Locating an Optimal Spot
Before installing your flat screen TV, it is crucial to know precisely where you want to install it. You should identify where your cable port is in your home or apartment. The closer your TV is to your cable outlet, the less wire you will have stretching through your home (assuming you choose to not run the chord through the wall). In addition, make sure that the TV will be easily viewed by all parties.
Installation Options
The easiest method is to buy a stand. These stands come in various designs. Simply take the TV and place it on the stand. This is the best option for those with little to no building skills. The more space-saving method, though, is the wall mount. This is where the TV hangs on the wall, much like a picture or a painting. There are several types of mounts you can purchase, whether it is a standard mount, a tilting mount or a articulated swivel-arm mount. You can also choose to hang your TV from the ceiling using a ceiling mount.
Mount Options
The three various mounts you can use to attach your TV to the wall all offer different benefits. The standard mount is stationary, meaning you will not be able to move your TV from side to side once installed. This mount is the easiest to install. The tilting wall mount tilts the TV forward. This is perfect for watching TV in bed or if mounting a TV in a high location. Finally, the swivel-arm mount provides the most viewing flexibility, but can be the most challenging to install. This mount allows a full range of motion for the TV.
Installing
Regardless of whatever mount you choose, installing a flat screen TV requires at least two people. The first will need to operate the tools, such as drilling the mounts into the wall, while the second person will need to support the TV when actually mounting the device. It is important to also have a level on hand to ensure that the TV is being mounted completely horizontally. A stud finder is ideal too to ensure you are mounting the TV into a stud.
To mount your TV, affix the wall mounts into the wall, ensuring they are level, then hang the TV on the mounts, locating the proper spot on the TV for mounting. If you cannot find the appropriate mounting areas on the back of your TV, consult your TV's manual.
Safety Tips
If you are mounting your TV in a high location, be sure to use an appropriately sized ladder. Also, take caution when handling tools such as electric drills and screwdrivers. And always have someone on hand to help you, especially when actually hanging the TV.
Tags: high location, into wall, mounts into, mounts into wall, standard mount, swivel-arm mount, This mount
