Related
I am frequently presenting on open WiFi networks, but the catch on these networks is they usually require click-through on a webpage. The CC cannot preform the click-through so using CC on these networks fails.
I am looking for alternatives to engineer a working solution to allow the CC to work depending only on the open WiFi network with click-through requirements. There are at least two other (less desirable) working methods. First, create my own WiFi hotspot, but this has a significant disadvantage that the audience wants to connect to my WiFi hotspot to experiment with the CC. Second, connect to a secure WiFi network without click-through requirement, but this is frequently not available at my presentation locations. I realize I can use the CC on a secure network with password, as long as it does not require click-through on a web page.
The ideal solution/workaround would allow the CC to connect to some AP or other WiFi point that was bridged or sourced by an "open WiFi network that requires click-through" as these types of networks are most frequently available. Plus the audience is usually already connected to the same network. But, I have not thought of a useful method to accomplish it, likely because of my limited network engineering and hardware knowledge. Two other nice-to-have features would be (1) portability and (2) working with both Windows 7 x64 and Mac OS if a laptop is used to accomplish the bridge or AP.
Methods might include something simple I'm overlooking, or an CC application, or a hardware solution (like turning my laptop into an AP after connecting to the "open WiFi network that requires click-through", or anything else.
Any suggestions highly appreciated.
PS: I am not rooted if recommending an Android device or application.
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SOLVED.
The solution was using TP-Link 150Mbps Wireless N Mini Pocket Router TL-WR710N configured in "WISP Client Router Mode". I bought mine on Amazon here for $27.27 USD plus tax. An extra feature is a USB port which can be used to power the CCast.
As discussed in the thread, there is WISP mode *wired* LAN, and WISP mode *wireless* LAN.
Some devices implement WISP mode by connecting to a public WiFi network and giving you *wired* local LAN. Alone, these do not work with CCast because CCast requires a *wireless* local LAN. WISP mode to *wired* LAN does NOT work.
Yet, the TL-WR710N implements WISP mode by connecting to a public WiFi network and giving you a *wireless* local LAN, complete with new Wireless Network Name (SSID) and IP address scheme served by DHCP. This works 100% with CCast.
Once the CCast is configured on the local SSID and local IP (default 192.168.0.1xx) you can cast Youtube, etc., or screen cast from your Android device.
No wonder there is confusion about WISP mode implementation.
Many thanks to people contributing to this thread's discussion!!
Note: Cloning the CCast MAC is *not* required because you can connect any device to the TL-WR710N in WISP mode and use the browser to click-through - authorizing the WR710N MAC on your public WiFi. Then all the clients, including CCast, connecting on the local *wireless* LAN simply work.
You need a program that will let you clone the CCast's MAC address on a computer, unplug the CCast...
Clone the Mac Address, Do the click through, Disconnect the computer UnClone the Mac Address. Re-Connect the CCast.
Connect the computer as normal.
But be warned...Most APs who have a click through page for access also have AP Isolation turned on which makes it impossible to find the CCast to stream to it.
Asphyx said:
You need a program that will let you clone the CCast's MAC address on a computer, unplug the CCast...
Clone the Mac Address, Do the click through, Disconnect the computer UnClone the Mac Address. Re-Connect the CCast.
Connect the computer as normal.
But be warned...Most APs who have a click through page for access also have AP Isolation turned on which makes it impossible to find the CCast to stream to it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Okay thanks. I will test cloning.
But, if you are correct and most networks have AP Isolation preventing CC, then I need an alternative solution.
------
I was intrigued by this post. But configuring an TL-WR703N with "openwrt+luci web interface" is not clear to me. Yet, this seems a possible good solution.
Also, browsing this link at Cisco made me think what user @bagl0312 accomplished is quite good.
Bob Smith42 said:
Okay thanks. I will test cloning.
But, if you are correct and most networks have AP Isolation preventing CC, then I need an alternative solution.
------
I was intrigued by this post. But configuring an TL-WR703N with "openwrt+luci web interface" is not clear to me. Yet, this seems a possible good solution.
Also, browsing this link at Cisco made me think what user @bagl0312 accomplished is quite good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think there are better options for Remote usage such as Portable routers with the ability to connect to other wireless AP devices for it's WAN,
Or if you already have a cellular data account for your phone, adding one of those MiFi wireless hotspot devices that you can use as a router pretty much anywhere including where there is no free WiFi.
You just have to be careful with the latter option because Data Charges will apply if you use too much Internet access on them.
Asphyx said:
I think there are better options for Remote usage such as Portable routers with the ability to connect to other wireless AP devices for it's WAN,
Or if you already have a cellular data account for your phone, adding one of those MiFi wireless hotspot devices that you can use as a router pretty much anywhere including where there is no free WiFi.
You just have to be careful with the latter option because Data Charges will apply if you use too much Internet access on them.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Does anyone have any recommended models for *portable* routers with "wifi as wan" capability?
Bob Smith42 said:
Does anyone have any recommended models for *portable* routers with "wifi as wan" capability?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're looking for what's typically known as a "travel router" and the "WiFi as WAN" feature, as least on my Zyxel routers is called "WISP mode" (Wireless ISP).
It does exactly what you said, instead of using a wired connection for WAN, it uses a wireless connection - the router still functions as a router, so you might have some issues with double-NAT-ing in some cases.
I have both the MWR211 (single Ethernet port so you can do wired LAN or wired WAN but not both simultaneously) and MWR222 (two Ethernet ports, so you can do both wired LAN and WAN simultaneousl) - they're almost identical, save for lacking SNMP on the MWR211. I have not had opportunity to use the WISP mode though I've used the 3G (they support most USB cell modems) as backup from time to time.
Info's a little lacking since they're discontinued models, but I got them off a Woot deal while back for under $50.
MWR211/222 manual
bhiga said:
You're looking for what's typically known as a "travel router" and the "WiFi as WAN" feature, as least on my Zyxel routers is called "WISP mode" (Wireless ISP).
It does exactly what you said, instead of using a wired connection for WAN, it uses a wireless connection - the router still functions as a router, so you might have some issues with double-NAT-ing in some cases.
I have both the MWR211 (single Ethernet port so you can do wired LAN or wired WAN but not both simultaneously) and MWR222 (two Ethernet ports, so you can do both wired LAN and WAN simultaneousl) - they're almost identical, save for lacking SNMP on the MWR211. I have not had opportunity to use the WISP mode though I've used the 3G (they support most USB cell modems) as backup from time to time.
Info's a little lacking since they're discontinued models, but I got them off a Woot deal while back for under $50.
MWR211/222 manual
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This information was helpful. I read the manual. I will have to test the double-NATing with CC, e.g. issues with WAN accessing private vs public network IP as described in the manual. I found an inexpensive MWR222 to evaluate.
I suspect its wireless WAN mode will help, but when set in that mode it looks like it may not (guess) simultaneously have hotspot capability. Still, in that case, I can connect a small AP to its Ethernet LAN and probably get the CC working. I will test my hypothesis and report CC results once I receive the device.
I also found an inexpensive TL-WR703N with memory updates (RAM, Flash) that is supposed to support OpenWrt. I will flash it with OpenWrt once I get it and report CC results. Hopefully, I can reproduce @bagl0312 configuration with CC with success.
I am starting to understand the networking issues and configurations required. Everyone's help is appreciated. Thanks.
Bob Smith42 said:
This information was helpful. I read the manual. I will have to test the double-NATing with CC, e.g. issues with WAN accessing private vs public network IP as described in the manual. I found an inexpensive MWR222 to evaluate.
I suspect its wireless WAN mode will help, but when set in that mode it looks like it may not (guess) simultaneously have hotspot capability.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You wouldn't want hotspot capability if you are using it in WAN mode anyway since you will be using the Wireless internet connection from the location and not the data plan of your Cell Service.
Thats why you want the WAN/WISP option in the first place to stop from having to eat into your Data Allotment on your Cell Carrier account.
Asphyx said:
You wouldn't want hotspot capability if you are using it in WAN mode anyway since you will be using the Wireless internet connection from the location and not the data plan of your Cell Service.
Thats why you want the WAN/WISP option in the first place to stop from having to eat into your Data Allotment on your Cell Carrier account.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No. I need both, unless someone figures out another workaround (see below).
The CC has two requirements:
(1) connect to public IP (internet) for data, and
(2) connect to local IP (android devices, chrome on laptops, iphones, etc) for remote control and mirroring.
CC configurations issues with WiFi services offering access to public IP (internet) are:
(1) Both open or encrypted networks frequently have web page click-through requirements that CC cannot perform, and
(2) CC and connecting WiFi devices must connect point-to-point on the local IP network which is frequently blocked (AP isolation, etc).
I agree with you because I do not *want* a dual WiFi network solution, but I have found no alternatives so far. lol
We can engineer a dual WiFi network solution for sure, but it might be easier to address some of the core usability issues of the CC in some other (more clever) way. Some other workarounds might include combinations from (or may not be possible):
(1) Cloning MAC on CC to bypass click-through requirements.
(2) Add BT capability on CC. Overcome AP isolation on the local IP network using high bandwidth BT for remote control and screen mirroring.
(3) Add browser capability on CC for click-through, and mouse or touch control for CC.
(4) Clever method to defeat WiFi local IP network AP isolation between CC and devices.
(5) Others?
Hopefully someone is already working on better solutions.
Bob Smith42 said:
No. I need both, unless someone figures out another workaround (see below).
The CC has two requirements:
(1) connect to public IP (internet) for data, and
(2) connect to local IP (android devices, chrome on laptops, iphones, etc) for remote control and mirroring.
CC configurations issues with WiFi services offering access to public IP (internet) are:
(1) Both open or encrypted networks frequently have web page click-through requirements that CC cannot perform, and
(2) CC and connecting WiFi devices must connect point-to-point on the local IP network which is frequently blocked (AP isolation, etc).
I agree with you because I do not *want* a dual WiFi network solution, but I have found no alternatives so far. lol
We can engineer a dual WiFi network solution for sure, but it might be easier to address some of the core usability issues of the CC in some other (more clever) way. Some other workarounds might include combinations from (or may not be possible):
(1) Cloning MAC on CC to bypass click-through requirements.
(2) Add BT capability on CC. Overcome AP isolation on the local IP network using high bandwidth BT for remote control and screen mirroring.
(3) Add browser capability on CC for click-through, and mouse or touch control for CC.
(4) Clever method to defeat WiFi local IP network AP isolation between CC and devices.
(5) Others?
Hopefully someone is already working on better solutions.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But the Router will do the proper NAT Translation for you for the Internet access...
When the CCast asks for something from the internet it asks the portable router then the portable router will use the location WiFi to get it and then send it to the CCast.
The CCast doesn't need a public IP it only needs to be connected to a device that can get internet data.
what you do have to do however is use a different IP Range on the DHCP server of the portable router...
So if the Router gets an IP like 192.168.1.x from the WiFi you have to use a different set like 192.168.2.x for your DHCP server...
@Bob Smith42 's concern is valid, I didn't think about the fact that WLAN as WAN takes out the AP functionality. I just confirmed this.
So, really what we end up needing is still two devices - a wireless bridge to get wireless to wired - either a router in WISP mode or something like Cisco/Linksys WET610N (I keep laughing at the "Up to 300 Mbps" as it only has a 100 Mbps Ethernet port), and a router to provide the AP...
IMO, the "local WiFi" network really is the best way to go. It may seem redundant at times, but at least you can still do stuff if you have no WiFi, or WiFi is paid per-client (it's changing, but a number of hotels I've been at were like this).
As for other mechanisms, maybe the "Don't need to be on the same WiFi" feature that's coming will address this, but I don't think it will. Then again, I didn't think screen casting would happen on older hardware like my Galaxy S3, and it does (via MirrorEnabler), so maybe I'll be pleasantly proved wrong again.
bhiga said:
@Bob Smith42 's concern is valid, I didn't think about the fact that WLAN as WAN takes out the AP functionality. I just confirmed this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well then I stand corrected and have to add thats just bad design...You should be able to to simply connect the Portable to the WiFi and then use it as your Wireless AP for multiple devices otherwise what is the point of this WISP mode at all? Unless it is to turn Wireless into Wired only...
Google does have a solution to solve this in the pipeline...That Proximity streaming we talked about where you can stream to it over Cell data without being connected to the home network.
But thats just going to ring up data charges I would think.
Asphyx said:
what is the point of this WISP mode at all? Unless it is to turn Wireless into Wired only...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's exactly what WISP is for. The MWR2xx series mainly takes a wired/wireless ISP connection and turns it into a wireless/wired connection with USB modem backup.
The MWR222 can also do wired-wired with USB failover since it has two Ethernet ports.
Given the age of the design I'm not sure the WiFi chip they use can operate as both client and AP simultaneously.
bump
Thread updated. TL-WR710N works 100% with CCast on all (tested so far) WiFi networks.
Bob Smith42 said:
bump
Thread updated. TL-WR710N works 100% with CCast on all (tested so far) WiFi networks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thats how I understood those Portable routers were supposed to work so you could add things like Portable Wireless printers all the while having internet access from configured Wireless APs...
Ok so I picked up this 710N router on Amazon since I had a gift certificate I needed to use and while the promise of this router seems to be there I'm having real issues getting it to work properly but part of that has to do with it really requires a WIRED Connection to set up properly.
It does seem to do what we would need in a Hotel but I have not been able to mimic that on this unit using my own router and I'm suspecting that maybe my Router is not supporting it or I'm just reading the settings wrong.
I'll keep trying here and see what it requires...I Might need to set up the guest network cause the issue might be the click through is not there or my regular router is set to NOT allow another AP to connect...Just got it today so I will continue to play with it.
Asphyx said:
Ok so I picked up this 710N router on Amazon since I had a gift certificate I needed to use and while the promise of this router seems to be there I'm having real issues getting it to work properly but part of that has to do with it really requires a WIRED Connection to set up properly.
It does seem to do what we would need in a Hotel but I have not been able to mimic that on this unit using my own router and I'm suspecting that maybe my Router is not supporting it or I'm just reading the settings wrong.
I'll keep trying here and see what it requires...I Might need to set up the guest network cause the issue might be the click through is not there or my regular router is set to NOT allow another AP to connect...Just got it today so I will continue to play with it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Rest assured, it works great for me. E.g. when I was at Starbucks (requires click through, has AP isolation) I got CCast working with WISP on my private SSID. Testing a few corporate locations today. The CCast took a while to *finish* setup, it hung first time. So I pulled power and tried twice. Second time worked. Not very scientific, sorry. I definitely used my laptop to click through on Starbucks and I was wired during setup. I will attempt to run some configuration tests non-wired too (thanks for update). The big advantage of the 710N is inexpensive, if you have AC power source.
Also, I found another awesome portable router, better for CCast in my situation but also more expensive, e.g. $60 USD. I configured this one completely non-wired.
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UPDATE: The HooToo TM04 does *not* work on certain networks. Do Not Buy!!! Read below...
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HooToo TM04 product webpage here, and amazon here. It is a really new item.
This item costs $60 USD on amazon. It has 6000 mah battery and without external power it can power two USB items (1) CCast plus second USB item (like phone, tablet, drive, pico projector, etc). Has two battery recharging modes: wall AC (faster) or microUsb. Lots of other features. Good review videos on YouTube here.
Good luck.
@Asphyx
# TL-WR710N
I configured my CCast on another network (so it required reconfiguration at Starbucks) and took it back to Starbucks. I plugged the TL-WR710N into AC power, without wiring anything on NIC WAN nor LAN, and waiting about 2 minutes. Since I had already configured the 710N for WISP mode it restarted in that mode. It was the *same* location I had previously configured WISP, so that probably helps. (I will test WISP on new location tonight).
At this point I tried CCast setup. I connected my Nexus 7 (2013) to the 710N WiFi SSID. Using the Nexus 7 I attempted to setup the CCast, and completed all the input configuration screens. But, the Setup screen *hangs* after confirming name and entering my WiFi SSID password. By hanging I mean the CCast app big circle keeps spinning and after about 5 minutes returns an error. But, this error is wrong because the CCast device is actually configured and working.
I must perform the Starbucks click-through on the Nexus 7 2013 to register the 710N MAC address to access the internet.
While the CCast app circle is spinning I switched to YouTube and it casts perfectly. Also, I can screen cast the Nexus 7 2013. I tried a couple tricks but the CCast app never successfully *completed* setup, yet the CCast device works 100%. Hmmmm.
# HooToo TM04
-----
UPDATE: The HooToo TM04 does *not* work on certain networks. Do Not Buy!!! Read below...
------
So, I substituted the HooToo TM04 at Starbucks. The configuration was completely wireless (never used NIC cables) and basically the CCast app setup completed successfully! All the CCast device features (YouTube internet cast, local Nexus 7 2013 screen cast) worked 100%. Very simple and smooth configuration with no glitches.
# Summary
The difference was only the CCast app setup result, The 710N *hangs* with a spinning circle and eventually returns an error dialog, but the CCast device is configured and working 100%. The HooToo completes setup correctly, and CCast device is configured and working 100%.
I am now wondering if there is a setting on the TL-WR710N required to allow CCast app setup to complete successfully (even though the CCast device is configured and working)?
I will test further. Any comments or feedback requested.
Bob Smith42 said:
@Asphyx
# TL-WR710N
...
But, the Setup screen *hangs* after confirming name and entering my WiFi SSID password. By hanging I mean the CCast app big circle keeps spinning and after about 5 minutes returns an error. But, this error is wrong because the CCast device is actually configured and working.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Chromecast setup app has done the same to me a few times - and that's on my home WiFi that works fine.
I wouldn't worry about it too much, I think it's just some kind of timing glitch.
As long as exiting and returning to the Chromecast setup app reports Ready to Cast and Chromecast works, it's good to go.
Oh I'm sure it does work Bob, I'm just missing something and what makes it worse is I was trying to do this all through Wireless and a mobile device which this unit is difficult to setup with.
I set up WISP mode but the issue is on reboot it didn't give me an SSID to reconnect.
I'm sure I'm just borking something in the settings so when I have the chance to do this all via wired connection I will play with it a bit more...
If the network has internet initially, it buys me the time to enable screen casting after which the link remains up. The problem is when powering on the chromecast without internet access. It effectively disables the device and makes it invisible to the screen cast search.
Is there any way to circumvent this limitation? I don't need the chromecast to have any access to the internet at all for my usage.
Xenosis said:
If the network has internet initially, it buys me the time to enable screen casting after which the link remains up. The problem is when powering on the chromecast without internet access. It effectively disables the device and makes it invisible to the screen cast search.
Is there any way to circumvent this limitation? I don't need the chromecast to have any access to the internet at all for my usage.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope the CCast needs Internet to load the app it uses to display your screen or anything that is being streamed to it!
Asphyx said:
Nope the CCast needs Internet to load the app it uses to display your screen or anything that is being streamed to it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So it might be theoretically possible to supply that app in the closed network?
It doesn't need the internet for screen casting at all, just the in-app chromecast link, which I don't use at all. I just use the mirroring functionality.
Xenosis said:
So it might be theoretically possible to supply that app in the closed network?
It doesn't need the internet for screen casting at all, just the in-app chromecast link, which I don't use at all. I just use the mirroring functionality.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nope!
Not unless it is rooted and you have your own local Whitelisting that points to your own app....
And you would STILL have to fnd some way of downloading and storing a local version of the mirroring app that is normally loaded from the internet to point to with your custom whitelist.
Asphyx said:
Nope!
Not unless it is rooted and you have your own local Whitelisting that points to your own app....
And you would STILL have to fnd some way of downloading and storing a local version of the mirroring app that is normally loaded from the internet to point to with your custom whitelist.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im not able to do any kind of "offline" playback
which was a big part of me rooting ...
so how would i go about trying to have a local app for the whitelist etc ....
miniminus said:
im not able to do any kind of "offline" playback
which was a big part of me rooting ...
so how would i go about trying to have a local app for the whitelist etc ....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Next to impossible....
The playback will stay offline but it still needs an internet connection to load the player that will do the playback....
i've been googling for hours. the whole world is crying out for this.. Give me Chromecast mirroring without internet!
Surely with a rooted phone and rooted CC it must be achievable.
Anyone ever log where the CC goes looking for the streaming app? If we can work out that surely we can:
Download it manually.
Host the app on laptop/tablet - Redirect via DNS or webserver.. proxy.. something!..
I may try and hook up my CC through my wifi internet sharing so i can wireshark to see where and what its doing via the internet.. so i can then attempt to spoof it..
(I really want to get this working on WifiAP alone - no internet). (I got a lot of places with no internet whatsover available).
Any other suggestions would be appreciated..
(I dont have a rooted CC at this point so i may have trouble).
Sage said:
i've been googling for hours. the whole world is crying out for this.. Give me Chromecast mirroring without internet!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you want to look at using is Miracast....But it requires having a device that supports it.
Most Miracast Dongles also have a DLNA Mode that will allow you to send streams of content to directly play on it allowing you to use other apps on the launching device.
Asphyx said:
What you want to look at using is Miracast....But it requires having a device that supports it.
Most Miracast Dongles also have a DLNA Mode that will allow you to send streams of content to directly play on it allowing you to use other apps on the launching device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I happen to be in a particularly rare (I hope) situation as the HTC One m7 that I have cannot properly do miracasting but can do chromecasting very well. By not properly, I mean netflix screen remains black on the receiving device when attempting to miracast.
Xenosis said:
I happen to be in a particularly rare (I hope) situation as the HTC One m7 that I have cannot properly do miracasting but can do chromecasting very well. By not properly, I mean netflix screen remains black on the receiving device when attempting to miracast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yep there is a lot involved in getting any of these to work due to the limitations of both systems...
There are other ways to go about getting what you want...
1 - Get a Roku which you can send content to using a variety of means or control directly if you get a model with a remote.
2 - Get one of the many Android Sticks and load up a DLNA player (like aVia) that most CCast capable apps can send content to directly.
3 - If you have a cell phone simply buy and add a Mobile Hotspot device to the account that shares your data allotment. You won't be using a lot of data if all you are doing is streaming local content, just the small data needed to load up the receiver app the CCast needs. And you have Data and Internet capability anywhere when you need it.
But the CCast itself is meant to be little more than adding some smart capability to a TV which in most cases requires internet access.
That's why it's so cheap because it doesn't require any storage to keep Apps on the device it gets it all from the Internet....
Unfortunately it also gives Google complete control of what can be displayed on the device which is why everyone was so quick to root the device.
Perhaps in the future some Developer will make a custom rom that allows direct streaming without the need for Internet connection...
But who knows what kind of hornets nest that might stir up with the content providers. Right now everyone agrees the most important thing is to get more support from content providers for the CCast Device and concept.
Anything that might get them to shy away is probably not worth doing right now
Asphyx said:
Yep there is a lot involved in getting any of these to work due to the limitations of both systems...
There are other ways to go about getting what you want...
1 - Get a Roku which you can send content to using a variety of means or control directly if you get a model with a remote.
2 - Get one of the many Android Sticks and load up a DLNA player (like aVia) that most CCast capable apps can send content to directly.
3 - If you have a cell phone simply buy and add a Mobile Hotspot device to the account that shares your data allotment. You won't be using a lot of data if all you are doing is streaming local content, just the small data needed to load up the receiver app the CCast needs. And you have Data and Internet capability anywhere when you need it.
But the CCast itself is meant to be little more than adding some smart capability to a TV which in most cases requires internet access.
That's why it's so cheap because it doesn't require any storage to keep Apps on the device it gets it all from the Internet....
Unfortunately it also gives Google complete control of what can be displayed on the device which is why everyone was so quick to root the device.
Perhaps in the future some Developer will make a custom rom that allows direct streaming without the need for Internet connection...
But who knows what kind of hornets nest that might stir up with the content providers. Right now everyone agrees the most important thing is to get more support from content providers for the CCast Device and concept.
Anything that might get them to shy away is probably not worth doing right now
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hello. I'm trying to mirror my new Nexus 6 to my TV using a Microsoft Wireless Display adapter. The N6 does not officially support miracast, but I enabled through a build.prop edit and using WiFi Direct. It works perfect for everything except Netflix and Hulu (just audio works with a black screen and controls displaying). I'm guessing this is a HDCP/DRM problem. Anyway around this? Would Chromecast work? The N6 does support CC., but I DO NOT have internet in my home. I don't want to stream anything on the TV. Just stream on my phone and display on the TV. If I use hotspot to establish an initial connection for the Chromecast, then turn the hotspot off, would mirroring still work?
Thanks
Direct answer I think is no if you need to get external content. If you enable a hotspot, you will be able to hook the chromecast up to your phone and it will have internet. You would then be stuck as to connect to the chromecast you would have to disable the hotspot. After doing that, your chromecast is thrown into the abyss and needs a new network to connect to.
If your intended usage is in-home then you just need a chromecast pushing device in an isolated wifi network. That wifi network can be your phone with tethering on. You can use another phone (doesn't need data, just wifi) to cast to your chromecast and get data over the tethered connection.
If you want to cast a local file to chromecast, you can get any cheapo router that would be connected to nothing and that should all work smoothly without even using a hotspot.
I happen to be in the same boat when it comes to black screen miracast and yes I think it is an HDCP problem. I am searching high and low for a way to disable HDCP checking when outputing over wifi.
Useful info though not about my phone or yours:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/help/how-to-skip-disable-hdcp-checkcan-t2854550
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nex...-mirroring-broken-t2599349/page2#post57456682
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2660448&page=2
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=49265142&postcount=118
ryan4a said:
Hello. I'm trying to mirror my new Nexus 6 to my TV using a Microsoft Wireless Display adapter. The N6 does not officially support miracast, but I enabled through a build.prop edit and using WiFi Direct. It works perfect for everything except Netflix and Hulu (just audio works with a black screen and controls displaying). I'm guessing this is a HDCP/DRM problem. Anyway around this? Would Chromecast work? The N6 does support CC., but I DO NOT have internet in my home. I don't want to stream anything on the TV. Just stream on my phone and display on the TV. If I use hotspot to establish an initial connection for the Chromecast, then turn the hotspot off, would mirroring still work?
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No your Video issue is probably a codec issue with your wireless display adapter.
I'm pretty sure also that Netflix and Hulu have protected their displays so that screen casting would not work.
It's not HDCP/DRM per say but it is a way of protecting the content from being copied.
Xenosis said:
Direct answer I think is no if you need to get external content. If you enable a hotspot, you will be able to hook the chromecast up to your phone and it will have internet. You would then be stuck as to connect to the chromecast you would have to disable the hotspot. After doing that, your chromecast is thrown into the abyss and needs a new network to connect to.
If your intended usage is in-home then you just need a chromecast pushing device in an isolated wifi network. That wifi network can be your phone with tethering on. You can use another phone (doesn't need data, just wifi) to cast to your chromecast and get data over the tethered connection.
If you want to cast a local file to chromecast, you can get any cheapo router that would be connected to nothing and that should all work smoothly without even using a hotspot.
I happen to be in the same boat when it comes to black screen miracast and yes I think it is an HDCP problem. I am searching high and low for a way to disable HDCP checking when outputing over wifi.
Useful info though not about my phone or yours:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/xperia-z2/help/how-to-skip-disable-hdcp-checkcan-t2854550
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nex...-mirroring-broken-t2599349/page2#post57456682
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2660448&page=2
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=49265142&postcount=118
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. This solution worked...sort of. I'm was able to tether my data from my Nexus 6 to an ipad and the chromecast to establish the initial connection. Now, I disconnect the ipad and the chromecast will still be connected to my tethered network. This allows me to stream Netflix and also mirror local content using only the chromecast and my tethered N6. It is a workaround, but I was hoping to use pure miracast and avoid tethering. But oh well.
---------- Post added at 05:12 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:55 PM ----------
Asphyx said:
No your Video issue is probably a codec issue with your wireless display adapter.
I'm pretty sure also that Netflix and Hulu have protected their displays so that screen casting would not work.
It's not HDCP/DRM per say but it is a way of protecting the content from being copied.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. That's what I thought too. See my response above.Looks like I'll be returning the microsoft adapter, unless the following will eventually work:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/help/nexus-6-miracast-t2952461/post57462471#post57462471
Asphyx said:
No your Video issue is probably a codec issue with your wireless display adapter.
I'm pretty sure also that Netflix and Hulu have protected their displays so that screen casting would not work.
It's not HDCP/DRM per say but it is a way of protecting the content from being copied.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is there any way around this limitation?
ryan4a said:
Thanks. This solution worked...sort of. I'm was able to tether my data from my Nexus 6 to an ipad and the chromecast to establish the initial connection. Now, I disconnect the ipad and the chromecast will still be connected to my tethered network. This allows me to stream Netflix and also mirror local content using only the chromecast and my tethered N6. It is a workaround, but I was hoping to use pure miracast and avoid tethering. But oh well.
---------- Post added at 05:12 PM ---------- Previous post was at 04:55 PM ----------
Thanks. That's what I thought too. See my response above.Looks like I'll be returning the microsoft adapter, unless the following will eventually work:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/nexus-6/help/nexus-6-miracast-t2952461/post57462471#post57462471
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Even better solution - try this out:
You can set up a mobile hotspot, pair the chromecast to that hotspot one time with another android device, and than go into the chromecast app on the hotspot phone, and finally ignore turning wifi back on and just cast screen to the chromecast. It works flawlessly.
Xenosis said:
Even better solution - try this out:
You can set up a mobile hotspot, pair the chromecast to that hotspot one time with another android device, and than go into the chromecast app on the hotspot phone, and finally ignore turning wifi back on and just cast screen to the chromecast. It works flawlessly.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. Not sure I know what you mean. I'm really trying to eliminate the need for hotspot completely. I have an unlimited data plant and I'm worried AT&T will find out about my unauthorized tethering, then force me into a capped plan.
ryan4a said:
Thanks. Not sure I know what you mean. I'm really trying to eliminate the need for hotspot completely. I have an unlimited data plant and I'm worried AT&T will find out about my unauthorized tethering, then force me into a capped plan.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's what's great about using screen cast. The chromecast won't actually be pulling data from the hotspot. It's somehow piggybacking on the devices hotspot wifi network subnet and just pushing data directly to the chromecast. Your phone will authentically be pulling any stream data from your data plan as it would normally.
ie the chromecast is just a receiver in this configuration. In terms of actually casting an app, I'm not even sure if that is possible so I don't think you'd even accidentally be having your chromecast use data.
There would be the small amount of chromecast traffic checking for an update or whatever it does idly and that would go out over your phones data.
To be safe I would recommend something like this: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formichelli.tetheringfix&hl=en
I don't think they could force you to change plans but they could charge you for the additional hotspot service. A working tether fix should spoof any hotspot traffic as your phone. Typically these giant companies aren't worried about the small-fry data users (talking insignificant here with a chromecast).
Xenosis said:
That's what's great about using screen cast. The chromecast won't actually be pulling data from the hotspot. It's somehow piggybacking on the devices hotspot wifi network subnet and just pushing data directly to the chromecast. Your phone will authentically be pulling any stream data from your data plan as it would normally.
ie the chromecast is just a receiver in this configuration. In terms of actually casting an app, I'm not even sure if that is possible so I don't think you'd even accidentally be having your chromecast use data.
There would be the small amount of chromecast traffic checking for an update or whatever it does idly and that would go out over your phones data.
To be safe I would recommend something like this: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.formichelli.tetheringfix&hl=en
I don't think they could force you to change plans but they could charge you for the additional hotspot service. A working tether fix should spoof any hotspot traffic as your phone. Typically these giant companies aren't worried about the small-fry data users (talking insignificant here with a chromecast).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Right...this method works for casting the screen and playing YouTube videos only. But if I want to use Netflix or Hulu, I have to cast it through the chromecast. When I try to simply mirror Netflix, I get the same black screen I get when using a regular miracast dongle. So the chromecast is using my data, but maybe it would be the same amount as if I was streaming Netflix directly on my phone.
And here is how I enabled tethering on an unlimited plant:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=wF2BZ2gx7r8
Not sure if this uses the same method as the app you referenced above, or if AT&T will notice.
ryan4a said:
Right...this method works for casting the screen and playing YouTube videos only. But if I want to use Netflix or Hulu, I have to cast it through the chromecast. When I try to simply mirror Netflix, I get the same black screen I get when using a regular miracast dongle. So the chromecast is using my data, but maybe it would be the same amount as if I was streaming Netflix directly on my phone.
And here is how I enabled tethering on an unlimited plant:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=wF2BZ2gx7r8
Not sure if this uses the same method as the app you referenced above, or if AT&T will notice.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hmm.. That is too bad. I have the same miracast problem with Netflix but chromecast always worked for screen casting (whole OS) and normal app-based casting.
Hi guys,
Is it just me, or is the Chromecast about the most ridiculous device ever made ?
It does not only need a Wi-Fi connection (which is normal : the wireless signal has to come from somewhere) but it also needs an internet connection.
I would like to cast the screen of my smartphone when I'm not at home.
So I got me a wireless router.
I activate it.
The Chromecast can connect to it.
The Smartphone can connect to it.
And so the smartphone can connect to the Chromecast.
But that's it...
I can't cast anything because I have no internet connection.
OK.
So I turned on my phone as an access point.
I then configured the travel router to get the internet connection from the phone.
Cool... now the Chromecast says it's ready to cast.
But now I'm stuck because as soon as I want to cast something from my phone to the Chromecast, I have to turn Wi-Fi on...
But turning on Wi-Fi on my phone disables the AP.
And so the Chromecast refuses to display anything because it's not connected to the internet anymore !
Isn't that about the most stupid thing ever designed ?
Frankly, I then see only really little use to it...
And I think I am not the only one : there are about 10 apps that are Cast capable...
And that after more than a year the dongle has been released !
Will look for something that is able to cast without an internet connection.
Will probably be much easier... and maybe even cheaper !
If you have an advice on how to get this POS to work without an internet connection, I'll gladly take your advice.
If that is not easily achieved, if you have an alternative, I'll gladly consider it...
regards.
What are you trying to send to your Chromecast? Netflix, YouTube, and other services that have the cast button basically act as remote controls for the Chromecast, but it needs its own Internet connection to stream the content as your phone is just inputting commands for it.
You could try (albeit I've never done this) connecting the Chromecast to your hotspot access point, and then just using the built-in screen mirroring feature of the Chromecast app. Granted, that would mean you'd have to leave your phone's screen on...but it would show the same thing that's on the phone, on the TV. And I'm not sure if that would even work since you still don't have WiFi on and your phone is acting as the modem and not as a device on the same network.
The only other things I could suggest, would be to buy additional hardware. You could go through your carrier to purchase one of those hotspot devices, then connect your phone and your Chromecast to that, and that will work. Though with that option you'll most likely have to pay an extra fee for the data line for the hotspot device. The other route you could take, would be to buy a cheap tablet or another phone and use it as the controller when your primary phone is in hotspot mode. The latter option is what my friend does as he uses his phone's unlimited data plan to provide Internet through his entire house when he's at home...and just uses his tablet to stream Netflix to the Chromecast.
If you have no internet connection, you'll be streaming everything over your mobile data connection anyway. That's going to get expensive, but whatever...
So why are you using the router if you can't get a wired or WiFi internet connection? Just turn on the WiFi access point mode on your phone, and have the Chromecast connect to it. Then both your phone and the Chromecast will be on the same LAN.
You even need an Internet connection when streaming local media because (1) the device has to constantly authenticate with Google, which I swear Google isn't going to be logging or abusing, and (b) the Chromecast is relatively stupid by streaming and spec standards, and you can't just give it a file and expect it to work.
That's why so many apps will take forever to load large pictures (slower than a picture CD) or even to unpause media... it throws its buffer away on pause.
Why not just try an HDMI cable? No WiFi needed, all local codecs are supported, etc.
I recommend you do basic research on a product before purchasing it next time. You should look into cheap miracast dongles.
I like my chromecast, but my android stick gets about 10x more usage. Chromecast seriously needs some more streaming services. If you don't have Netflix, in the UK it has about two widely used apps (youtube and iplayer), and that's it, not great this far on.
Ridiculous device ever made? Get yourself an internet connection for your house and then try the showbox app and allcast app to send the media to the Chromecast. I have 2 Chromecast in my house and I use it daily. If you simply want to cast your screen without internet. Get a slimport to HDMI cable.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
NexusPenguin said:
Is it just me, or is the Chromecast about the most ridiculous device ever made ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's just you... Everyone else have internet connection at home, which is normal these days...
Hi Srandista,
Yes, everyboby has an internet connection at home.
But then again, everybody probably also has :
- a Blu-Ray player with Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet ;
- a television that is Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Ethernet enabled ;
- a media player/streamer that is Ethernet and Wi-Fi enabled...
So we're saying the same thing :
- at home everyone has an internet connection AND connected devices => the Chromecast is useless ;
- when you're not at home, the Chromecast is useless until you're somewhere where you can get an internet connection...
And even then : if I want to cast a Video to my Chromecast, I have to upload my video to the cloud BEFORE I start to stream...
Isn't that ridiculous ? Especially as using other software allows to stream directly ?
Just for your information : there are other devices like the Chromecast (they even look like the Chromecast) that can be used without an internet connection.
Sorry, but despite your answer, I persist saying that the Chromecast conception lacks some common sense and some analysis of the customer needs.
Regards.
DJames1 said:
If you have no internet connection, you'll be streaming everything over your mobile data connection anyway. That's going to get expensive, but whatever...
So why are you using the router if you can't get a wired or WiFi internet connection? Just turn on the WiFi access point mode on your phone, and have the Chromecast connect to it. Then both your phone and the Chromecast will be on the same LAN.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Thanks for your answer.
But that won't work. As I wrote in my post : if I turn on my phone as an AP, that disables the Wi-Fi. So I can't stream to my Chromecast that way.
Regards.
xFuGiToiDx said:
Ridiculous device ever made? Get yourself an internet connection for your house and then try the showbox app and allcast app to send the media to the Chromecast. I have 2 Chromecast in my house and I use it daily. If you simply want to cast your screen without internet. Get a slimport to HDMI cable.
Sent from my Nexus 5 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi
Many thanks for your kind reply.
I would recommend you read posts before flaming people.
If you would have, you would have noticed that I was saying I was trying to use it WHEN I AM NOT at home.
I have a 100Mbps line at home. But also a networked TV, a networked Blu-Ray player and a networked Media player /streamer.
So I don't really have the use of a Chromecast at home...
Regards.
alton987 said:
I recommend you do basic research on a product before purchasing it next time. You should look into cheap miracast dongles.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
That is what I usually do.
BUT : honestly :
1°) the need for an active internet connection for the thing to even work does not appear clearly ;
2°) I don't spend 5 hours researching for a 35 bucks device... my time is somewhat more precious than that.
I'll look into cheap Miracast devices. I only need to mirror my screen, so I guess that more than enough.
Regards.
primetechv2 said:
You even need an Internet connection when streaming local media because (1) the device has to constantly authenticate with Google, which I swear Google isn't going to be logging or abusing, and (b) the Chromecast is relatively stupid by streaming and spec standards, and you can't just give it a file and expect it to work.
That's why so many apps will take forever to load large pictures (slower than a picture CD) or even to unpause media... it throws its buffer away on pause.
Why not just try an HDMI cable? No WiFi needed, all local codecs are supported, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi,
Thanks...
Yes, that's what I am doing right now. Phone with a MHL adpator and HDMI plugged into the projector.
But that implies that I have a cable lying around my class and me or my student are likely to stumble on it...
That is why I wanted to use the Chromecast...
Regards.
Hi,
OK, to make things clear, here's what I would like to do.
I am a teacher.
During my class I pass .ppt slides on a VP.
During my class, I don't sit behind my desk : I walk among the students.
So what I would like to do is following :
- 1°) connect my phone to the VP with the Chromecast ;
- 2°) have my phone displaying the slides => a simple mirror of the screen will do ;
- 3°) use a tablet in "Presentation mode" as a remote for the phone so I can go the next slide when I want to.
I can achieve everything using a MHL adaptor to connect the phone to the VP.
But I would like to be able to make that wirelessly...
Chromecast is a no go... unless of course I add another device in the whole bunch : smartphone + 2 tablets. Phone as access point, tablet 1 as caster ; tablet 2 as remote. then of course, I will need some chargers, an external battery pack... Not really the simplification I was looking for.
Regards.
Goodness, the supporters of Google Cast are rather quick to throw down the gauntlet today. =( As somebody who is constantly critiquing devices, I can say with certainty that there are many things that even reading reviews will not disclose, and even if the information is available, it might be hard to find.
Telling somebody they should get internet access in the snobbish manner seen here really doesn't help matters at all either.... less bile equals a greater percentage of useful content, right? Talking about MHL or Miracast or discussing manufacturer specific options or suggesting different CC compatible devices (Matchstick anyone? It's coming in 2015) might be more helpful.
For example, as it stands, I can't believe using a phone as a Wi-Fi hotspot would knock out its data functionality... or at least that it would make it impossible to connect to a CC. That seems like a fundamental problem there.
Here is the best possible solution for you nexus....
You will have to give up on the Phone showing the slides because you are attempting to stream to two devices which doesn't work.
You really shouldn't need the phone to display...
Plug the CCast into the Projector....
Turn on the Hotspot feature of your phone, It will still get it's data and email and tweets ect ect ....
Set up the CCast to get it's internet from the Phone WiFi Hotspot and then connect the tablet to the Hotspot as well.
You should then be able to cast the screen of the tablet to the Projector and run your slideshow.
You might even be able to use some other powerpoint viewer app that supports CCast (I think VBU kit does that) but you can just as easily screen cast the tablet to the projector if your tablet supports it.
You should be good to go the only thing that you will be missing is the display of the slides on the phone and since you are manipulating the slides on the tablet there really is no reason to see them on the phone as well.
I was pretty much going to recommend a similar fix. I have an old crap phone with no data plan that I play movies on while traveling. I just setup my actual phone as the hotspot and have my crap phone and CC connect to it. I have heard :? that the app that shall remain nameless thing works pretty good. I use Avia to throw those shows to my CC.
ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ
hell yeah!
NexusPenguin said:
Hi Srandista,
But then again, everybody probably also has :
- a Blu-Ray player with Wi-Fi and/or Ethernet ;
- a television that is Bluetooth, Wi-Fi and Ethernet enabled ;
- a media player/streamer that is Ethernet and Wi-Fi enabled...
.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I love my Chromecast. Prior to buying it, I had:
- A Blu-Ray player with internet connectivity... with a slow, horrible interface, and poor streaming services support.... that also didn't stream from local devices.
- An HDTV with no network support
- A "media player" that didn't work with most/any of the pay-for streaming services, that I had to constantly troubleshoot, with a low Wife Acceptance Factor.
With the Chromecast I can stream locally (from a Plex Server), watch most of the pay-for streaming services I want (so I can "cut the cord"), and it "just works" as far as the Wife is concerned, so she's happy. Even my kiddos can use it. Given that the Chromecast remains the top seller in the Electronics category at Amazon, I think Google hit the nail on the head with this one. Far from a "stupid", "useless", "ridiculous", concept that "lacks some common sense and some analysis of the customer needs" that results in the "worst experience ever".
Just because you're pissed that the square peg you bought won't fit in a round hole doesn't mean the device is stupid or useless. It's like the saying goes that "When all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail". Go get yourself a screwdriver, because you have the wrong tool for your particular job. I mentioned Plex once already: If you're looking for a simple, offline streaming experience with that works like the Chromecast does get yourself a Raspberry Pi, and install RaspPlex on it. If you're trying to playback from a local disk, put XBMC on it instead. I plan on putting a media center in my kid-hauler, and one of these two will probably end up being what I use. There are many options out there for offline playback, but the Chromecast it not one of them.
Well said. I have two chromecast and they are exactly what I need. Very useful.
Sent from my SM-N910V using XDA Free mobile app
I currently run a restaurant and I have a few TVs in the store. I'd like to have a dongle in the HDMI port and automatically load a webpage. The webpage will have half the screen to play a set of videos and the other half static text/image advertisements. I have several questions if and how Chromecast can even do this:
1) Is there a way to make Chromecast automatically load my webpage whenever it is plugged in? (please kindly describe what I'd need to do to achieve this...eg. rooting/installing custom rom?)
2) If 1) is not possible, can I just use my laptop, send the Chromecast to my webpage once, and leave the Chromecast on forever (like for months) with the TV. I am assuming I need to make a Custom Receiver App/Page so that it does not disconnect when my Sender is disconnected?
3) If there is another Dongle (please provide model) that can get this done easier.
Thanks!!!
Hello.
What I want?
I want to be able to stream my PC/laptop desktop. I want to have few installations like that in one wifi network( 3x Chromecast + 3x projectors)
Laptop--> Chrome+Gogle Cast Beta(extension)-->Chromecast-->Projector
I can do it and it works but.... any one who connects to same wifi network can disconnect me and overtake projector streaming.
Question:
Is there any option to secure connection to specific chromecast? For example pin code displayed on specific projector view which I must type or any other option to lock specific chromecast with specific laptop/desktop.
Thank you for any idea/information.
Best Regards.
Anyone can not take over unless they have gone through the setup process. If I was to come over, I can't access your Chromecast. I can use the guest option (which you can turn off in the settings) to stream certain apps for a limited time. It doesn't give access to the settings.
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