Installing a carrier card is the first and most important step after buying a new smartphone. Owners of the Xiaomi 5 Plus model (also known as the Redmi Note 5 Pro in the global market) often face nuances that distinguish this process from the usual actions with other devices.
Installing the chip incorrectly can cause the device to fail to see the network or damage the tray contacts. In this article, we will discuss in detail the physical process of tray extraction, correct card positioning and initial software configuration of the communication module.
Before you start, make sure your hands are dry and clean. Any moisture or static electricity can cause the contacts to oxidize or short-circuit inside the case. It's also worth preparing a bright light source to better see the markings on the tray.
Tool preparation and completeness check
To start the procedure, you'll need a minimal set of tools, which is usually bundled with the device. If the original paper clip is lost, you can use a thin needle, but you need to be extremely careful, and the main goal is not to damage the ejector mechanism inside the case.
Visually inspect. SIM-Even a microscopic bend of metal can cause the tray to jam inside the smartphone. Make sure that the operator card is in the Nano-SIM format, as this is the standard used in the Xiaomi 5 Plus.
⚠️ Warning: Never attempt to insert the tray with the backside or force.The incorrect input protection mechanism can block access to the slot permanently.
It is important to distinguish between card types, since a hybrid slot can have either two SIM cards or one card and a memory card, and if you plan to use two numbers, you won’t need a microSD card, and the second communication module will take up space.
Removing the tray and determining the type of slot
Find a small circular hole on the bottom end of the case next to the elongated tray, insert the tool into the hole perpendicular to the body and press until you click, the tray should extend a few millimeters, after which it can be removed with your fingers.
The Xiaomi 5 Plus uses a combined slot, which means that the second compartment can either receive a second SIM or a memory card. The metal frame of the tray always has a schematic engraving showing which compartment is responsible for what.
- 🔍 Find a rounded angle on the plastic-based card - it should match the same ledge in the tray.
- 📏 Make sure the gold contacts look downwards to the motherboard.
- 🚫 Do not allow the map to be distorted, it should lie in the recess perfectly exactly.
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If the tray is not pushed when pressed, try turning the tool counterclockwise slightly, but do not make excessive efforts.
Some users try to insert the card without removing the tray, which is strictly forbidden by the design of the smartphone.The Xiaomi 5 Plus mechanism requires full extraction for the safe installation of the module.
Proper orientation of Nano-SIM card
The key is the position of the chip. The golden contacts should be downward, and the rounded corner of the map is usually in the upper left corner (when you look at the tray from the contacts side), but always focus on the engraving on the tray itself.
Carefully place the card in the designated place. It should fit tightly, without backlashes. If the card dangles, you may be using an adapter or an old-format card that is cropped incorrectly. The Xiaomi 5 Plus only uses the Nano-SIM format.
⚠️ Note: Use of adapters (adapters) with conventional SIM-These cards are often stuck inside the smartphone, and it's impossible to remove them without disassembling the case.
If you use two SIM cards, make sure both are active and free of mechanical damage.The second card is installed in the adjacent compartment on a similar principle, but often has its own engraved "SIM 2".
☑️ Pre-installing check
Installation of the tray back into the body
Once the map is securely fixed in the tray, you need to return the design back to the smartphone, and it's important to observe the orientation of the tray itself. The end of the tray often has a small bevel or marking indicating which side it is inserted.
Put the tray in smoothly, without jerking. If you feel resistance, don't push. Take out the tray, turn it over and try it again. A properly installed tray enters the body until the characteristic click or until the gap with the frame disappears completely.
Once installed, the device will automatically detect a new SIM card, the screen of the smartphone should (light up), and at the top of the status bar will appear signal level indicators. If this does not happen, check if the tray is fully inserted.
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The tray must enter the enclosure without effort, and if you need force, you change orientation incorrectly.
Do not leave the tray partially open even for a short time, as this violates the tightness of the case (although there is no full moisture protection in this model, dust should not get) and can damage the contacts when carried in the pocket.
Network setting and choice of mode of operation
After the physical installation, you need to configure the software part. Go to the Settings menu and select the item SIM-maps and mobile networks. Both slots are displayed here if the cards are installed.
In this section, you can assign which SIM card will be used for mobile internet and which for default voice calls, and network mode is configured here: it is recommended to choose Preferably 4G or LTE for maximum speed.
| Parameter | Recommended value | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type of network | 4G is preferred | Selection of communication standard | Internet speed |
| Internet | SIM 1 (or 2) | Data map | Work of the applications |
| Calls. | Always ask | Selecting a SIM when calling | Usability |
| Roaming | Off. | Work abroad | Protection against unnecessary spending |
If you only use one SIM card but have set it to the second slot, the system may suggest switching settings.In Xiaomi 5 Plus, both slots are equivalent and support 4G, but only one module can be active at high speeds at a time.
Solution: the phone does not see the SIM card
Sometimes, after installation, the user is confronted with a message "No SIM card" or "Only emergency calls." The first thing you try to reboot the device. Software failure of the communication module is a common occurrence after the tray is removed.
If the reboot didn't work, remove the tray and wipe the SIM card contacts with soft dry material (such as microfiber for screens), finger fat or oxidation may prevent contact, and check if the tray itself is contaminated inside.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use alcohol wipes or wet fabrics to clean SIM contacts.The liquid can leak under the plastic base and damage the chip.
In rare cases, the problem lies in the IMEI settings. Enter the command *#06# in the dial menu. If zeros or dashing are displayed instead of the number, the modem firmware may have gone off and you need to flash the device in the service center.