Installing a mobile operator card is the first action to take after buying a new Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 smartphone. Although the procedure seems elementary, careless handling of the tray can damage the extraction mechanism or even break the motherboard. Device owners often face the question of which side is the right tool and how to correctly arrange the chips in the combined slot.
In this article, we will discuss the installation algorithm in detail. SIM-This is the model that's designed for this model, and you'll learn where the micro-hole for the paper clip is on the device body, how to distinguish the top tray from the bottom tray, and what to do if the card is not recognized by the system after it's turned on. The correct sequence of actions guarantees a long service life of contacts and a stable network signal.
Before you start physically affecting the body of a smartphone, it is strongly recommended to turn off the device, although modern Hot-Swap standards often allow you to change cards on the go. However, to avoid software failures in the definition of the network or short circuit contacts, it is better to be safe. Let's look at the necessary tools and preparatory steps.
Tools and workplace preparation
To successfully retrieve the tray, you'll need a special key-clip, which usually comes with a smartphone box. If the original tool is lost, it can be replaced with a thin needle, paper clip, or even a sharp-ended earring. The main requirement for the tool is that it must be thin enough to enter the hole, but strong enough not to bend when pressed.
Organize the workspace so that when you open the tray, small parts do not fall on the floor. SIM-The card is very lightweight and can bounce far when pulled out sharply, and it is recommended to perform the procedure over a table with a clean surface or use soft fabric under the hands, which will prevent the loss of the card or scratch on the phone screen.
- 🔍 Find the original paperclip or prepare a thin needle with a blunt end.
- 💡 Provide good lighting to clearly see the marking on the tray.
- 🧼 Wipe your hands and work surface to avoid getting dust inside the case.
Pay attention to the condition of the tool itself. If you use a homemade paper clip, make sure that its edges do not have barbs that can scratch the plastic around the hole.
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If there is no paperclip at hand, you can use a thin sting of a multi-page screwdriver, but act extremely carefully so as not to damage the sensors near the hole.
Slot location and extraction mechanism
Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 smartphone features two separate trays located on different ends of the device, which often causes confusion among beginners. SIM-cards and memory cards are located on the lower end of the case, next to the connector USB Type-C. The second tray, located on the upper end, is intended exclusively for the second tray. SIM-cards and does not support the installation of memory cards.
To open the bottom compartment, flip the smartphone down, you'll see an oblong hole next to the speaker, insert the prepared tool perpendicular to the body into this hole, press confidently, but without undue effort, until you feel a slight click and the spring mechanism pushes the tray out.
⚠️ Warning: Do not try to insert a paper clip into the microphone hole, which may be located nearby. Make sure that you are acting on the tray mechanism, otherwise you can damage the waterproof membrane of the microphone.
After you remove the tray, carefully inspect it. There's usually a small notch or bevel on the metal frame that indicates the correct orientation when you put it back in, and the extraction mechanism in this model is quite tight, so when you return the tray back, you can easily but tightly press until you click it.
SIM installation scheme and memory card
The lower tray of the Redmi Note 8 is a combined one, and has a special design to accommodate two different types of media: one side is designed for a Nano-SIM card, and the other, wider part, for a microSD card. It is important not to confuse the sides and not try to insert the memory card into the SIM slot, as the contacts may not match.
The top tray is simpler: it only has one Nano-SIM card. If you use two numbers from different operators, you need to install the second card here. Pay attention to the shape of the cutout in the corner of the card: it should match perfectly with the outline on the metal tray plate.
| Type of tray | Location. | Support for Nano-SIM | Support for microSD support |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lower (Slot 1) | Bottom of the hull | Yes (1 pc) | Yes (up to 256GB) |
| Upper (Slot 2) | Top of the hull | Yes (1 pc) | No. |
When you lay down the card, make sure it lies exactly in the recess and does not protrude beyond the edges of the tray. If the microSD card is installed correctly, it should not stagger. After installation, carefully move the tray into the case, watching the orientation so that the contacts inside the phone do not damage.
☑️ Correct installation of the map
Nuances of working with two SIM-map
Using two SIM cards in Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 allows you to flexibly configure your tariff plans, separating personal and work calls or using different networks for the Internet. Android system based on MIUI allows you to assign a priority card for calls and separately for mobile traffic, this is especially convenient in roaming or with poor coverage of one of the operators.
After physically installing both cards and turning on the device, the system automatically detects new media. In the notification curtain, you may be prompted to configure the second card. If this does not happen, go to the settings menu, selecting the item SIM-You can rename the cards here, like "Worker" and "Personal" to avoid confusion.
- 📞 Assign the main card for voice calls by default.
- 🌐 Select your preferred network for data transfer (4G/LTE).
- 💬 Set up the shipment. SMS from a specific default number.
It is important to note that when two people are actively using SIM-map-mode 4G, The second card can be switched to mode. 2G/3G When you talk to the first one, depending on your operator's support for VoLTE. Check the settings in the Settings menu. SIM-Cards to activate high-quality voice communication, if available.
⚠️ Warning: When removing the tray from a working phone, the system can warn you of a possible network failure.This is normal, but it is better to still use flight mode or turn off the device before changing cards.
Solution: The phone can't see SIM-map
There are situations when after installation the card is not determined, and in the status bar there is an icon of the crossed-out SIM or the inscription "No" SIM-First, check the cleanliness of the contacts. Rub the golden surface of the map with a soft dry cloth or eraser to remove oxides or greasy spots that may have gotten there during installation.
Also, make sure that the card is not mechanically damaged. If you yourself trimmed an old SIM card to Nano format, the edges could be uneven, which prevents the tight fit in the tray, in which case it is better to contact the operator's salon for a replacement chip.
If the card is physically intact and clean, try a software reset of network settings. Go to Settings → Connections and Sharing → Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile networks and Bluetooth settings. This action will not delete your personal data, but will return network settings to factory values, which often helps restore communication.
What to do if the problem is in the tray?
Safety and care of the tray SIM-map
Regularly replacing SIM cards or memory cards increases wear on the contacts, both on the card itself and inside the smartphone. Try not to change the media more often than necessary. Use cloud services to store data or transfer files through the computer, minimizing physical manipulation of the microSD tray.
Dust and moisture are the main enemies of open ports. Although the Redmi Note 8 has basic spray protection, the open tray hole is vulnerable. If you're on the beach or in a dusty room, try not to hold the phone out with a tray. Sand that gets in can block the extraction mechanism.
When storing a retrieved SIM card, always use a special plastic adapter or holder. Do not put the card with gold contacts on a table or pocket where it may come into contact with metal objects such as keys or coins. This can lead to static charge or scratches.
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Regular cleaning of contacts and careful handling of the tray prolong the life of the connector and provide a stable communication signal.