How many? SIM-Maps supported by Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus: full analysis

Modern smartphones often dictate terms of use, forcing users to choose between a second SIM card and a memory card. Owners of budget and mid-budget devices from Xiaomi are well familiar with this dilemma. The Redmi 5 Plus model, released in early 2018, was a real hit thanks to a successful combination of characteristics and price, but questions about the configuration of slots are still relevant.

Many users are wondering: shaomi redmi 5 plus how many SIM cards officially supports and can you use two numbers and flash memory at the same time? The answer to this question requires a detailed consideration of the design of the tray and the software limitations of the MIUI shell. Unlike flagship lines, it uses a specific layout, which is important to know before buying or replacing equipment.

In this article, we will discuss in detail the technical details of the device, how to properly install communication modules and set priorities for calls and mobile Internet, understanding these features will help to avoid physical damage to the tray and conflicts in the network.

Technical characteristics of Redmi 5 Plus slots

Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus (also known as Redmi Note 5 globally in some regions) features a hybrid card slot, which means that the device physically has space for two communication modules, but one of the places can be occupied by a microSD memory card.

The device supports standard Nano-SIM cards. Using old-format cards or self-cut plastics without the appropriate frame can lead to a stuck mechanism inside the case. Support for fourth-generation 4G LTE networks is fully implemented, but with the limitations characteristic of a hybrid scheme.

⚠️ Warning: Do not try to insert two memory cards or a memory card into the slot along with two SIM cards at the same time.The mechanism of the Redmi 5 Plus smartphone does not provide such a configuration, and the force can break the contacts of the reader.

Software shell MIUI You can set up two active numbers flexibly, and you can assign one of the SIM cards to the primary for voice calls, and use the second card exclusively for data transfer or SMS-Switching between them is automatic depending on the settings set by the user in the device menu.

Tray design and installation options

The card tray in Redmi 5 Plus is elongated and located on the lower end of the case, to the right of the USB Type-C connector (in some Micro-USB revisions, but more often already Type-C for this model). To extract the platform, a special metal clip, coming in the kit, or a thin needle. Pressing must be done strictly perpendicular to the small diameter hole.

There are two main slot use scenarios that determine how many SIM cards will be available at a given time:

  • πŸ“± Option A (Two SIM cards): Nano-SIM is installed in the first compartment (usually marked with the number 1), the second compartment (marked with the number 2) is installed.
  • πŸ’Ύ Option B (One SIM card) + Flash drive: Nano-SIM is installed in the first compartment, and a microSD memory card is inserted in the second compartment instead of the second SIM card. This allows you to expand the internal storage, but deprives the user of the possibility of a second number.

It is important to note that both SIM card slots support 4G networks, but only one can work in high-speed Internet at the same time. The second card in standby mode will work on 2G or 3G networks. This is the standard restriction for most devices in this price segment of the period of release.

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Use the original paperclip out of the box to retrieve the tray.The paperclips can be too thick and damage the extraction sensor mechanism, leading to constant notifications of missing SIM even without the tray.

Installation instructions SIM-map

The process of installing communication modules requires care, as improper orientation of the chip can lead to a lack of signal or, in the worst case, a short circuit of contacts. Before starting the procedure, it is recommended to completely turn off the smartphone, although modern Xiaomi devices support hot-swap, it is better to be safe to avoid software failures of network definition.

To perform the installation, follow the algorithm:

β˜‘οΈ Installation verification SIM

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  1. Find a hole to extract the tray on the lower end of the body.
  2. Press the paperclip to a characteristic click and remove the platform.
  3. Put the cards in the appropriate cutouts. Pay attention to the bevelled corner of the card, which should match the shape of the cutout in the tray.
  4. Carefully insert the tray back into the case to the point. Don't put too much effort into it.
  5. Turn on the device and wait for the network indicators to appear.

After booting the Android operating system with a shell MIUI, The device will automatically detect new modules if the SIM card has not been used in the phone before or is protected. PIN-The standard codes are often listed on the plastic card you received in the communications salon.

Setup of two SIM cards in MIUI

After the two communication modules are physically installed, you need to properly configure their software work. MIUI It offers a user-friendly interface for managing dual SIM card. To access settings, go to the Settings menu. β†’ SIM-Maps and mobile networks. This shows both maps, which show the operator and the type of network.

In this section, the following key settings are available to the user:

  • πŸ“ž Calls: You can choose which SIM card will be used by default for outbound calls, or set up Always Ask mode so that the phone requests a number selection before each set.
  • 🌐 Mobile Internet: Select a priority card for data transfer.
  • πŸ’¬ SMS: Similar to calls, a SIM card is set by default to send messages.

Also available on this menu is the "Take calls to second SIM" feature, which allows you to keep calls to the second number from being missed even if you are talking on the first one (provided the operator supports the Call Waiting function), which can consume additional battery power.

πŸ“Š How do you use two SIM cards?
One for work, one for personal.
One for phone calls, the other for the internet
Both for calls, internet via Wi-Fi
I'm always changing seats in the tray.

Compatibility and frequency table

Understanding the frequencies supported is important for those who plan to use the Redmi 5 Plus with operators from different regions or abroad.

Below is a summary table of supported technologies and maps:

ParameterSlot 1Slot 2Memory slot
Type of cardNano-SIMNano-SIM / microSDmicroSD (up to 128 GB)
4G networksSupportSupportNot applicable.
Mode of workActive.Waiting/ActiveActive.
Hot replacement.Yes.Yes.Yes.

It’s worth noting that when you install a memory card in a second slot, the second phone number becomes unavailable.This is the classic Hybrid Slot scheme, which was a compromise between body thickness and functionality in 2017-2018.

Possible problems and solutions

Despite the reliability of the device, users may encounter typical problems when using two SIM cards, most often associated with software failures of network registration or physical contamination of contacts.

Consider the main symptoms and methods of their elimination:

  • ❌ Β«No network" on one of the cards: "Check if the tray is inserted correctly. Try swapping the SIM cards in places. If the problem moved with the card - it's the SIM card of the operator, you need to contact the salon to replace the switch.
  • πŸ“Ά Continuous network search: This can occur when poor coverage or communication standards conflict. Try manually selecting the operator in the settings β†’ SIM-map β†’ Selecting a network by disabling automatic mode.
  • πŸ”‹ Fast battery discharge: Two active SIM cards, especially in the area of uncertain reception, significantly increase power consumption. In such situations, it is advisable to temporarily turn off the second SIM card programmatically through the notification curtain or settings.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone stops seeing both SIM cards after falling or getting moisture, don't try drying it with a hair dryer. contact the service center, as oxidation of the tray contacts requires professional ultrasound cleaning.

Secret code for checking IMEI
For quick check of registration of SIM cards and viewing IMEI codes, dial in the phone command *#06#. Check the displayed numbers with those on the box and on the SIM cards themselves (if they are new).

Frequent User Questions (FAQ)

In conclusion, we will answer the most popular questions that arise from owners of Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus regarding working with SIM cards.

Can you insert two SIM cards and a memory card at the same time in Redmi 5 Plus?
No, the tray design in Redmi 5 Plus is hybrid. You can use either two SIM cards or one SIM card along with a microSD card. The simultaneous operation of three modules is technically impossible without the use of external adapters that are not supported by this model.
Why is the second SIM card not catching 4G?
In most cases, the second SIM card is in operation. 2G/3G, When the first card is active, it's a modem and operator settings limitation, so that the second card can be used to transmit data. 4G, You need to switch the mobile Internet to it in the settings Settings β†’ SIM-maps and mobile networks.
What size SIM card is needed for Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus?
This model requires a Nano-SIM card, the smallest of the common formats, and Micro-SIM or Standard-SIM cards are not suitable without special cropping, which is better done in the communication cabin, so as not to damage the chip.
Does the phone support VoLTE?
Yes, Redmi 5 Plus supports VoLTE (Voice over LTE) technology, but it depends on your operator and region, and you can check for support in the SIM card settings menu, where the corresponding switch should be installed if the operator has added a profile of the device to its database.
What to do if your phone is writing Β«SIM-map not installedΒ»?
Try to wipe the SIM card contacts with a soft dry cloth. Make sure the card sits tight in the tray and doesn't hang around. If the problem persists after rebooting and checking on another device, the SIM card reader in the smartphone itself may have failed.

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Proper Nano-SIM installation and proper prioritization in MIUI allow you to maximize the use of the capabilities of two SIM cards in Redmi 5 Plus, providing stable communication and convenient cost control.