DIY Smart Home Tips
Google's Chromecast can transform an otherwise dumb tv into a sophisticated smart entertainment center. The tiny dongle gives you access to numerous entertainment apps such as Netflix, YouTube, Spotify etc. thus saving you the trouble of purchasing an expensive smart tv. What's more, you can control your tv using a smartphone with Chromecast paired. Would you like to learn how to turn on tv using Chromecast?
What Do I Need to Turn My Tv On with Chromecast?
Not all Chromecast devices support turning your tv on or off. Also, some tv models may not have the required features to allow this level of control from a Chromecast device.
Here are some of the things you'll need in order to allow Chromecast to control your tv set:
A modern TV- At least 2010 or newer- Your tv should a feature called HDMI-CEC to enable control over HDMI via Chromecast. HDMI-CEC is usually branded differently depending on the manufacturer, e.g. AnyNet+ for Samsung TV's T-Link for TCL, Bravia Sync for Sony etc.
Most televisions sets sold after 2010 have this feature. You can refer to the user manual and find out if it's available on your tv before attempting the installation. Those with SHIELD Tv set-top boxes can also use them to control the same way as described here.
You need a Chromecast device- Ultra or normal with google cast version 1.3 or higher. As mentioned earlier, not all Chromecast devices can be used to turn the tv on or off. Older Chromecast devices without a standby power outlet will not work.
A Chromecast USB C or micro-USB charger- the one you plug into the wall as opposed to the tv.
An Active WIFI connection- both your tv and smartphone should be connected to the same WIFI connection. The same goes for a Google Home speaker/hub should you choose to use to control your Chromecast using voice commands.
Google Home app to control your Chromecast or Chromecast remote. You can also link your Chromecast device to Google Home and use Google voice commands to turn on your tv.
How to Turn on Tv Using Chromecast- Setup Guide
With the requirements out of the way, you can now set your Chromecast device to be able to turn your tv on and off. We'll assume that you have already set up your Chromecast device on your tv using the Google app and already casting content. If you haven't done the initial setup, follow these Chromecast initial configuration guidelines from Google or what is contained in the user manual that came with the Chromecast.
Step 1- Power Your Chromecast
The first thing you need to do is to connect your Chromecast device to the mains (power socket or extension cable) using the micro-USB or USB-C charger. The reason why you should do this is to allow the Chromecast to always be on standby even when the tv is off. Powering it via the USB cable connected to the tv may not work.
Some Tv's do support power over USB even when they are turned off. You can check if this is the case by looking at the light indicator on the Chromecast when you manually turn off your tv.
Step 2- Enable HDMI-CEC On Your TV
The second and perhaps most important step in this process involves enabling the power over HDMI or HDMI-CEC in the tv settings. Depending on the brand of tv you are using, find a setting that allows you to turn this feature off. For instance, if you own a Samsung TV, navigate to settings> Applications and find a setting labelled AnyNet +(HDMI-CEC) and enable it. Feel free to refer to the tv's user manual to see where HDMI-CEC is located.
Step 3- Connect Chromecast
We are assuming that you have already configured Chromecast for typical casting and streaming on your tv. The last step in this process does not require any additional configurations. Connect your Chromecast device to your TV via HDMI and ensure that it's powered and ready to receive commands. Also, ensure that the shared WIFI connection is turned on and active.
Turn Your Tv On and Off with Chromecast
With everything set up, all you need is to cast something from your Google Home app when the tv is on to test. If everything went well, your tv should turn on the moment you initiate a cast from Chromecast. You can also use the Google Home app to turn the TV off in the app menu. Just locate the TV in the list of devices and turn it off.
However, an easier and more intuitive method is to link your Chromecast to Google Home and use it to turn the TV on and off using voice commands.
