In this guide, we have explained which HDMI port should you use for your Chromecast. Modern-day smart TVs come equipped with more than one HDMI port. Users who are not so tech-savvy may find it confusing as to which HDMI port they should use for connecting the Chromecast device.
Chromecast is the popular streaming device from Google that enables watching content from your mobile device and cast it onto a big screen such as a TV. Today the concept of TV has changed into smart TVs and the overall design has become far more sophisticated.
Television models come with so many ports for different purposes. Those who are dabbling newly with Chromecast may find it a bit overwhelming to understand the proper connectivity of the Chromecast device to the TV.
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Chromecast Uses Which TV Port to Connect?
A TV unit comes with a dedicated HDMI port. The Chromecast can be connected to the TV using this HDMI port. Google Chromecast also has a micro-USB port which is meant to draw power for the streaming gadget.
Either you can connect the Micro-USB port to the Micro USB port on the TV to get the power from the TV itself. Otherwise, connect the Chromecast to a wall-mounted power outlet.
Notably, Chromecast packs a power adapter that is mountable on a wall. It is recommended to use the stock power adapter at all times for safety from electrical damage.
In the worst scenario, if the native power adapter becomes dysfunctional, then use a third-party power brick. To ensure that the power requirement for the Chromecast is compatible with the unofficial power adapter or it may cause electrical issues.
NOTE: The Powerbrick of Chromecast is not a charger. It has to be connected to the TV or power outlet to run when it is connected to the TV.
The HDMI Port on your TV must be compatible with HDCP 1.3 or higher version to connect and run a Chromecast device. If you are looking at playing 4K content on TV with Chromecast, the HDMI Port should support HDCP 2.2.
Role of HDCP in Streaming
High Bandwidth Digital Content Protection is the expansion of the acronym HDCP. It is used to stop piracy of digital information when it is being transmitted through HDMI, DVI, or similar media.
HDCP encrypts the digital signal shared across mediums. The information transmitting and the receiving device must authenticate to completely transmit the signal. Failing this the content transmission will be stopped.
The packaging in which your TV unit came must have a mention of the HDCP version and compatibility details. Even inside the how-to manual that accompanied your TV, there should be a mention of the HDCP compliance of the TV model. Additionally, you can talk to the sales support people from where you purchased the TV to know about the HDCP.
Using HDMI Arc Instead of Primary HDMI Port to Connect Chromecast
ARC is a port on the TV that you can use to connect to speakers. Along with that ARC port can be used as HDMI input for the Chromecast device. The audio output will be routed through the TV speakers.
If you have an external speaker connected to the TV, you can connect your Chromecast to the ARC port on that speaker. It will work just fine. The visual gets cast on the TV screen and the audio output is run through the auxiliary speaker setup.
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As we wrap this guide up, I’m sure now you know which HDMI port to connect your Chromecast to your television. In case, the native HDMI port is not working or your TV, you can make use of the ARC port to connect the Chromecast. All these alternatives for connecting the Chromecast will make your experience of streaming and casting content much easier.
