1. LCD TV display panels are fewer that 4 inches deep, allowing for several mounting options. Options range from the standard tabletop stand, pedestal stands, space-saving tilting wall-mounts, and ceiling mounts.
2. Many TV mounts may not be compatible with certain LCD TV brands. Before selecting an LCD TV mount, consider mounting surface, weight of TV screen, available space, the amount of space necessary for desired movement, and elevation.
3. Universally compatible TV mounts can attach to most TV screens. LCD TVs that are VESA-compatible meet the industry standards for compatibility; TVs that are not VESA-compatible may require an adapter.
4. VESA mounting standards include 50, 75, 100, and 200, indicating the hold pattern in millimeters for different screen sizes. The number indicates the size of the area where the four mounting holes are located, with the exception of 200, which has a 200x200 or a 200x100 hold pattern.
5. TV mounts that have a high range of movement may be a tradeoff for the weight capacities that they can handle. Before mounting your LCD TV, check weight limits to determine whether you will need more than one mounting source and whether mounting hardware must be placed into studs or ceiling beams.
6. Fixed brackets are the least expensive TV mounts. Since they simply hold the TV flush to the wall, access to the rear of the TV can be difficult. Tilt brackets allow the screen to change vertical viewing angles and to swivel horizontally from side to side.
7. When determining where to mount your LCD TV, keep in mind that the distance between the seating area and the placement of the screen should be about 1.5 times the width of the screen, and the center of the screen should be at eye level. Before drilling unnecessary holes, hang a framed picture and view from the seating area to determines the necessary height adjustments.
8. When the TV cannot be mounted to the wall, ceiling arm mounts keep screens out of high-traffic areas, and some have options to raise and lower manually or electronically. Some features to consider in LCD TV ceiling mounts are tension adjustments for variable tilt, locking pins for precise positioning, S-bend pipes for precise weight distribution, and anti-theft security.
9. It is important that a large mounted LCD screen ties in and balances with the room. Try a deep, warm wall color to minimize the contrast between wall and TV; consider a frame placed around the screen or give the screen a built-in look by strategic placement of designer shelves to soften the effects.
10. Floor stand mounts offer more security for your TV than traditional TV stands, and many have shelf space for components and accessories. TVs are fastened to the floor stand mounts so that the TV will not fall if the kids are roughhousing and bump into the TV or the stand.
