Google promises that the Chromecast media streamer is easy to set up, and to its credit, CNET mentions that it is easier to set up compared to other media streamers like Apple TV. While it's not a plug-and-play device, the Chromecast shouldn't take too long to set up - here's how.
Requirements
Users need to have the Chromecast dongle, complete with its accessories (the cables that come with the package). They also need an HDTV with an HDMI port, a USB port (optional) and a compatible device. Google's support page lists instructions for Android and iOS mobile devices, Windows and OS X computers, and Chrome OS devices.
Step 1: Plug in the Chromecast Dongle
Plugging in the dongle isn't going to be too much of a problem - just find an available HDMI port on an HDTV. Google provides an HDMI extension cable if the position of the TV does not permit the dongle to be plugged in directly.
The problem is in finding power for the dongle - it needs its own power source. Google provides two options for this: they include a micro USB cable, which the user can connect to the dongle and then connect to the TV's USB port, minimizing cables. If the USB port is too far from the dongle, or if there is no available USB port, the user can plug in the power adaptor provided in the package.
As soon as the dongle is plugged in, choose the corresponding HDMI input on the HDTV to see the Chromecast setup screen.
Step 2: Download the Chromecast Software
Chromecast operates over Wi-Fi, but as both CNET and PC Mag point out, it requires a compatible device to communicate with it. The screen will prompt the user to visit https://www.google.com/chromecast/setup to download the Chromecast app on the user's chosen device. Note that the program is compatible with the following systems:
ñ Android 2.3 and above
ñ iOS 6 and above
ñ Windows 7 and above
ñ OS X version 10.7 and above
ñ Chrome OS 28 and above
The program will download and install on the mobile device through their respective app stores. It can be downloaded and run or saved and run later on desktop, laptop devices and on the Chromebook.
Step 3: Set Up Chromecast
Once the app is installed, a user only needs to run it and select the Chromecast device to be set up. This is where Google's tutorial ends - it simply tells users to follow the setup prompts, but other tutorials elaborate what the prompts say.
The TV screen will display the Chromecast dongle's unique name and 4-digit ID to help users identify their device. Confirm that the unique name and 4-digit ID on the screen and on the device is the same to continue.
Finally, the user will be asked to select the Wi-Fi network to be used. Users should select the same Wi-Fi network they will use for the device where the Chromecast app is installed - it will not work if they are on different networks. Set up a password, name the Chromecast, and click continue. Chromecast will be set up
Step 4: Install Chromecast Extension
PC Mag's tutorial ends in the previous step, but Cnet adds one more step to the setup process. While the previous step already allows users to use the Chromecast features included in the dongle, it does not let users stream all types of web content from third-party sources (YouTube, Netflix, other video streaming sites) to the TV.
To do this, users need to install the Google Cast Chrome extension. This will install a Chromecast button to the user's browser, letting users see their web content on the TV screen. The app should prompt the user to install the extension after setup, but if it doesn't, users can search for the extension on Google Play store. Chromecast will now be fully set up and ready to use.
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