My Chromecast arrived

[Grauniad]

More later.



Not sure why my browser adds a "#netflix" anchor tag to the above URL.

I now have 2 mode HDMI-capable devices to plug into my TV than my TV has ports for.

[thepenguin]

I've heard that the setup is confusing and the quality is bad.

It seems to be good for watching youtube videos, but I don't think I'd try to watch an entire movie with it.

I don't have one, so I'd be interested to hear how it goes.

[MadMag]

CheapCast :)

Check it out.

[Grauniad]

It was simple to install, but it needs wireless network and the signal in that location is weak, (which is why most other devices there has an Ethernet connection) so now I have to figure out a way to boost the WiFi signal.

Other than that, my initial tests were that it was interesting - if I needed a 5th way to stream Netflix of Google Play. Streaming YouTube? Meh.

[MizInIA]

It was simple to install, but it needs wireless network and the signal in that location is weak, (which is why most other devices there has an Ethernet connection) so now I have to figure out a way to boost the WiFi signal.

I have a Linksys RE1000 and they work Great.
http://store.linksys.com/products/cisco-linksys-range-extenders_stcVVcatId554677VVviewcat.htm

[Grauniad]

I have a Linksys RE1000 and they work Great.
http://store.linksys.com/products/cisco-linksys-range-extenders_stcVVcatId554677VVviewcat.htm

I don't like range extenders. My thinking is that they add a lot to signal noise. Every signal passes through them adds 4x to the radio traffic on that band. In addition, they usually amplify a weak signal, so the quality is poor to start with and since they present a strong signal, they hide the underlying fact that their connection upstream is not of the best.

My usual solution is to install a WiFi router connected to an Ethernet cable that I set up as a wireless Access Point. I can then have that use a different channel, but the same SSID, giving better and denser WiFi coverage.

I did have a small Zuni Digital ZR301F router in that location, but it seems unreliable and we had connectivity problems. I'm looking at the Newegg deals today that has a refurb Linksys this afternoon. If the price is right, I may buy it.

My bigger concern is that my main router, the Verizon FIOS connection is getting overloaded. I've had to reboot it a few times this summer whereas I've not had to mess with it for a few years. A new, faster and bigger FIOS router will run me $80. :(

[MizInIA]

while I would generally agree that range extenders are not ideal they do a good job where hard wires cannot be run. Mine bounces the signal down a cinder block hall way. I can't bore holes and laying an ethernet cable along the wall is not acceptable. I don't have a need for online gaming just reasonable internet access and maybe some youtube.