The modern periphery for computers and laptops has long gone beyond simple wired devices. Xiaomi Mi Portable Mouse has become one of the leaders in the segment of budget but high-quality wireless manipulators. Many users buy this model because of its compactness, stylish design and dual mode of operation. However, as often happens with equipment from China, the initial setup process can cause questions for the untrained person.
The main thing about this mouse is that it's versatile, and it doesn't just support standard connectivity. USB-It's a receiver, but it's also a direct Bluetooth 4.0 connection, which saves you precious money. USB-port on an ultrabook or tablet. In this article, we will discuss in detail how to activate the desired mode, pair with different operating systems, and what to do if the device is not detected by the computer.
Now, you don't have to think that it's going to take a long time to set up. The whole process, from retrieving the battery to moving the cursor for the first time, takes literally a couple of minutes. But there are some nuances that are important to keep in mind for a stable operation, like switching modes correctly or choosing a port for a receiver can make a big difference in the responsiveness of the cursor.
Design features and operating modes
Before you start pairing, you need to physically prepare the device to work. The case Xiaomi Mi Portable Mouse is made of durable plastic with a pleasant matte coating that is resistant to scratches. Inside the battery compartment is an important mode switch, which determines the method of communication with the computer.
Unlike some of the competitors, there's no separate power button, power is provided immediately after the element is installed, and on the bottom panel is a slider marked with icons. BT and 2.4G. He's the one who's in charge of choosing the protocol for the data transfer. 2.4G, The mouse will look USB-adapter and if in position BT โ will become visible to Bluetooth modules.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Do not leave the switch in the intermediate position.This can lead to unstable device operation or rapid battery discharge, as modules can be in search mode at the same time.
One AA element is used to power the device. The battery is often supplied, but it can only be charged for testing; for long-term operation, it is better to immediately purchase a high-quality alkaline battery from a well-known manufacturer, which will provide a battery life of up to 9 months as stated by the manufacturer.
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Use only high-quality batteries. Cheap analogues can leak in a few months, which will lead to oxidation of contacts inside the housing and break the mouse.
It is important to note that the Bluetooth module in this model works on frequency. 4.0. This means it is compatible with most modern laptops and tablets released in recent years. 7-8 But on very old computers without built-in Bluetooth, you'll have to use it. USB-adapter.
Preparation for pairing: step-by-step algorithm
The first stage of setting up requires careful attention, because this is where users often make mistakes. You need to follow the sequence of actions clearly so that the computer can detect the new device.
- ๐ Remove protective insulation tape from the battery compartment or install a new battery while respecting polarity.
- ๐ฑ๏ธ Turn the mouse over and find the mode switch on the bottom panel.
- ๐ถ Move the slider to position BT (Bluetooth).
- ๐ก Pay attention to the indicator: it should start flashing blue, signaling search mode.
If the indicator does not light up, check the battery installation correctly. Contacts should be tightly attached to the ends of the battery. In some cases, you may need to slightly twist the battery around your axis to clear the possible oxide layer from the contacts.
โ๏ธ Testing the mouse's readiness
Now that the manipulator is ready to go, you need to move on to the setup of the computer or laptop itself. The operating system should be in the mode of detecting new devices. In Windows, this is the taskbar, and in macOS, the corresponding menu in the system settings.
Connecting to Windows 10 and 11
Windows operating systems have built-in drivers for most input devices. Xiaomi Mi Portable Mouse is no exception. You don't need to download additional software from the manufacturer's website to get started.
The way you do things in Windows 10 or 11 is this: you first need to open the system settings, and you can do this through the Start menu by selecting the gear icon, or just by pressing the Win + I key combination. Then you go to Devices (in Windows 11, it's Bluetooth and Devices).
Make sure the Bluetooth slider is activated. If the module is off, turn it on. Then click "Add Bluetooth or other device." In the window that opens, select the first item, "Bluetooth," and the system will start looking for available devices within range.
The list of devices found should appear the name Xiaomi Mouse or Mi Portable Mouse. Click on it. The pairing process will take a few seconds. Once the device is successfully connected, the system will report that the device is ready for use, and the indicator on the mouse will stop flashing, lighting up flat or going out.
Setup in macOS and Linux
Apple computer owners can also use this periphery without any problems. The macOS ecosystem is famous for its stability with Bluetooth devices. The connection process here is even more intuitive and takes less time.
To connect, open System Settings and go to Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is on. The Xiaomi Mi Mouse should appear in the Devices list. Press Connect next to the name. Once pairing is confirmed, the cursor will become manageable.
Linux users (Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora) can also count on support. In most modern distributions, Bluetooth is managed via a bluetoothctl utility or graphical configuration interface. HID-inputer.
โ ๏ธ Note: Some Linux distributions may require the installation of bluez and bluez-tools if the Bluetooth module does not work properly out of the box.
The basic functions of the left, right click and wheel will work properly.
Work through USB-receiver
If Bluetooth for some reason is not suitable (for example, on a stationary PC there is no module or it is busy), you can use a complete set of devices. USB-This method provides a more stable connection and less latency, which is critical for some tasks.
USB-The adapter is stored in a special compartment on the bottom of the mouse, next to the battery compartment, and it needs to be removed and inserted into the free. USB-The switch on the housing must be moved to the position 2.4G.
The system automatically recognizes the device as a standard mouse, and the drivers will be installed automatically, which is especially relevant if you're working in an environment with a lot of radio interference, where the Bluetooth connection can be unstable.
Why? USB-receiver better than Bluetooth?
It's worth noting that the receiver is not universal for all mice, but it's sewn up specifically for your copy of the Xiaomi Mi Portable Mouse in the factory. If you lose the receiver, another one from the same mouse won't work, you'll need to solder the chip or buy a new mouse.
Compatibility table and characteristics
For the convenience of users, we have created a summary table that will help you quickly navigate the connectivity and specifications of the device, which will help you to understand whether the mouse is suitable for your use case.
| Parameter | Meaning/Description |
|---|---|
| Type of connection | Bluetooth 4.0 / USB 2.4 GHz |
| Sensor resolution | 1200 DPI (optical) |
| Nutrition | 1 x AA battery |
| Compatibility | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Autonomy | Up to 9 months (Bluetooth) |
As you can see from the table, the device has basic but sufficient characteristics for office work, web surfing and study, and the high-resolution sensor is not stated here, since the mouse is focused on mobility, not professional design or eSports.
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Xiaomi Mi Portable Mouse is a versatile device that, thanks to its dual connectivity mode, is suitable for almost any modern technology, from old PCs to the latest MacBooks.
Problem Solving and Troubleshooting
Even with the right connection, there can be situations where the mouse is not working properly, the cursor can move in jerks, the device can spontaneously shut down or not be detected at all by the system, and let's look at the main causes and ways to eliminate them.
If the cursor is moving intermittently, first check the battery power. A sitting power cell is the most common cause of unstable wireless devices. USB-receiver (if the mode is used) 2.4G) closer to the mouse, using USB-extension, since the metal body of the system unit can shield the signal.
If your computer can't see your mouse in Bluetooth mode, try removing the device from the previously paired list and starting the process anew. Sometimes it helps to reboot the Bluetooth service in the system or completely restart the computer. Also make sure that there are not too many active Bluetooth devices connected to your computer at the same time.
โ ๏ธ If the mouse stops responding after a long downtime, remove the battery from the battery. 10-15 And then you put it back in, and that'll do a complete reset of the power controller.
Another problem could be contamination of the optical sensor: flip your mouse over and look at the sensor hole. If there's any dust or villi, gently blow them out or use a soft brush. Mud on the sensor is often mistaken by users for a malfunction of the electronics.