Administrator Updated on November 11, 2022 Chromecasts are awesome.  You can stream just about anything from your computer (or phone) to your TV using a Chromecast device.  You can mirror from Chrome, connect it to an Android or iOS phone, or stream with various apps.  There's a lot of flexibility, and you'll need to configure a few things to get everything set up. However, once you connect your Chromecast for the first time, everything else is easy. Here's how to do it.
Chromecast is Google’s streaming media player that allows users to project their photos, music, and videos from their phone to their TV. It uses the feature “screencasting” to “cast” media from their phone with a touch of a button.
With Chromecast, users do not need to download and set up different apps on their TV to access streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Spotify, and more. However, it is essential to note that Chromecast set up is no longer supported on a computer. A mobile device should be used to set up Chromecast successfully.
What is needed?
- A Chromecast device
- A mobile device
- A TV or any display device with an HDMI input (ex: HDTV)
- A secure wireless internet connection
Setting up Chromecast
- The first step is to plug in the Chromecast device to the TV and wait for it to power up. A prompt will appear on the TV when it’s ready for set up.
Download the latest version of the Google Home app on the mobile device. - The first-generation Chromecast (thumb-like shape) is set up a little differently from the newer generations (disc-shaped).
• First Generation Chromecast – connect to the temporary ad-hoc Wi-Fi network it creates. This can be found in the Wi-Fi settings of the mobile device. Look for a name that has “Chromecast” followed by some figures. Note that the name is unique to each Chromecast device.
• Second Generation Chromecast – this generation supports Bluetooth. Upon plug in, it usually connects over Bluetooth immediately if Bluetooth is turned on in the mobile device. Connecting via an ad-hoc Wi-Fi network is also possible.
• Chromecast Ultra – this generation also supports Bluetooth and connection via ad-hoc Wi-Fi network. In addition, this generation supports Ethernet connectivity as well. - Open the Google Home app on the mobile device. Most of the time, a prompt will automatically appear to begin the setup process upon the opening of the app. However, if a prompt does not appear, go to the top left corner of the Google Home app home screen and tap: + > Set up device > Set up new devices
- If it is the first set up process for Chromecast, a prompt will appear to confirm the device with its temporary name. Click “Continue.”
- The app will then send a confirmation code to the TV. This code is alphanumeric. On the phone, the app would flash a TV screen with this text below: “Do you see the code on the TV? The code ___ should be on your TV. This helps ensure you are setting up the right Chromecast.”
Tap, “I see it” option. - Once this is done, select the region of residence (ex: United States). Click “Continue.”
A prompt will appear to change the name of the Chromecast from its temporary name. - Always make sure that the W-Fi network the Chromecast is connected to is the same as what the mobile device is on. This ensures what will be projected on the screen.
- Users can link their Chromecast to their Google account for advanced features like customizing backdrops with personal photos.
- Done!
Troubleshooting
If all the steps were followed, but the set up did not work, try the following steps:
- Reboot the Chromecast.
- Unplug the router and plug it back in.
- Factory Reset the Chromecast.
- Contact Google support.
To cast videos and music on the TV, use apps on mobile devices with built-in casting (ex: Netflix and YouTube). Once an app with Chromecast compatibility is opened, open a video and tap on the Chromecast logo. Streaming will automatically begin on the TV.
Summary: Connect to Chromecast
- Set up your Chromecast device.
- Plug in Chromecast.
- Download and open the Google Home app.
- Connect to Wi-Fi.
- Enable Guest Mode.
- Cast media to your TV or speakers.
