How to Measure a Room for a Plasma Screen TV

Plasma screen TVs can be very large and often make for superior viewing experiences. Because they are often the center of the room, you need to make some basic measurements to determine the best size and placement of the TV. Doing so will not only enhance your enjoyment of the plasma TV itself, but may prevent a number of possible complications down the road. Here's what to look for when measuring an area for a plasma TV.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tape measure
• Stud finder

1. Measure the spot for the plasma TV itself. There needs to be enough clear wall space to fit the entire TV, with a good 6 inches on either side free of any obstructions. Make sure you factor in the size of the entire TV: don't just go with the listed diagonal length (which only covers the screen).

2. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in your wall nearest the area you have measured for your TV. If you intend to mount your plasma TV to the wall, you want to mount it to the studs, which provide much sturdier support.

3. Check the load capacity of any stands you intend to place the plasma TV on. If you're not mounting it to the wall, then the stand needs to be strong enough to support the TV, as well as any additional components such as DVR or DVD players. If it can't hold that much weight, consider a smaller TV (or a sturdier stand).

4. Measure the intended distance between the plasma TV and your sitting location. Ideally, you should sit between 2 and 3 times the diagonal length of the TV screen for optimum viewing. If you sit any closer, you're liable to develop a headache. If your room isn't large enough to accommodate those dimensions, consider purchasing a smaller TV.

5. Gauge your eye line to the intended spot of your plasma TV. The TV should be level with your eyes whenever you sit down to watch it. If it's too much higher, you'll end up craning your neck to watch it, which isn't very comfortable. This is of especial concern for plasma TVs mounted to the wall.

6. Measure the distance between the TV and any power outlets in the room. Not only do you need enough power sockets to run all of the components attached to the TV, but they must be near enough for the cords to reach them comfortably, without running them across a walkway or similar inconvenient location.

Tips & Warnings

• When choosing a spot for your plasma TV, take into account any windows or light fixtures in the room. They may cause a glare on the screen, reducing your enjoyment of the set. Try to place the TV opposite a wall with no windows, or in a position where the windows face it at an oblique angle. If you're looking to create more viewing space, consider placing the plasma TV in the corner of the room and placing your seat along the room's diagonal axis. The distance will be greater than it would along either of the room's horizontal axes.

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