How do you put it in? SIM-Map in Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus: instructions with photos and tips

Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus is a popular smartphone released in 2018, which is still actively used due to its reliability and balanced characteristics. SIM-cards, especially if you have not previously dealt with hybrid slots or nano-SIM. In this article, we will understand how to insert the SIM in the Redmi 5 Plus, what types of cards are supported, and what to do if the phone does not see the network after installing.

The model features a hybrid slot, which means you can use either two nano-SIMs, or one nano-SIM and a microSD card (up to 256 GB).This is convenient but requires care - improper installation can lead to damage to contacts or loss of communication. We will detail each step from map preparation to signal validation, and give tips for fixing typical problems.

If you just bought a Redmi 5 Plus used or pulled it out after a long downtime, this guide will help avoid errors, for example, many users try to insert a micro-SIM without an adapter, which leads to a slot jam, or forget to restart the phone after installation - and then wonder why there is no network. We took into account all the nuances to make the process go smoothly.

1. Which one? SIM-The cards are supported by Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus

Before inserting the SIM, make sure it fits the format. Redmi 5 Plus works exclusively with nano-SIM (4FF format, size 12.3 × 8.8 × 0.67 mm). If you have a different size card (mini-SIM or micro-SIM), it will have to be cropped or replaced in the operator's cabin. Using an inappropriate SIM can damage the slot contacts!

Key points:

• 📱 Supported formats: nano-SIM (4FF) eSIM (only in some regions requires verification).
• 🔄 Hybrid slot: You can install either 2 nano-SIM or 1 nano-SIM + microSD.
• ⚡ Maximum microSD capacity: up to 256 GB (format) FAT32 exFAT).
• 🌍 Network support: 2G, 3G, 4G LTE (depends on the operator).

If you plan to use two SIMs, note that the second card (slot 2) does not support 4G - it will only work on 2G/3G networks. This is a hardware limitation, it cannot be circumvented software. For maximum Internet speed, place the main SIM in the first slot.

2. What will be required for installation SIM-map

To insert the SIM into Redmi 5 Plus, prepare the following tools and accessories:

• 🔧 A paper clip or needle (complete with your phone) to remove the tray.
• 📇 Nano-SIM (if you have a micro-SIM, you’ll need an adapter or cropping).
• 🔍 Lantern (optional) - will help to consider the connector in a poorly lit place.
• 🧲 Tweezers (if the sim stuck or you need to carefully adjust the tray).

If you don't have the original Xiaomi paper clip, any thin metal needle or unbended stationery clip will do, as long as it doesn't bend when pressed, otherwise you can damage the tray locking mechanism, and also make sure that the SIM is free of chipping or contamination: dust or greasy spots on the contacts can cause network recognition problems.

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If you cut the micro-SIM to nano-SIM yourself, use the template and leave a reserve of 0.1-0.2 mm - so the card will not get stuck in the slot.

3 Where is the slot for SIM-Maps in Redmi 5 Plus

In Redmi 5 Plus, there is a slot for SIM-The card is located on the left side of the phone (if you look at the screen), it is easy to recognize by the small hole for the paper clip and the characteristic contour of the tray. SIM card-pictogram.

Visually determine the location can be as follows:

1. Take the phone in your right hand with the screen.
2. Look at the left end - there you will see an oval hole with a diameter of ~ 1 mm.
3. The sleeve is a sleeve that is hidden under the sleeve.

Note: Do not confuse the slot for SIM-cards with a headphone jack (3.5 mm) or a microphone — they are located on the upper and lower borders respectively. If you can't find the hole, maybe there's a case on the phone — remove it to access it.

4. Step-by-step instruction: how to insert SIM-map

Now, let's get to the process itself. Follow the instructions in order to avoid errors.

1. Turn off the phone.Although the Redmi 5 Plus supports hot replacement SIM-cards (no switching off) we recommend turning off power – this will reduce the risk of damage to contacts.
2. Put the paperclip in the hole. Press with force until the tray is extended by 2-3 mm. Don't apply excessive force - just a click is enough.
3. Remove the tray. Pull it right over you. If the tray doesn't come out, check if it's jammed because of the deformation.
4. Place it. SIM-There are layouts on the tray: the SIM should be in the contacts down, and the bevelled angle should match the notch.
5. Put the tray back in. Press it until you click. Make sure it sits flat, and it can cause bad contact.
6. Turn on your phone. Wait for the system to boot and check if the network is in the status bar.

If you install two SIMs, place them according to the label on the tray: SIM 1 (main) and SIM 2 (additional). For microSD, use the SIM 2 slot, but remember that in this case the second SIM will not work.

5. Frequent mistakes and how to avoid them

Even with the seemingly simple process, users often make mistakes that lead to a network being lost or a phone being damaged, and consider the most common ones:

Pay special attention to the status of the contacts on the SIM and in the slot. If they are oxidized or contaminated, wipe them with a soft cloth soaked in alcohol. Do not use abrasive materials - they can damage the gilded coating.

⚠️ Note: If after installing the SIM, the phone says "No network" or "SIM-card not recognized", do not rush to bring it to the service. First try to restart the device, check the correct installation of the map and update the network settings in the Settings menu → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Network settings.

6 How to check that SIM-card installed correctly

After you install the SIM, you need to make sure that the phone recognizes it.

1. Turn on the Redmi 5 Plus and wait for the full download.
2. Check the status bar at the top of the screen – the signal level (bars or 4G/3G icon) should be displayed there.
3. Open the Settings. → The phone. → Status. SIM-Make sure that the phone number is displayed and IMEI.
4. Try to make a test call or send an SMS.

If there is no signal, follow the following steps:

• 🔄 Reboot the phone.
• 📶 Manually select the operator network in the settings (Settings) → SIM-maps and mobile networks → Choice of network).
• 🔧 Check if the "In the plane" mode is activated (Settings) → Connections → Flight mode).
• 📞 Contact the operator – the problem may be on the provider’s side.

If the phone still doesn't see the SIM, remove the tray and check:

• Did the card move in the slot?
• There's no visible damage to the contacts.
• Is the tray properly installed (should sit tightly, without backlash).

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If the SIM doesn't work after all the manipulations, try installing it on another phone, and if the problem persists, the card is defective and needs to be replaced.

7 Can I use eSIM in Redmi 5 Plus?

Officially, the Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus does not support eSIM — it only provides a physical slot for nano-SIM. However, in some regions (for example, in India), operators offer hybrid solutions when the eSIM is emulated through the application.

If you need eSIM support, consider newer Xiaomi models, such as:

• Xiaomi 12T Pro (eSIM + physical SIM support)
• Redmi Note 11 Pro+ 5G (hybrid slot)
• POCO F4 GT (double eSIM in some versions)

Redmi 5 Plus could be an alternative to virtualization. SIM-Maps via apps like Airalo or GigSky, but they are only suitable for mobile internet, not for calls.

FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions