How to insert it correctly SIM-Map in Xiaomi Redmi 5: a guide with photos and life hacks

Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 5 remains a popular choice due to the balance of price and functionality, but even such a proven device has nuances – for example, the installation of the device. SIM-If you are first encounter with a hybrid tray of this device or are afraid of damaging contacts, this article will help you to understand all the details. We will not only show you where to insert the cards, but also explain how to avoid common mistakes (such as jamming contacts or mispositioning) that can lead to a network missing or slot damage.

Redmi 5 features support for two Nano-SIMs (or one SIM + MicroSD up to 256 GB), but many users confuse the sides of the tray or can not remove it without a special tool. In this guide, you will find step-by-step photos, a unique contact diagram for different operators, as well as tips for choosing adapters and bypassing card recognition problems. If after installation the phone does not see SIM, we have a separate section with solutions!

Preparation: What you need to install SIM in Redmi 5

Before you start installing, make sure you have everything you need. Unlike modern flagships, where the tray is often extended with the nail, the Xiaomi Redmi 5 requires a more careful approach.

  • πŸ“± Smartphone Xiaomi Redmi 5 (off – this will reduce the risk of short circuit when manipulating the tray).
  • πŸ”¦ Flashlight or good lighting (the tray contacts are shallow and easy to damage in the dark).

It is important that you use two SIM-maps, make sure they support the same network, for example, some operators (like Television).2) can conflict with MTS or Beeline cards in mode 4G/4G. Check compatibility in advance in network settings (Settings) β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks).

πŸ“Š What? SIM-You are using the card in Xiaomi Redmi 5?
One Nano-SIM.
Two Nano-SIMs
SIM + MicroSD
I haven't put it in yet.

Where is the SIM slot in Xiaomi Redmi 5: photo and diagram

Tray for SIM-The maps in Redmi 5 are on the left side of the device (if you look at the screen), and it's easy to recognize by the little hole next to it, which is the staple socket:

Inside the tray there are two sections:

  1. The top one is for the first Nano-SIM (designated SIM 1).
  2. The lower one is for the second Nano-SIM or MicroSD (designated as SIM 2/TF).

Notice the color tags on the tray, which is usually blue on the top and red on the bottom, which helps you not confuse the sides when you install them. If you don't have the labels, look at the notch in the corner of the tray, which should match the shape of the slot on your phone.

What is a hybrid slot?
A hybrid slot means you can use either two Nano-SIMs or one Nano-SIM+MicroSD. You can’t insert two SIMs and a memory card at the same time!

Step-by-step: how to remove and insert the tray

Now, let's get to the process itself, and follow the instructions carefully so that you don't damage the contacts.

  1. Turn off the phone. It's a must-have step, so inserting SIM when the device is on can cause the communication module to malfunction.
  2. Find a hole for the paperclip on the left side of the smartphone (see photo above).
  3. Put the paperclip in the hole all the way up. You should hear a slight click, which means that the tray is unlocked.
  4. Carefully pull the tray over the protruding part. Don't make any effort -- if it doesn't come out, check if the paperclip is fully in.

If the tray is stuck, don't pull it by force, it can damage the mechanism. Try to sway the clip slightly inside the hole or press it again. Use tweezers as a last resort, but be extremely careful.

The box is completely removed from the phone.|Contacts on the tray and SIM-clean card (no dust, no fat)|SIM-map is trimmed to the size of Nano (12.3Γ—8.8 mm)|The cutout on the tray matches the cutout in the phone slot-->

How to place correctly SIM-cardboard

This is the most critical stage. Incorrect placement of the SIM can lead to the fact that the phone will not see the network or damage contacts.

  • πŸ“± The Nano-SIM should be placed in the pins down (metallic part to the tray).The cut corner of the card should match the cut angle of the tray section.
  • πŸͺͺ MicroSD (if used) is inserted with metal contacts upwards (unlike the ones used in the microSD). SIM!). It occupies the entire lower section.
  • ⚠️ Don't force the cards, they should lie down freely. SIM It doesn’t fit, check its size (it’s probably a Micro-SIM, not a Nano).

The diagram below shows the correct location for different combinations:

CombinationUpper section (SIM 1)Lower section (SIM 2/TF)
Two. SIM-mapNano-SIM (Contacts Down)Nano-SIM (Contacts Down)
SIM + MicroSDNano-SIM (Contacts Down)MicroSD (Contacts Up)
Only MicroSD.Empty.MicroSD (Contacts Up)

Attention! If you use a Micro-SIM adapter, make sure it doesn't have protruding plastic parts that can interfere with the tray closing, and it's better to trim the SIM to the size of the Nano beforehand, which is more reliable.

πŸ’‘

If you don’t have a paper clip, you can use an unbended stationery brace or even a toothpick (but gently so as not to break it inside the hole).

What to do if Redmi 5 doesn’t see you SIM-map

Sometimes, even after installation, the phone doesn't recognize the SIM, and here are the most common reasons and solutions:

  • πŸ”„ Reboot the phone. Sometimes the communication module is reset after insertion. SIM.
  • 🧹 Clear the contacts. SIM and a tray with dry soft fabric (you can use an eraser for a pencil).
  • πŸ“Ά Check your network settings. Go to Settings. β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks and select the right operator manually.
  • πŸ”§ Update software: Outdated firmware can cause recognition problems SIM. Check for updates in Settings β†’ The phone. β†’ Updating the system.
  • 🚨 Check it out. SIM If the card doesn't work there, it's the problem, not the Redmi 5.

If nothing works, maybe the tray or contacts inside the phone are damaged, in which case repairs will be required. Don't try to disassemble the phone yourself - in Redmi 5, the tray is connected to the motherboard with thin plumes that are easily damaged.

⚠️ Attention, if after installation SIM Your phone is overheating or running out of power, immediately remove the card, which may indicate a short circuit in the slot.

How to trim a regular SIM to Nano for Redmi 5: a safe way

If you only have a standard or Micro-SIM, you can trim it to the size of a Nano. Here's how to do it without risking damage to the chip:

  1. Put the SIM on the trim pattern (you can print it from the Internet or circle it using the old Nano-SIM).
  2. Circle the circuit with a pencil, retreating 1 mm from the edges of the chip (this is a margin in case of error).
  3. Carefully trim the excess plastic with a stationery knife or scissors. Don't use clippers - they can crumble the map.
  4. Clean the edges with sandpaper (granularity 1000-1500) so that they do not scratch the tray.

Check that the chip is intact and contacts are intact. If in doubt, you should buy an adapter (costs about 50-100 rubles) or contact the operator for a new Nano-SIM.

πŸ’‘

Never cut the SIM by eye - even millimeter bias can damage the chip. Use a template or an old Nano-SIM as a stencil.

Frequent Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Even experienced users sometimes make mistakes when installing SIM in Redmi 5.

  • πŸ”€ If you put it upside down, the contacts won't match, and the phone won't see. SIM. Always focus on the cut corner.
  • πŸ’₯ Strength to extract. If the tray doesn't come out, don't push the staples too hard, so you can break the locking mechanism. Try wiggling the staples or using a thinner tool.
  • πŸ“΅ Dirty contacts. Dust, fat, or oxidation on contacts. SIM Or a tray can lead to a bad connection. Clean them regularly with a soft cloth.
  • πŸ”‹ Installation with your phone on. Although it sometimes works, the risk of failure of the communication module increases.

Another common problem is that you use a MicroSD in a SIM 1 slot. Remember, the MicroSD is only inserted into the lower section (designated as SIM 2/TF)! If you try to shove it into the top section, it will damage the contacts.

⚠️ If you notice that the spring inside the slot has fallen out after removing the tray, don't try to insert it back yourself. This requires a complete disassembly of the phone and you'd better trust the professionals.

Can Redmi 5 use both SIM and MicroSD at the same time?
No, it's impossible. Xiaomi Redmi 5 has a hybrid slot, where the lower section is designed for either the second SIM or for MicroSD. You can't install two SIMs and a memory card at the same time.
What if the paper clip broke inside the hole for the tray?
Don't panic. Take a thin needle or pin and try to push the debris out gently. If you don't, go to a service center, because trying to get the shard yourself can damage the mechanism.
Does Redmi support the 5? 4G both SIM-card?
No, just one. SIM can operate 4G (usually SIM 1). Second second SIM will be limited 3G/2G. To change priority, go to Settings. β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Preferred network.
How to check if the SIM slot works in Redmi 5?
Put in a knowingly working one. SIM-The card (checked on the other phone) is in turn in both sections of the tray, and if the phone doesn't see the card in either of the slots, the problem is with the device itself.
Can I use the Redmi 5A tray in Redmi 5?
No, the trays of these models are not interchangeable, despite the appearance of similarities. The Redmi 5A has a different configuration of contacts, and installing its tray in Redmi 5 will lead to no network.