those who want to use it. 4G main-room.
Where is the slot for SIM-Maps in Xiaomi Redmi 5
Unlike some Xiaomi models, where the slot is located under the battery, Redmi 5 uses a tray mechanism. It is on the left side of the device - next to the volume buttons. To avoid confusion, note the small hole: this is a socket for the paper clip.
If you hold the phone with the screen to your side, the slot will be on the left at the top of the case. On some versions of the Redmi 5 (for example, the Redmi 5 Plus), the layout is identical, but the size of the tray may vary slightly - don't worry, they are interchangeable.
How to distinguish Redmi 5 from Redmi 5A or Redmi 5 Plus?
Don't try to open the slot by force - it can damage the mechanism. If the hole is clogged with dust, gently clean it with a toothpick, but do not use sharp objects so as not to scratch the body.
Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map in Redmi 5
Now, let's get to the process. Follow the instructions carefully to avoid errors:
- Turn off your smartphone. It's a must-have -- hot replacement. SIM-The card may cause failures in the communication module.
- Take a paper clip or key from the kit and gently insert it into the hole on the side of the face. Press until you click, the tray will move out a little bit.
- Remove the tray completely by pulling it over you. Don't put too much effort into not breaking the guides.
- Put it down. SIM-map(s) in appropriate slots: 📱 Slot 1 (upper) - the main SIM, supportive 4G LTE. 📱 Slot 2 (bottom) - second SIM MicroSD (only one option!).
Make sure the card is down with the contacts.
Carefully insert the tray back in
Turn on the phone.
The tray is inserted to the point and does not bulge |
SIM-card doesn't stagger|
Contacts card not scratched |
The phone is turned off during installation-->
If a notice has been issued after the "SIM-The card is not found, take out the tray and check if the card is installed correctly.
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If the tray is stuck and doesn't retract, don't try to pull it out with pliers! Put the phone on a flat surface, press the tray slightly on the side, and try again to press the paper clip, which usually helps to move the mechanism from the dead point.
What to do if Xiaomi Redmi 5 doesn’t see it SIM-map
Even when installed correctly, SIM recognition problems can sometimes occur, and here are the most common causes and ways to fix them:
| Problem. | Possible cause | Decision |
|---|---|---|
| Phone can't see SIM | Card inactivated by the operator | Call the operator or check the status through your personal account |
| There's a "No Network" error. | Wrong APN settings | Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Access points (APN) and select the automatic setting |
| SIM only works with 2G | Second SIM does not support 4G | Change the maps (slot 1 supports 4G) |
| Phone's asking. PUK-code | Three times injected with an incorrect PIN | Find a PUK on a plastic SIM holder or ask the operator |
If none of these methods worked, try inserting. SIM-You can also upgrade Redmi 5 to the latest version of the phone, and sometimes communication errors are fixed in new versions. MIUI.
⚠️ Attention: If after installation SIM-The card phone stopped turning on or constantly restarts, most likely, the slot contacts are damaged. In this case, do not try to fix the device yourself - contact the service center.
How to set up two SIM-Maps in Xiaomi Redmi 5
One of the key benefits of Redmi 5 is that it supports Dual-SIM (DSDS), which means you can use two numbers at the same time, but with some limitations:
- 📞 Both SIM active, but only one can work in 4G (slot 1).
- 🔄 Switching between cards is done manually in the call menu.
- 📶 The Internet is operated by default through the first SIM, But you can change the settings.
To set priorities:
- Go to Settings. → SIM-maps and mobile networks.
- Select "Dual SIM Settings".
- Specify which SIM to use for calls, SMS and mobile Internet.
- Activate the option “Enable 4G” for the main card.
If you want the second SIM to work in 4G, you will have to sacrifice the memory card – in a hybrid slot you can not use both microSD and two SIMs with LTE support.
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In Redmi 5, you can’t use two 4G-SIMs at the same time – only one (in slot 1) supports LTE. The second will run in 3G at most.
Pruning SIM-Nano-SIM cards: Can you do it yourself?
If you only have a micro-SIM or a mini-SIM, you can trim it to the size of a nano-SIM, but it's risky. A 1 mm error can damage the contacts or the slot itself. We recommend that you contact the communications salon, they will do it for free in 5 minutes.
If you decide to cut the card yourself:
- Download the template for cropping (available freely on the Internet).
- Put the pattern on the map and circle the marker.
- Carefully trim the excess with scissors or a stationery knife.
- Clean the edges with sandpaper (small grain) so that there are no burrs.
⚠️ Note: If the phone does not see after the pruning SIM-You can fold the contacts in the slot, you can buy a new nano-SIM from the operator.
There are also nano-SIM adapters available for sale that allow you to use it in micro-SIM slots, but they won't work for Redmi 5, because it's a nano format.
Frequent errors when installing SIM in Xiaomi Redmi 5
Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes that lead to communication problems, and here are the most common ones:
- 🔄 Installation SIM If you're using a microSD, the second one is off. SIM It won’t work – the hybrid slot only supports one option.
- 📵 Ignoring PIN-If the card is locked, the phone won't connect to the network until you enter the code.
- 🔌 Contact damage: A strong tap on the tray or improperly installing the card can bend the contacts in the slot.
- 📡 Inconsistency of standards, for example, if the operator only works in 4G, second SIM slotted LTE.
Another common problem is getting dust or moisture into the slot. SIM-cards, before installation, carefully blow the hole for the tray with compressed air (for example, a spray for cleaning equipment).
If after all the manipulations, the connection did not appear, check whether the phone is not on flight mode or saving charge (it can turn off the mobile network to save energy).