Spark’s RWC streaming warning

Those planning on using a HDMI cable when streaming the Rugby World Cup could find themselves staring at a blank screen come kickoff next month.

Spark can’t guarantee all HDMI cables will work when making a direct connection between a computer or phone and television, meaning fans planning to use the method are being urged to check their cable works in advance.

A Spark spokeswoman told Stuff they expected most cables would work, but ‘‘as with all customers, we definitely recommend you test your set-up in advance of the tournament.’’

‘‘For instance, using a HDMI cable to connect a mobile phone to a screen won’t work, but using a HDMI cable to connect a laptop to a screen or TV generally will. ‘‘Testing in advance is the best way to guarantee a great experience on game day.’’

The issue is partly why Spark, who in April last year – along with TVNZ – announced they had won the rights to broadcast the tournament in Japan, don’t list HDMI cables on their help site as an option to connect a device to a television.

‘‘We know that they will be an easy option for some people, but they won’t work in all instances,’’ the Spark spokeswoman said.

There is no way of knowing if a particular cable will work until it has been tested, hence why Spark is urging users who plan to use a HDMI cable to test it on their system before the tournament kicks off on September 20.

Spark is streaming archive footage, player interviews, replays, and the All Blacks squad naming (live) Wednesday week in the lead-up to the tournament.

There are alternative ways of streaming the action on the big screen, including if you’ve got a selected smart TV, or Apple TV (HDMI connection between Apple TV and TV is sure to work).

Those without either, can make a wireless connection between their laptop, tablet, or smart phone and TV by using a Chromecast device (about $60), which plugs into a HDMI port.

With the one-month countdown to kickoff reached, Spark is also urging people who have purchased the Rugby World Cup pass to test their internet connection is up to scratch.

"Whether you are familiar with using the likes of Netflix or Lightbox – or whether you’ve never streamed before – the best way to ensure you get a good experience on the night is to watch some sport in advance,’’ the head of Spark Sport, Jeff Latch, said.

You will require a broadband (fibre, copper or wireless) internet connection with a download speed of 15 megabits per second, which Spark recommends to stream high definition (HD) content.