Purchasing a new television involves numerous decisions. Once consumers have waded through the various features and made their selection, there is yet another decision that will be necessary. Finding the right location and method of placing a new plasma television is an important step in assuring optimal viewing as well as the safety of the new screen.



There are a number of viable options for the placement of a plasma television. These space saving flat screens can be mounted on the ceiling, on the wall, or placed on a stand.

Some methods of mounting the screens are less costly, others allow for greater ability to save space, and some provide more flexibility to assure that the television can be viewed at

different angles and heights. Looking at each of these options in advance will help consumers make the choice that will best suit their needs.

If a wall or ceiling mount is preferred it is important to realize that a plasma television can be heavy for its size and therefore

wall studs or a ceiling joist must be present to support it. Any additional hardware needed for installation should be available with the mounting device purchased but will be dependent upon whether the television will be mounted on wood or metal studs/joists or concrete block. Therefore, consumers should go into the buying situation knowing where they wish to place their new plasma television and what type of structure is present.

A ceiling mounted plasma television can save floor space. A ceiling mount often has an extension pipe in addition to the mount itself to allow for comfortable viewing. Some owners use a "plasma lift" with a ceiling mount option that keeps the screen hidden until they are ready to use it.

Wall mounts can be flat, tilt, swivel or an articulated arm. A flat wall mount is generally the least expensive and is the greatest

space saver as it adds only 2 inches to the depth of the display but because it is often fixed, does not offer a flexible viewing

angle. Getting a tilt mount for a plasma television adds about 4-6 inches to the depth but is often used when needing to mount the

display above eye level; such as over a fire place.

An articulating arm mount allows users to keep the display pulled back flat against the wall but also provides the flexibility of pulling out the display and turning/tilting it as needed.

Table stands are generally customized to the specific plasma television that is purchased but do tend to take up a bit more space. Some stands offer options that allow tilt and other

movement of the display including "plasma lifts".

Obviously any mount purchased will need to fit the specific plasma television selected. The television will have a pattern of holes on the back that will need to correspond to the screws

on the mount. Some mounts also have adapter plates available that will match up to popular plasma television models.

Selecting the proper mount for a plasma television can help to assure that the television is stable and positioned so as to

reduce the risk of being struck or knocked over. A proper mount can also help to assure optimal viewing and comfort and should be carefully considered to assure years of viewing

pleasure.

Article written by Christine Peppler.