Casting from Chrome
Chrome can push a browser tab to a Chromecast on the same network. Convenient when the television has no browser of its own — with the caveat that the laptop doing the casting has to stay awake, on the network, and in the building.
What you need
- A Chromecast or a Google TV device plugged into the screen
- A laptop running Chrome
- Both on the same wi-fi network — this is the part venues most often get wrong
- Mains power for the laptop
Setting it up
Check both devices are on the same network
Many venues run a separate guest network from their staff one, and a device on each cannot see the other. If the Chromecast does not appear later, this is nearly always why.
Open the wall link in Chrome
Open the link ending in /wall in a normal tab and confirm photos are appearing before you try to cast it.
Cast the tab
Chrome's menu, then Cast, then pick the device. Choose “Cast tab” rather than casting the whole desktop — the tab option sends a cleaner picture and survives you using the laptop for something else.
Keep the laptop awake and on the network
Casting stops the moment the laptop sleeps, disconnects or leaves. If you need to take the laptop away during the evening, use a cable or a streaming stick instead.
If something is wrong
The Chromecast does not appear in the list
Nearly always the two devices being on different networks — check the guest and staff wi-fi. Failing that, restart the Chromecast and make sure the television is on the right input.
The picture stutters or lags
Casting sends video over the wi-fi, so a busy venue network shows immediately. A cable does not have this problem at all, which is why it is the better choice in a crowded room.