Connecting Xiaomi Mi TV Stick to the computer: a complete guide to error solutions

Turn a regular computer into a multimedia center with Xiaomi Mi TV Stick is a simpler task than it sounds. This compact Android-based TV set-top box TV It is capable of broadcasting content in resolution before 4K HDR, But it's not just limited to TVs, but it's also a PC connection that gives you access to the Google Play Store, streaming services, and even games through emulators.

However, many users face problems: the console is not defined as a separate monitor, image artifacts arise or sound is transmitted only through a single monitor. HDMI. In this article, we will analyze all working ways of connecting - from the classical HDMI before wireless solutions, and also tell you how to configure Mi TV Stick for maximum performance on the computer.

We'll focus on common bugs: why the console doesn't turn on when you connect to a PC, how to fix the screen resolution problem, and what to do if Windows can't see the device. USB-C Supports charging and data transfer at the same time – information that is not in the official documentation of Xiaomi.

If you are planning to use the Mi TV Stick for presentations, streaming or even as a second screen for the desktop – this guide will help you avoid typical mistakes and save time.

1. Preparation for connection: what will be needed

Before you start connecting, make sure you have everything you need. - Xiaomi Mi TV Stick (any model from the first version to the Mi) TV Stick 4K) requires a minimum set of accessories, but some nuances depend on the way you connect to the PC.

Basic kit:

• 📺 Xiaomi Mi TV Stick with a branded power cable (5V/1A or 5V/2A model-wise).
• 🖥️ Computer with free port HDMI (for direct connection) or USB-C/Thunderbolt (adapter-connection).
• 🔌 power supply: USB-Computer port or network adapter (recommended for stable operation).

Additional accessories (if necessary):

• 🔄 HDMI-signal extension or repeater – if the port on the PC is located in an uncomfortable place.
• ⚡ USB-C → HDMI Adapter (with DisplayPort Alt Mode support) - for laptops without HDMI.
• 📶 Wi-Fi router 5 GHz – for wireless connection via Miracast protocol.

It is important to check the Android version. TV On the console: go to Settings → About the prefix → Software version: To work properly with the PC, it is recommended to update the firmware to the latest version. If the console has not been used for a long time, update it through Settings. → System system → Update of the PO.

2. Method 1: Direct connection through HDMI

The most reliable and simple method is to connect Mi TV Stick to HDMI-In this case, the console will act as an external monitor and the PC as a signal source. HDMI-The computer port outputs the signal, not receives it.

What needs to be done:

1. Buy it. HDMI-Capture card with HDMI-in support. Popular models: Elgato HD60 S+ or Magewell USB Capture HDMI.
2. Connect Mi. TV Stick to HDMI-in capture port, and capture itself to USB-port.
3. Install drivers for capture card (usually come with or downloaded from the manufacturer’s website).
4. Run a program to capture video (for example, OBS studio VLC) Select the capture card as the source.

If you do not need a screen capture, but only the output of the image from the console to the PC monitor, you can use it. HDMI-A back-loop splitter, for example, OREI HDA-935 Allows you to simultaneously display a signal to the TV and transmit it to the computer.

Check whether there is a free HDMI-port

Buy HDMI-snatch or splitter with loop-out

Connect Mi. TV Stick to the power supply (at least) 1A)

Install drivers for capture card (if required)

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Common error: the console does not turn on when connecting to USB-This is due to a lack of power supply. Always use the original power supply or USB-feed-in.

⚠️ Note: Some capture cards do not support HDCP (Content protection: if you plan to watch Netflix or Disney+ via TV Stick, choose devices with support HDCP 2.2, for example, Blackmagic Design Intensity Shuttle.

3. Method 2: Connecting through USB-C (laptop-only)

Modern laptops are often deprived of HDMI-port, but equipped USB-C/Thunderbolt DisplayPort Alt Mode, which allows you to connect external displays, including Mi. TV Stick, via adapter, but there are technical limitations.

Step-by-step:

1. Buy an adapter. USB-C → HDMI with input support (e.g, WAVLINK USB-C to HDMI Capture Card: Normal image display adapters won't work!
2. Connect Mi. TV Stick to HDMI-port of the adapter and the adapter itself to USB-C port.
3. Install drivers (if required) and run a video capture program (such as AmarecTV or PotPlayer).
4. In the program settings, select the adapter as the signal source.

Important point: majority USB-C Adapters do not support power for Mi TV Stick. So you have to connect the console to a separate power source (e.g., to a separate power supply). USB-port of the laptop OTG-cable).

Alternative: If your laptop supports Thunderbolt 3/4, You can use a docking station with HDMI-in (for example, CalDigit). TS4). This solution is more expensive, but provides a stable signal and power supply.

Technical limitations:

• ⚠️ Maximum supported permit — 1080p@60Hz (even if the console supports 4K).
• ⚠️ Signal delay (latency) can be 100-200 MS - not suitable for games.

Method 3: Wireless Wi-Fi Connection (Miracast)

If wires are not your option, you can connect Mi TV Stick to your computer using Miracast wireless technology, which allows you to stream your PC screen to the console without any additional cables. TV Stick supports Miracast signal reception (usually only output).

How to set up Miracast on Windows:

1. Make sure your computer supports Miracast. To do this, type in the command line: dxdiag and check the Miracast line: Available.
2. On Mi. TV Stick go to Settings → Devices → Screen. → Wireless display and enable the option.
3. On PC, press Win. + K, select your console from the list and connect.

If Mi TV Stick doesn’t appear in the list of devices, try the following steps:

• 🔄 Restart the console and computer.
• 📶 Connect both devices to the same Wi-Fi network (preferably 5 GHz).
• 🔧 Update your wireless adapter driver on your PC (via Device Manager).

Miracast's limitations:

• 🎮 Video delay can reach 150-300 MS is not suitable for dynamic games.
• 📺 Maximum authorization — 1080p@30Hz (even if the console supports 4K).
• 🔊 Sound is only transmitted in Stereo format (without Dolby Digital support).

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If Miracast doesn't work, try using the ApowerMirror or LetsView app for wireless broadcasting, which supports more devices and has lower latency than standard Miracast.

5. Adjust the display and sound after connection

After successful connection to Mi TV You need to adjust the screen and sound settings to the computer's Stick (HDMI, USB-C Wi-Fi settings may be different.

Configure the resolution and frequency of the update:

• For wired connection (via capture card): in the capture program (e.g, OBS) Select the resolution corresponding to the capabilities of the console (1920×1080@60Hz or 3840×2160@30Hz for 4K-model).
• For Miracast: Go to Options on Windows → System system → Screen. → Screen resolution and select the most supported.

Sound setting:

If the sound is absent or distorted:

• 🔊 Check what is in the Mi settings TV Stick selected the correct output: Settings → Sound. → Exit HDMI → Auto (PCM).
• 🔧 Update your audio driver on PC (especially if you use a capture card).
• 🎧 Try connecting your headphones to the console via Bluetooth – this will help diagnose the problem.

⚠️ Note: When connecting through USB-C Adapters for some Mi models TV Stick (e.g., first version) can only produce sound in format PCM For multi-channel sound (5.1) required HDMI-connection.

6. Solving common problems

Even with the right connection, there can be errors, and let's look at the most common ones and how to fix them.

Problem 1: The console does not turn on when connecting to the PC

• 🔌 Check the power: Mi TV Stick requires at least one 1A. USB-The computer port may not provide enough power – use the original power supply.
• 🔄 Reboot the console by holding the button on the case for 10 seconds.
• 🛠️ Update the console firmware through Settings → System system → Update of the PO.

Problem 2: No images or artifacts

• 🔍 Check the cable. HDMI: Use a certified high speed cable HDMI (particularly 4K).
• 📺 Change the permission on the console: Settings → Display and sound → Screen resolution → 1080p 60Hz.
• 🔧 Turn it off. HDR In the settings of the console, if your monitor does not support it.

Issue 3: Sound delay/video (latency)

• 🎮 For games: use a wired connection (HDMI Capture card – Miracast protocols have a delay of 150+ miss.
• 📶 For Miracast: Reduce resolution to 720p Or use a router with Wi-Fi 6 support.
• ⚡ Close background programs on a PC that consume processor resources (especially important for the computer). USB-C adapter).

Problem 4: The computer does not see the console as a device

• 🔌 For capture card: check if drivers are installed (download from the manufacturer's website).
• 🔄 Reconnect the device to another USB-port (preferably) USB 3.0).
• 🛠️ In Device Manager, check if there is an exclamation point next to the capture card.

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If the console is not defined as an external monitor, remember: standard HDMI-The PC port is designed to output, not input. HDMI-Capture or adapter with HDMI-in support.

7. Additional Features: How to Use Mi TV Stick with PC

Mi connection TV Stick to the computer opens up new use cases. Here are some ideas for how to make the most of the console:

1. Second screen for the desktop

• 🖥️ Use the Mi. TV Stick as an additional monitor for expanding the desktop (via capture card).
• 📊 Convenient for multitasking: on the main screen you work, on the second – streaming or monitoring.

2. Multimedia centre

• 🎬 Connect the console to the projector and stream movies from the PC via Plex or Kodi.
• 🎵 Use Spotify or YouTube Music on the console as a standalone audio device.

3. Gaming streaming

• 🎮 Connect the gamepad to the console over Bluetooth and stream games from the PC via Steam Link or Moonlight.
• 🕹️ For cloud gaming, use Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW straight on TV Stick.

Presentations and webinars

• 📊 Connect the console to the conference room and broadcast the PC screen via Miracast or capture card.
• 🎤 Use Google Meet or Zoom on the video conferencing console (requires a webcam with a video conferencing set-top box) USB-OTG adapter).

5.Development of Android applications

• 📱 Connect Mi. TV Stick to Android Studio via ADB test TV-applications.
• 🛠️ Activate Developer Mode: Settings → About the prefix → Assembly number (click 7 times).

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To reduce the load on the PC when streaming through Mi TV Stick, use hardware video coding (NVENC for NVIDIA or AMF for AMD) customized OBS or.

FAQ: Frequent questions about connecting Mi TV Stick to PC