cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 
GadgetRescue
Virgin Media Staff
Virgin Media Staff

Gadget_Rescue_300x200.jpg

Tips and tricks

Chromecast

• How to set up Chromecast on your Virgin Media connection

• What can you do with Google's little hockey puck?

Google has become synonymous with our online lives. Seamlessly moving from Search to Maps, browsing and email, hardware and apps, the world truly has gone Google.

Google has also simplified streaming online content straight to your TV and audio to your hifi with the popular Chromecast range. 

Today we're going to look at configuring your Chromecast to the Virgin Media Network, and how to use it. But first, the basics.

What is Chromecast?

Chromecast is a device that plugs into your TV and is used to access streaming content from websites such as Netflix, YouTube, Google Play Store and other services. It can also stream almost any kind of content you can access through the Chrome browser, just like on a computer. In short, the device acts as a transmitter between the TV and the streaming video provider.

I can do the same with normal network and a PC... what’s so special about it?

Chromecast is plugged straight into a TV using the TV's HDMI port, or a USB Cable. Using a smartphone as a remote control, the device can be accessed to browse through video content on YouTube, tune in to Tidal, play Angry Birds, and you can cast the screen from your phone or share your browser session on your PC. 

What are the different types of Chromecast devices?

Chromecast comes in the following varieties:

1. Chromecast (regular): Broadcasts contents up to 1080p
2. Chromecast Ultra: Broadcasts contents up to 4K resolutions.
3. Chromecast Audio: Plugs into speakers to stream music over Wi-Fi

Chromecast Audio connects easily to the back of a speaker system using the stereo AUX portChromecast Audio connects easily to the back of a speaker system using the stereo AUX port

Device Compatibility

Chromecast is compatible with smartphones or tablets running Android or iOS; as well as computers running Windows & Mac OS X operating systems.

Now that we know all the basics, let’s get into configuring the device to your network and TV for optimal performance:

Connecting your TV to a Chromecast

1. Plug the Chromecast into the TV using the HDMI cable, and use the USB power cable or included adaptor connected to the power socket to give it power.

2. Once the Chromecast is connected to a TV, select the device you want to use to control the Chromecast, such as a smart phone, tablet, iPhone or iPad. Make sure you're connected to the home network that the Chromecast will connect to.

3. Download Google Home app on your selected device and setup the Chromecast following the various on screen prompts and register the device.

4. You’re now ready to start casting!

Videos can be accessed by simply pressing the “cast” button through the YouTube or Netflix interface. Video preferences such as volume, fast forwarding, …etc. can be controlled through a connected device with the Google Home app installed.

First generation Chromecast plugged directly into the HDMI socket on the TV. The micro-USB cable powers the device.First generation Chromecast plugged directly into the HDMI socket on the TV. The micro-USB cable powers the device.

 

Tips & tricks to connect Chromecast with Virgin Media

If you have issues with connecting your Chromecast to the Virgin Media network, try some of these tips & tricks:

1. The first-generation Chromecast devices will support WPA only. The Virgin Media Hub (all versions) does not have a WPA option. Instead, select WPA/WPA2 option on the device you’re using, and the Chromecast can be setup by securing with WPA2 to cast the streaming media on TV.

2. Stay up to date. Ensure your Chromecast has the latest firmware, as this can resolve many connectivity issues.

3. Enabling UPnP (Universal Plug and Play) or Multicast on your router or modem is essential to cast content. Chromecast will not be able to communicate with the router if the IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) is disabled on the router or IGMP Proxy is enabled on the router.

What next?

If you’re still experiencing issues with your Chromecast, Smart TV, or any other technology in your home, the Virgin Media Gadget Rescue team is here to help. We’re available 24/7 to answer almost any tech question you can think of (no Stranger Things 2 spoilers though!)

Any more tips to get the most out of the Chromecast? Let us know in a comment below!

Happy casting!

8 Comments