Flat panel TVs have all but taken over the home theater market. With their slim profile, competitive price and fabulous picture quality, it's easy to see why they have surpassed their bulky predecessors. Their size allows them to be mounted in a variety of ways, from bedroom walls and home theaters to simple tabletop setups. Depending on the method you choose, properly mounting a TV takes some planning and work.
Wall mounts
Mounting your flat panel on a wall can contribute positively to the room's appearance and aesthetics. It also allows more flexibility in design when setting up your home theater and speakers. Wires and cables running to and from the TV can be run inside the wall or can be hidden with wire management tools and cable runners.
Wall mounts come in many shapes and sizes. While most mounts secure the TV flush to the wall, some "articulate" back and forth and allow the TV to be pushed back or forward slightly. Wall mounts generally come in two pieces. One attaches to the back of the TV with screws while the other is secured to the wall and wooden studs using screws and anchors. When both pieces are in place, a helper is needed to lift the TV and secure the TV to the wall mount. Good planning is necessary to locate where the mount is to be installed on the wall, so the TV is in the perfect position. Proper equipment and power tools are required to find studs inside the wall, secure the mounts and ensure that the TV is level.
Table mounts
The table, or stand mount, is convenient if you live in an apartment or don't want to bother drilling holes in the wall. This method requires the TV to be mounted on top of a stand or table and can easily be integrated into any home theater system. Generally, the mount is assembled beforehand and is attached to the TV while it's lying flat on the ground. Then, the TV is lifted and placed on a table. Sometimes the stand is further secured to the table. Some skill with a screwdriver is required for this method, but stand mounts are much easier to install than wall mounts.
Safety
When mounting a flat panel TV to a wall or stand mount, proper safety precautions must be observed. When hanging the TV inches or 80 pounds, use two wall studs to anchor the wall mount. When installing to a stand mount, spread a towel or blanket under the TV when it is lying face down to protect and cushion the glass screen.
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