Intel WiDi is a driver responsible for the operation of the technology of the same name. It, in turn, serves to broadcast content from the memory of a computer or laptop to a TV screen or monitor that supports Intel Wireless Display. The application also allows you to display a "picture" on the screen of some portable Android devices... We draw your attention to the fact that in the latest versions operating system from Microsfoft - Windows 7, Windows 8 and 10 this technology has been superseded by another software solution- which is installed on the system by default.
Appointment
Intel WiDi eliminates the need for external storage to organize the playback of a movie or presentation on a TV and projector. Also, this technology saves you from using VGA and HDMI cables because the image is transmitted through a dot Wi-Fi access... In general, by downloading and installing this driver, you will greatly simplify the transfer of data to a remote device.
The concept of Wireless Display is a bit like DLNA technology... The key difference from the second is that deploying a DLNA server on a computer allows you to broadcast only separate files, while Intel WiDi provides the ability to turn a remote output device into a "second monitor". Simply put, it is much more expedient to use this technology for presentations.
Requirements
The main condition for the correct operation of Wireless Display is the presence of a built-in or connected WiDi adapter in the output device. In addition, both devices must be connected to a single wireless access point. Well, the last fact that needs to be taken into account is that the technology does not work with any CPU. Moreover, compatibility problems arise precisely with new processor models.
Key features
- broadcasting images from a PC / laptop to a compatible projector, TV or Android device;
- works through a single Wi-Fi access point;
- quick installation and customization;
- high quality of the broadcast image;
- compatibility issues with newer CPU models.
In the Intel blog, we have already written about Intel WiDi technology a number of times. A year ago it was dedicated to it, then we work WiDi in the MegaFon Mint communicator, finally, quite recently, it flashed in ours. However, we felt that among all this information there was a lack of personal and exhaustive testing of WiDi to examine its features, merits and demerits. Therefore, as soon as the WiDi adapter Netgear Push2TV HD fell into our very skilled hands, we understood: the moment had come. For a week, I tested technology and hardware in my homemade laboratory at home, combining business with pleasure. Let me report on the results obtained, the found nuances and bugoffs.
Selection of compatible hardware
WiDi technology belongs to the category of hardware dependent, for its operation requires the fulfillment of a number of requirements. Briefly, these requirements can be formulated as follows:- CPU Intel Core i3 / i5 / i7 second or third generation (not any, see below);
- Graphics subsystem Intel HD Graphics, as we know, built into the above processors;
- Wi-Fi adapter Intel Centrino with 802.11n support.
The list of compatible equipment is constantly expanding, we recommend that you carefully study it if you want to deal with WiDi. Your humble servant took this rake with his own hand, choosing an ultrabook for tests - it turned out to be noble and handsome, but had an incompatible Wi-Fi adapter. Everything turned out only on the second try, that is, the second ultrabook. Its characteristics, in principle, do not matter, I can only say that it uses the third generation Intel platform; installed OS - Windows 8.
By the way, I want to note in passing that for the first time Intel software immediately after starting the installer honestly warned that WiDi would not work on this ultrabook and refused to install it further, which saved my time and nerves. The same approach is implemented in other hardware-dependent technologies, for example,.
Netgear Push2TV HD Box
So, we figured out the ultrabook, now let's look at the reverse side of WiDi, that is, the receiver. There are a number of monitors and TVs with built-in WiDi, notably a line of combo devices from Samsung, a range of TVs and Toshiba TVs, and in addition some media players and game consoles. However, most TVs do not have WiDi or Wi-Fi and require a set-top box to be purchased. There are also several types of set-top boxes: from D-Link, Belkin and other manufacturers. In our testing we used the Netgear Push2TV HD adapter; there is a feeling that all of the following will apply to other consoles.
Installation and configuration
It makes sense to start acquaintance with the technology from the WiDi home page on the Intel website - reading it, no doubt, will be useful for further research. Unfortunately, the most helpful information, namely, where to get the WiDi software, it is absent, but I will tell you. The second step is to go to the download section of the Intel website, where you can very easily update the drivers responsible for the WiDi operation - take my word for it, it will not be superfluous. There we will also find directly the WiDi software. To facilitate the use of WiDi, there is a special widget, although you can do without it.
Updating the software on the WiDi adapter
Installing WiDi software is quick and uninteresting - literally, there is nothing to take a screenshot from. But the first launch I did not do without light dancing, although again it did not come to the jew's harp, given to me by Intel in due time. So, the set-top box is turned on and connected to the TV via the HDMI port (besides it, it also has a component port). We start scanning adapters on the ultrabook and almost immediately find ours. We press "connect" and ... do not connect. The process aborted several times at various stages with various errors, until finally it was not possible to somehow connect the two adapters. Immediately after that, the software update of the set-top box began. The prefix itself does not have an Internet connection, so the idea of updating via an ultrabook seems sensible. Note that the ultrabook was not connected to the Internet at that time, which means that the update is contained in the WiDi software. After the update, the set-top box rebooted, and there were no more problems with pairing.
Password entry when pairing
The newly turned on set-top box is in a connection standby state - the standby screen is shown in the first picture. In the process of establishing a connection after a successful initialization, a random number-password is displayed on the TV, which must be entered on the ultrabook. Following this, an image of the desktop appears on the TV. The Wireless Display is a full-fledged second display that, like a wired second, can operate in two modes: cloning and expanding. Intel software recommends using the second option. The TV resolution was automatically set to 1080p in both modes.
Functionality testing
After light adventures with the setup, I started directly testing. Several films were selected as media content, both in HD and in lower resolutions. The viewing experience can be expressed as follows. The video of non-HD resolution goes just "with a bang", literally a couple of times traces of some digital interference were noticed. When watching high-definition video, sometimes you can see a barely noticeable twitching of the picture, most often - when the camera is rotated smoothly. Well, I have seen the same effect when the TV is connected to DLNA server via Wi-Fi; I myself preferred to use the wire the old way.
TV asks for DLNA connection
Speaking of DLNA. Ultrabook software can work in what I would call "WiDi without WiDi" when the TV does not need a WiDi set-top box; he receives a picture from an ultrabook via DLNA. In the documentation, the developers honestly warn that this mode does not work with all DLNA clients, but my Samsung 5300 TV connected without problems. However, there are not very many benefits from such "emulation": the picture quality is much worse, HD resolution is not supported and in general everything slows down. In addition, due to the DLNA habit of caching content, the TV connected in this way cannot be used as a monitor, since the mouse refuses to crawl in real time.
The connection to the set-top box is established. Left - WiDi widget
The Wi-Di widget has two functions. Firstly, it allows you to connect a Wireless Display with one click, the connection to which has already been configured once and in the properties of which it is indicated "connect automatically". Secondly, in extended monitor mode, the widget allows you to switch the application from one monitor to another. The thing, in principle, is good, if not for the limitations in functionality that I do not understand. For example, it can move some applications between screens, and some not; on what basis the choice is made, I could not establish. After suffering a little, I switched to " manual control”Windows and quickly got used to it.
From intense using Wi-Fi when watching movies on an ultrabook, the battery is quickly discharged: if in normal office mode it works for 5-6 hours, then there is barely enough charge for a movie. This, of course, can hardly be called a drawback. In general, no real, conspicuous flaws in the technology have been identified. The connection (at a short distance, of course) was stable, and no software glitches were noticed either. In my opinion, WiDi is quite suitable as an alternative to DLNA, having even an advantage over the latter in the form of versatility: WiDi is completely indifferent to what is delivered to a remote display, and besides, there is no need for transcoding. There is every reason to believe that in the near future Wi-Fi will settle in all TV receivers without exception, and not only in top models, as it is now. Then WiDi may have a second wind, especially if the family of devices capable of transmitting a picture to the Wireless Display expands in a fundamental way.
In this article we will get acquainted with an interesting technology from the processor giant Intel - Wireless Display, or WiDi. The name clearly has a hint of such a familiar abbreviation as Wi-Fi, in connection with which there is an erroneous spelling - Intel Wifi Display. Indeed, here we are also dealing with wireless data transmission, but Intel offers us something else - broadcasting a video signal from a laptop under Windows control on the monitor or TV screen.
Indeed, it is very convenient to do without cables stretching across the floor to the place where you decide to sit with your laptop. Unfortunately, there are hardware limitations for using the technology; not all equipment is compatible with it. The requirements listed on the Intel website are as follows:
- Core processor on the core Ivy bridge and higher with built-in video core;
- Intel Wi-Fi adapter Centrino with support for 802.11n.
- Windows 7 Home Basic or higher with Intel WiDi software installed.
If your laptop has an external graphics adapter, you will have to switch to Intel HD Graphics to use Wireless Display. If it is disabled by the manufacturer, the technology cannot be tested.
On the this moment WiDi allows you to play video of Blue-Ray quality, in 2015 the manufacturer promises to add the ability to transfer to a 4K screen, for which you will need Core processor 5th generation based on Broadwell microarchitecture.
On the part of the image output device, there are also certain requirements, but if it does not have built-in Wi-Fi, then you can simply purchase a specialized set-top box. It is connected with an HDMI cable and allows you to use any TV or monitor equipped with this connector.
Installing the "wireless monitor"
Here is an approximate algorithm for setting up a WiDi connection between a laptop and a TV using D-Link adapter DHD-131.
After connecting it to your TV and installing the software on your computer, you can start pairing.
On the TV, you should select the set-top box as the signal source, after which the image will look something like this:
If necessary, the firmware of the set-top box will be updated, since it itself does not have an Internet connection. This is how the WiDi window looks with an active connection:
During operation, there will be a slight delay in mouse movements relative to the cable connection, but when watching videos or photos, there is no discomfort.
Besides laptops, using WiDi also available on Windows tablets on Intel based Centrino, as well as on devices that support DLNA wireless transmission, such as the Sony PlayStation 3.
Unfortunately, the following restrictions apply when using Wireless Display over DLNA
- WiDi software version - from 3.5.x, but not higher than 4.2.x.
- Cannot send secure data, 1080p video, or surround sound.
Comparison of WiDi and Miracast
Miracast technology enables video transmission over Wi-Fi for devices running Android 4.2 and above, certified by the owner brand according to the "Wi-Fi Display test plan" program. Wireless Display is compatible with Miracast starting from software version 3.5, but has several noticeable advantages over it, enshrined in the standard:
- Support for video playback up to 1080p (Miracast only mandates these requirements, but does not guarantee them);
- HDCP content protection support;
- the list of video modes is supplemented with advanced and multitasking.
Let us dwell on the last point in more detail. In multitasking mode, the video player sends an image to an external screen, while the screen of the mobile device itself remains available for use for normal tasks - browsing the Internet, making calls, playing games, etc.
Business Application
The entire family of Wi-Fi Display technologies is very attractive and promising for business use. The ability to withdraw to big screen presentations, charts, video calls and much more will definitely be in demand in a corporate environment. Intel is providing an extension of its technology called Intel Pro WiDi. Among its features, the following qualities are emphasized.
But the cable is not always convenient to lay, thanks to the cable you are "tied" to the place and cannot move freely. There are technologies that will allow you to wirelessly display the screen of a laptop, netbook or tablet on a TV, one of these technologies is WiDi.
WiDi (Intel Wireless Display) - wireless transmission content from a mobile device (laptop, ultrabook, tablet) to a TV (Smart TV), developed by Intel. The technology is based on Wi-Fi standard... (Wikipedia).
In order to be able to connect your TV to a laptop / ultrabook / tablet using WiDi, it is necessary that each of the devices support this technology. No additional equipment (routers, routers, access points, etc.) is needed.
In order to understand whether your WiDi TV supports or not, you need to read its technical capabilities, it's easier to do all this by going to the TV manufacturer's website, find your model and get acquainted with the technical characteristics.
To understand whether your laptop / ultrabook or tablet supports WiDi technology, it is necessary that it meet the requirements for WiDi , namely:
| Conditions | Intel® WiDi | Intel® Pro WiDi |
| Operating system | Windows 7, Windows 8 / 8.1 (Windows 10) | |
| CPU | - 2,3,4,5 Intel generation® Core ™ i3 / i5 / i7 |
4th Generation Intel® Core ™ Mobile and Desktop Processors with Intel® vPro Technology |
| Graphics | Intel® Iris ™ Graphics 5100 Intel® HD Graphics 5000, 4600, 4400, 4200, 4000, 3000 (mobile), 2500, 2000 (mobile) |
Intel® Iris ™ Pro Graphics 5200 Intel® Iris ™ Graphics 5100 Intel® HD Graphics 5500, 5000, 4600, 4400 |
| Wifi cards |
Centrino® Wireless-N 1000, 1030, 2200,2230 BCM43228 |
Intel® Dual Band Wireless-AC 3160 Intel® Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 Intel® Dual Band Wireless-N 7260 Intel® Dual Band Wireless-AC 7265 Intel® Dual Band Wireless-N 7265 |
For what to see which processor, wireless adapter and the graphics are used by you, I recommend reading the article -.
If your mobile device meets the requirements and the TV supports WiDi, you can establish a WiDi connection.
Turn on WiDi on the TV.
In this example, a TV will be used. Lg with WebOs, enabling this feature on other TVs ( Samsung, Philips, Sony, Toshiba etc.) will proceed by analogy.
Open the Smart Apps menu, to do this:
On a standard remote, press the "Smart" button.
On the Magic Remote, press the "Home" button
Then open the full application menu.
Select "Screen Share".
Thus, you have turned on the WiDi function on the TV.
Enabling WiDi on a laptop, ultrabook, tablet.
In order to use WiDi technology on a laptop, ultrabook, tablet, you need to install the appropriate software. This requires download the program for WiDi .
For Intel WiDi download Software Intel® Wireless Display for Windows, for Intel Pro WiDi - Intel® Pro WiDi for Windows.
Installing the software for WiDi is extremely simple and boils down to clicking the "Next" button and agreeing to the license agreement.
After installation, a shortcut will appear on the desktop Intel (R) WiDi.
Launch the Intel (R) WiDi application. When turned on, it automatically scans for the presence of wireless displays and, upon finding it, will offer to connect.
After the connection is agreed, numbers will appear on the TV, which must be entered on a laptop, ultrabook, tablet in the Intel WiDi program. Then the connection will be made within a few seconds. As a result, everything that you see on the screen of the mobile device will be displayed on the TV.
In addition to mirroring the image, the TV can be used as a second screen. To do this, press the "Win" + "P" key and select "Extend" (suitable for Windows8 / 8.1, for Windows 7 follow the steps described below). Thanks to WiDi technology, your TV becomes a full-fledged monitor, you can change the resolution, screen orientation, etc. on it. To do this, right-click on the desktop, select " Screen resolution"or go "Control Panel" - "Screen" - "Screen Resolution Setting".
In the window that opens, you can change the screen resolution, both on a laptop, ultrabook and on a TV, choose to expand or duplicate the image, change the screen orientation.
To disable the WiDi connection, in the Intel WiDi application on the corresponding wireless display, click "Disable".
Overall impression of WiDi.
WiDi is a great way to get rid of some of the wires in an apartment / house, in addition to wireless connection displaying a screen from a laptop, ultrabook, tablet on a TV, it can act as a second monitor, which allows several people to use one laptop, ultrabook at once. For example, by expanding the screen, you can turn on a movie / presentation / photo on the TV, and at this time on a laptop, ultrabook, surf the Internet, play a game, etc.
But this method of wireless connection has drawbacks, since this Intel development, it has firmly connected this technology with its products and this technology can be used only on a limited number of laptops, ultrabooks and tablets. WiDi is also not suitable for demanding games, since the processing power is relatively scarce, plus there is a noticeable delay in displaying video on a mobile device and TV. It is a fraction of a second and will not prevent you from watching videos, photos, presentations, but it is critical for action games where instant reaction is required.
In my opinion, WiDi technology is a very good solution for a wireless connection, and it is ideal for most tasks.
Pros of using WiDi:
1 Allows you to wirelessly connect mobile devices to the TV;
2 Supports a high resolution FullHD (4K support coming soon) + 5.1 sound;
3 It is possible to expand the screen (use the TV as a second monitor).
Cons of using WiDi:
1 Not every device supports WiDi technology (applies to both laptops, ultrabooks, tablets and TVs);
2 Delay in a split second on the TV screen.
Video of connecting laptop to TV using WiDi.
Wireless technology is the future longed for by many of today's users. electronic devices... Despite the rapid development of technologies, including wireless, getting rid of wires completely remains an unattainable dream. But, this is only at first glance!
Few are aware of a technology developed by Intel called Wireless Display. Most often it is mentioned in an abbreviated form - WiDi. It is a hardware-dependent technology that allows you to transfer not only media content (like DLNA), but also image and sound to an additional screen: Smart TV, home theater, second monitor and projector.
Description of the program and features
Intel WiDi acts as a second monitor, or more precisely, a second wireless monitor. This is a very useful and practical feature, since the monitor screen and sound system A PC or laptop often plays out on modern TVs and home theaters. Both in terms of color rendition, diagonal size, and sound quality.
The use of WiDi technology allows you to successfully combine the performance of a PC with the quality of home entertainment multimedia centers. And there is no need to spend additional funds for the purchase of expensive Blu-ray players, as well as additional set-top boxes and computers for the living room.
Intel WiDi technology is hardware-based and therefore requires WiFi module with integrated Intel processor Centrino. Special program comes in the kit; it is easy to set up and quickly syncs with the devices you want.
Intel Wireless Display Features:
- stylish, comfortable and clear interface in Russian;
- support for 32/64-bit versions of Windows;
- a large number of advanced settings;
- the highest degree of signal privacy protection;
- perfect picture and sound quality.
How to download for free to your computer?
You can download the Intel WiDi program on a PC for free, as well as without SMS and without viruses. To do this, you need to use the direct link to download the program, available to everyone and without registration!
