How to Install a Plasma Television

Plasma televisions may be installed upon a support stand like older tube televisions, or they may be mounted upon a wall. The former is a much easier (and cheaper) process, although the latter tends to create more stable support. Which one you choose depends on the particulars of your viewing area, but either way, it pays to know how to do it properly. Gauge the position of your plasma television in the room before mounting it, then take the proper steps to ensure that it is secure.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plasma screen television
• Wall mount (optional)
• Mounting screws or wood screws
• Screwdriver
• TV stand
• Wall hooks
• Chains
• Cable runner (optional)
• Stud finder (optional)

Before You Begin

1. Measure the distance between your viewing location and the planned space for the plasma TV. The optimum viewing distance is 2 to 3 times the TV's diagonal length. If your space forces you to sit closer to the TV, consider purchasing one of a smaller size.

2. Gauge how high you must tilt your head in order to watch the plasma TV. Ideally, you should stare straight ahead when sitting down to watch it. You can tilt your head upward a bit, but if you have to tilt it too high, you'll get an ache in your neck every time you watch.

3. Consider the weight of the plasma screen TV, and purchase a stand or entertainment center that can support it (along with auxiliary components such as speakers and a DVD player) or a wall mount that can bear its weight.

Stand Mounting

4. Place the accompanying pedestal on your plasma TV and tighten it in place with screws. Almost all plasma televisions come with basic pedestals as a default.

5. Set the TV on top of a stand solid enough to hold it steadily.

6. Secure the pedestal to the stand with screws. This will help hold it in place. Some plasma televisions come with straps that wrap around the rear of the stand and provide further stability.

7. Screw a pair of metal hooks into the wall behind the plasma television, then run a length of chain between the hooks of the corresponding hook-securing screws in the back of the plasma television. This step may not be possible if you set your plasma television some distance from a wall. (It isn't necessary; it simply provides further stability.)

8. Connect the cables to the back of the plasma television from any auxiliary components such as a satellite DVR or a DVD player.

Wall Mounting

9. Use a stud finder to locate the wall studs closest to the desired position for your plasma screen TV. Mark those points with a marker.

10. Mount the first piece of the wall mount to those points, using mounting screws to secure it to the wall. You may wish to use a carpenter's level to ensure that the mount is parallel to the floor.

11. Detach the pedestal from the plasma television, if necessary, then mount the second half of the wall mount to the back of it. Use screws to tighten it into place.

12. Attach the necessary cables to the back of the plasma TV. Take care not to step or trip on them during subsequent steps.

13. Lift the plasma TV and slide the first half of the mount into the second half. The two pieces should secure together with a locking mechanism.

14. Run the cables down the wall in a central bundle, then connect them to any auxiliary components. You can use a cable runner the same color as your wall to mask their presence.

15. Wait one hour and then check the mounting to make sure the television isn't drooping or sagging.

Tips & Warnings

• Plasma televisions are heavy. It's a good idea to have at least one strong friend around to give you a hand with mounting it.