What? SIM-The card is needed for Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus

Owners of the Chinese company's popular smartphones often face the question of the compatibility of network modules when you first buy or change carrier. 5 Plus, which came out at the beginning 2018 It was a hit for the mid-range segment due to its excellent price-performance ratio, but despite the mass of the device, not all users immediately understand what micro-chip format is required for proper operation in networks. 4G/LTE.

The main confusion arises from the fact that in recent years the standards of physical media have changed several times, and the design of slots in Xiaomi smartphones has its own features. Unlike older push-button phones, where you could insert a card of any size, modern gadgets require precise compliance with dimensions. SIM-The card is necessary for Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus, how to properly remove the tray and configure the work of two numbers at the same time.

Miscalculating or sloppyly installing a chip can cause the phone to stop seeing the network or to run unsteady. It's important to understand that the device supports modern communication standards, but the physical size of the plate must strictly match the manufacturer's specification. We'll look at everything from the type of plastic to setting the Internet's priority so you can avoid common mistakes.

SIM-card size standard in Redmi 5 Plus

Xiaomi Redmi 5 Plus (also known by the code name Vince) comes with a hybrid slot that requires the use of Nano-SIM cards.This is the smallest form factor currently in existence, measuring only 12.3 by 8.8 millimeters. Using larger cards such as Mini-SIM or Micro-SIM, without special cropping or adapters, is impossible and can lead to mechanical damage to the phone’s contact group.

Many users mistakenly believe that if the tray is removed with a paper clip, any plastic will do. In fact, there are special notches inside the slot that will physically prevent you from inserting a large plate correctly. If you move from an old device that used the Micro-SIM format, you should definitely contact your operator's communication salon for a free replacement of the chip with a Nano format or carefully trim it according to the template, although the latter option carries risks.

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Always ask the operator for a new one. SIM-Nano card, not cut the old one with scissors – this ensures stable contact and no problems with the security chip.

It is important to note that the standard 4G LTE In this model, it depends not only on the software settings, but also on the quality of the plastic card itself. SIM-cards issued 5-7 And in the past, they may not work properly on fourth-generation networks, even if they're physically fit in size. 5 Plus is recommended to immediately update the "Simka" to the latest version that supports USIM.

Slot design and installation of two cards

One of the key features of the Redmi 5 Plus is the availability of a hybrid slot for memory cards, which means that the user can choose from two use cases: either install two different devices. SIM-Nano cards or one of them SIM-microSD cards and memory cards: The tray is designed so that the cards are placed on different levels or sides of the plastic frame, which requires care when assembling.

To remove the tray, you need to use a special metal clip that comes with the kit, or a thin sting that can be found on the stationery clip. The extraction hole is located on the lower end of the device, to the left of the Micro-USB charging connector. Press strictly perpendicular to the case, without distortion, so as not to damage the internal mechanism of the retainer.

β˜‘οΈ Proper installation SIM-map

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When installing two cards, it is important to follow the numbering specified on the tray itself or in the instructions. Slot 1 is usually intended for the main card through which the default Internet access will be performed, although this can be changed softwarefully. Slot 2 is optional and in a hybrid scheme can be occupied by a memory card up to 128 GB. If you use two SIM cards, the function of expanding memory via microSD becomes unavailable.

⚠️ Warning: Never try to insert a microSD card into the compartment. SIM-Contacts have different voltages, and such an error can cause the power controller or the communication module itself to burn.

Network support 4G two SIM-mapping

Technical characteristics of the Snapdragon processor 625, redmi-mounted 5 Plus, it allows the device to work on fourth-generation networks on both SIM cards, but with an important limitation. 4G/LTE Only one card is available, while the other will work in modes. 2G or 3G For voice calls and text messages, when an incoming call arrives on the second SIM card, the first card can temporarily switch to mode. 2G, This is the standard behavior for most smartphones in this class.

To work properly, you need to set your priorities in the device menu. The MIUI system on board provides flexible traffic management tools, so you can assign one card to make calls and the other card to the Internet, or use both for voice communication, switching between them manually before dialing.

πŸ“Š How many? SIM-You are using the cards in Redmi 5 Plus?
One (personal only)
One (working only)
Two (personal and work)
Two (two personal)
I do not use SIM (Wi-Fi only)

Also, consider the frequency ranges supported by a particular smartphone version (Global, China or Indian). The global version of Redmi 5 Plus supports the main European and Russian LTE bands: B3, B7, B20. If you are using the Chinese version of the device, make sure that your carrier operates at the frequencies that the phone "sees", otherwise the 4G indicator may not catch fire, even with the correct setting.

Step-by-step instructions for network setting

After the physical installation of the cards, you need to make the correct software configuration. MIUI It's based on Android, but it has its own shell, where menu items may be different from stock Android. To get started, go to the main menu and select Settings, then find Two. SIM-maps and mobile networks (or similar depending on the firmware version).

In the menu that opens, you'll see a list of installed cards, you'll need to activate both SIM cards if they don't turn on automatically, then you'll need to configure data settings, select a card that has unlimited or high traffic, and set the Internet switch to the "On" position opposite it.

Path to settings:


Settings β†’ Two SIM-maps and mobile networks β†’ Network Selection 4G β†’ Select SIM-map

Also available in this section is the Default Calls feature, which allows you to select Always Ask if you want to control which card the call is made from, or assign a primary SIM card for all outgoing calls, and make sure that data roaming is activated if you plan to use your smartphone abroad, although this is not required for domestic use.

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Properly configuring the Internet priority in the Mobile Networks menu is critical to save battery life and prevent debiting funds from the main SIM card.

Table of technical characteristics of the communication module

To understand your device’s capabilities, we’ll look at the network module’s technical specifications to help you understand why coverage may be weaker in some areas, or why 4G doesn’t work for a particular carrier.

ParameterMeaning/DescriptionNote
Type SIMNano-SIMOnly this format.
Number of slots2 (hybrid)Either 2 SIM or SIM + SD
Communication standardsGSM / CDMA / HSPA / LTESupport for all generations
LTE speedup to 150 Mbps (Cat. 4)Depends on the operator.
LTE bands (RU/EU)B1, B3, B5, B7, B8, B20, B38, B40Important for 4G

As you can see from the table, the device has a fairly wide range of supported frequencies. However, the presence of the B20 band (800 MHz) is critical for users living in rural areas or on the outskirts of cities, since this frequency provides the best signal penetration through the walls of buildings.

Typical problems and their solution

Despite the reliability of the Redmi 5 Plus, users sometimes face a situation where the phone can not see. SIM-The most common cause is oxidation of the contacts or a loose landing of the tray, try to remove the cards, wipe the chip with a soft dry cloth and insert it back, making sure that the tray snaps to the end.

What to do if the network is lost after the update?
If the network is gone after a firmware update, try resetting your network settings. Go to Settings β†’ Advanced Settings β†’ Restore and Reset β†’ Reset your Wi-Fi, mobile internet and Bluetooth settings. This will not delete your personal data.

Another common problem is the wrong type of network, if the settings are set to "Only" 4G", If you have a patched area, the phone may lose all connection. LTE, This will allow the device to automatically switch to 3G or 2G When the signal is deteriorating, maintaining the ability to receive calls.

⚠️ Warning: If the phone is writing "No Service" or "Only Emergency Calls" on both SIM cards at the same time and the reboot is not helping, it may be that the antenna plume or the radio module itself is damaged.

It’s also worth checking if the phone is locked by the operator. If you bought the device from hand, make sure it’s not tied to a specific cellular operator (the locked version), unlocking such devices is difficult and can lead to unstable operation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use three SIM cards in Redmi 5 Plus?
Physically, there's only one hybrid tray in the device, so you can't use three active SIM cards at the same time. SIM-card SIM and one microSD card.
Why is 4G not working on the second SIM card?
The Redmi 5 Plus, like many smartphones of the time, features a Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) scheme, meaning that the communications module can support high-speed 4G internet on only one active card, while the second card will run on standby, receiving calls and SMS over 2G/3G networks.
Do I need to turn off my phone to replace the SIM?
Although Redmi 5 Plus theoretically supports Hot-Swap, it is strongly recommended that you completely shut down the device before removing or installing the tray, which will prevent possible software failures in determining the new card and protect contacts from voltage surges.
What is the maximum memory card capacity of the phone?
Support for microSD cards up to 128 GB is officially announced, however, in practice, many users successfully use cards with a volume of 256 GB and even more if they are formatted into the exFAT file system.