Audio Transcript
To mount your flat screen TV and make sure it stays on the wall, you have to have to pick the right mounting kit for the job. Most are anchored into wood studs, but many include special anchors for concrete, drywall, metal studs and so on. Just remember, your anchors need to hold 5 times the weight of what you're putting on the mount.
-
To start, attach the mounting arms to your TV. Most monitors have mounting holes flush with the back on the monitor. Screw each mounting arm to the back of the TV. Be sure not to over tighten or use screws that are too long. They can do damage and cause the monitor to come loose. This kit comes with optional 5 degree mounting plates, if you're mounting the TV above eye level.
-
Before you attach the wall plate to the wall, insert the security screws into each end of the bracket. Tighten them just half way, so they're able to turn freely.
-
Use an electronic stud finder to find the outside edges of the two studs on which you want to attach your wall mount. If your kit comes with a mounting template, use masking tape to temporarily stick it to the wall at your pencil marks and use a level to keep your pencil marks straight. Then use the mounting template to measure the exact height you want to mount the TV on the wall. Measure from the floor up. Make sure the template is centered on the studs and then drill the mounting holes.
-
Next, attach the wall mount by screwing in the top two lag bolts first, then screw in the bottom bolts and check that the wall mount is level. Tighten down all the screws. Be careful not to over tighten them.
-
If your wall mount comes with decorative end covers, now is the time to attach them. Most just press the covers into place. Then use a screw driver to turn the locking mechanisms into their locked positions, toward the front of the bracket.
-
Next, connect all the necessary wires to your TV.
-
And finally, you might want to get a friend to help you lift and guide the TV onto the wall plate. Make sure the monitor arms are resting securely on the top and bottom rails. Lock the arms into place with the security screws. If it's mounted securely, the TV shouldn't move.
The bigger the display, say 60 inches, the harder it is to support, so it's important to properly gage your wall structure to make sure it can support the weight. Or you might want to call in the cavalry, that is, a professional installer.
