Many probably met the word Miracast in the options of a new TV, laptop, tablet or smartphone? What is this feature patented in 2012 and why is it needed?
What is Miracast
In fact, this is a wireless interface, and in more detail, it is a kind of communication channel that replaces the function of an HDMI cable. In other words, the function implements wireless communication between the monitors of a TV, computer or laptop with the monitors of a tablet, netbook or smartphone. That is, everything that happens on the screen of a smartphone, tablet can be duplicated on a TV, PC monitor, laptop.
Miracast has its own synchronization package and does not require the use of any additional devices. Except for providing a computer with this function, a special Miracast receiver may be necessary.
This connection has such advantages as:
- high-speed image transmission, resolution up to 1920 × 1200 FullHD;
- uses Wi-Fi standard IEEE 802.11n, which provides data transfer rates up to 150 Mbps;
- high level of native synchronization;
- the ability to transfer 3D video;
- simple interface with full automation of all settings;
- compatibility of all devices of the Miracast standard.
But even if the TV or monitor does not have such a function, it can be installed by connecting a special inexpensive Miracast adapter via the HDMI connector. No devices are needed for the tablet or smartphone. All Apple devices support this feature. For Android, it’s enough for the smartphone to have the “Wireless Screen” option in the “Screen” section of “Settings”.
How to find out if your TV supports Miracast
If the TV was manufactured after 2012, then most likely it has this function. This type of connection is now being established in almost all LCD TVs. A detailed description of the method of using this service is set out in the technical documentation that is attached to the TV. You can also find out about its availability by checking it directly on the TV receiver itself.
Brand TVs Philips, LG, Sony, Samsung, Toshiba or Hitachi and others have their own types of interfaces. Therefore, to find out about the availability of this function, you must read the operating instructions or try to search for it in the menu yourself:
- turn on the remote control button "Smart" or "Home", it may just be a house on it;
- section HDMI-2 search for "Screen Share";
- set up a smartphone or tablet.
In an extreme case, you have to study through the search system the Internet network.
In domestic models or similar, it is located in the "Settings" option in the "Network Connections" section. Can be represented by a globe icon. There should be an option with the word Miracast. If it is absent, then most likely the manufacturers saved on this and an adapter is needed for its implementation.
Configure Miracast
After this mode is turned on on the TV, you need to connect and the system itself can coordinate both devices.You can connect from your smartphone or tablet with Android OS by going to Settings / Screen / Wireless screen / Miracast. In some models, Settings / Wireless / More / Play To.
From a device with iPhone, Android, you can connect by turning on Wi-Fi. Go to Settings / Other networks. Here you need to find and run the Screen Mirroring application. The name of the TV or the device to which you want to connect should appear on the screen of the device to be matched. The system usually does not request any passwords.
IMPORTANT!With long streaming from a smartphone or tablet, you need to take care of the adequacy of the battery charge. And if it's convenient, connect a charger to it.
Setting up Miracast reception on a laptop or PC
Laptops usually all contain Wi-Fi modules, modern motherboards also usually have built-in Wi-Fi. But even if this module is not, then you can use a portable Miracast-receiver, connected via a USB-connector. But, if the devices are running OS version Windows 7 and below, it is not possible to coordinate them.
Other versions, Windows 8, 8.1, 10 may perform maintenance of the described function. For a quick definition, you need to open the search engine in the "Task Bar" and insert the word Miracast. Then the option "Project on this computer" will be offered. After turning it on, a window with parameters will open where it will be indicated whether the device supports this connection or not. In case of support, you can enable it.
The name of your computer will be displayed on the opposite device after enabling the necessary modes described above.
What to do if you have problems with Miracast
The reason why the TV refuses to make a connection is a module malfunction or the lack of the necessary driver. The problem with the driver can be easily solved if the TV is connected to the Internet, for example, via Wi-Fi. Then in the Miracast section you need to run the Upgrade application. The system itself will download and install the necessary software, it will only be necessary to follow the proposed algorithm.
The main reasons why it is impossible to establish a connection:
- absence or incompatibility of this function in any of the devices;
- lack of the necessary driver;
- "old" OS that does not have the appropriate software;
- malfunction of any of the modules.
Problems connecting to computer
An OS must be installed on the computer that is not lower than Windows 8. A prerequisite must be a Wi-Fi module, as well as a driver that comes with a laptop or motherboard with built-in Wi-Fi. It can also be downloaded, but only directly from the manufacturer’s website.
Lack of the necessary driver or installing the driver from other sources may be the reason that the OS will give a negative answer. Although the PC can support this function, if you update the video card driver with software directly from the manufacturer's website.
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