Mounting a TV as a desktop is a great idea for those who want to have an elevated viewing experience without taking up too much space. Unlike traditional TV stands or wall mounts, a desktop mount allows you to adjust the position and angle of your TV for optimal viewing comfort. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of mounting a TV as a desktop, from choosing the right TV to connecting its cables and wires.
Why Mounting a TV as a Desktop is a Good Idea
Mounting a TV as a desktop has multiple benefits. Firstly, it frees up a lot of space in your home office or living room. Choosing a desktop mount for your TV means it won’t take up any valuable furniture space. Secondly, being able to adjust the angle of your TV according to your liking helps prevent neck and back strain, which is often the result of extended periods of screen time. Lastly, mounting your TV on a desktop also provides better viewing angles when compared to placing it on a TV stand or wall mount.
In addition to the above benefits, mounting a TV as a desktop can also enhance the overall aesthetic of your room. With a sleek and modern design, a desktop mount can add a touch of sophistication to your space. Furthermore, it can also help to keep your cables and wires organized and out of sight, creating a cleaner and more organized look. Overall, mounting a TV as a desktop is a practical and stylish solution for those looking to optimize their space and improve their viewing experience.
Choosing the Right TV for Desktop Mounting
The first and most important factor to consider when choosing a TV for desktop mounting is its size. You want to make sure the TV is not too large or too small for your workspace. Typically, a 32-inch TV is the ideal size for desktop mounting. Additionally, you should choose a TV that is compatible with a VESA (Video Electronics Standards Association) mount. This means the TV will have holes on the back that will fit a VESA mount, which helps with attaching it to a desktop mount bracket.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a TV for desktop mounting is its resolution. A higher resolution will provide a clearer and more detailed image, which is especially important if you plan on using the TV for work or gaming. A 4K resolution is ideal for desktop mounting, but if that is not within your budget, a 1080p resolution will still provide a good quality image. It is also important to consider the TV’s refresh rate, which is the number of times per second the image on the screen is refreshed. A higher refresh rate will provide a smoother image, which is important for fast-paced activities like gaming or watching sports.
Tools and Accessories Needed to Mount a TV as a Desktop
Before starting, it’s important to have all the necessary tools and accessories ready. You will need a drill with the appropriate drill bits, a stud finder or wall anchor and screw set, a level, and a desktop mount bracket that is compatible with your TV. You may also want to invest in cable ties or cable covers to keep the wires and cables neat and tidy.
It’s also important to consider the weight and size of your TV when selecting a desktop mount bracket. Make sure the bracket is strong enough to support the weight of your TV and that it fits the size of your TV. Additionally, if you plan on adjusting the angle of your TV frequently, you may want to choose a mount bracket with a swivel or tilt feature for added convenience.
Preparing Your Workspace for TV Desktop Mounting
Before mounting your TV on your desktop, make sure the area is clean and free of clutter. You should also have a clear idea of where you want to place your mount and have ample workspace around the area. It’s best to clean up and organize the space around your desk before starting the installation process.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your desk is sturdy enough to support the weight of your TV and mount. Check the weight limit of your desk and compare it to the weight of your TV and mount. If your desk is not strong enough, consider purchasing a separate TV stand or wall mount. It’s also a good idea to have a friend or family member assist you with the installation process to ensure safety and accuracy.
Measuring and Marking the Placement of Your TV
The next step is to measure and mark the area where you want to position your TV. Use a tape measure to measure the distance between your eyes when you are seated at your desk, and use this as a guide to position your TV. You can also use a level to ensure that your TV is even and straight.
It is important to consider the height at which you want to position your TV. A good rule of thumb is to position the center of the TV screen at eye level when you are seated. This will help prevent neck strain and ensure a comfortable viewing experience. If you plan to mount your TV on the wall, make sure to use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall and securely mount the TV bracket to them.
Drilling Holes and Installing Wall Anchors
Once you have determined the placement of your TV, use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall. If you cannot locate any studs, use a wall anchor and screw set to securely fasten the mount bracket to the wall. Using a drill with the appropriate drill bits, make holes in the wall where you want to position the mount.
It is important to ensure that the holes you drill are the correct size for the wall anchors you are using. If the holes are too small, the anchors may not fit properly and could become loose over time. On the other hand, if the holes are too large, the anchors may not provide enough support for the weight of the TV. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended hole size and anchor type for your specific mount and wall type.
Attaching the Wall Mount Bracket to the TV
Using the screws provided in the desktop mount bracket, attach the bracket to the back of your TV. Make sure the screws are tight and secure.
Once the bracket is securely attached to the TV, you can then attach the wall mount bracket to the back of the TV bracket. This is typically done by sliding the wall mount bracket onto the TV bracket and securing it with screws or bolts.
It is important to ensure that the wall mount bracket is level and securely attached to the wall. Use a level to ensure that the bracket is straight and use appropriate hardware to attach the bracket to the wall, such as screws or bolts that are appropriate for the type of wall you are mounting the bracket on.
Securing the Wall Mount Bracket to the Wall
After attaching the bracket to the TV, you can then fit the bracket onto the wall mount or wall anchor. Secure it using the screws provided, making sure the bracket is stable and level.
It is important to ensure that the wall you are mounting the bracket on is strong enough to support the weight of the TV and bracket. If you are unsure, consult a professional or use a stud finder to locate the strongest points on the wall.
Additionally, it is recommended to use a level to ensure that the bracket is straight before securing it to the wall. This will prevent the TV from being crooked or tilted once it is mounted.
Adjusting the Tilt and Swivel of Your Mounted TV Desktop
Once your TV is securely mounted, make adjustments to the tilt and swivel of the mount according to your preferences. Use the instructions provided with your mount bracket to properly adjust the angle of your TV. It’s important to get the angle right to prevent any neck or back pain caused by prolonged screen time.
When adjusting the tilt and swivel of your mounted TV, it’s also important to consider the lighting in the room. If there is a lot of natural light coming in from a window, you may need to adjust the angle of the TV to reduce glare. Additionally, if you have multiple seating areas in the room, you may need to adjust the angle of the TV to ensure that everyone has a clear view of the screen.
Another factor to consider when adjusting the tilt and swivel of your mounted TV is the height of the mount. If the mount is too high, you may need to tilt the TV downward to ensure that you are not straining your neck to view the screen. On the other hand, if the mount is too low, you may need to tilt the TV upward to ensure that you are not hunching over to view the screen.
Connecting Cables and Wires to Your Mounted TV Desktop
After adjusting the angle of your TV, you can start connecting the cables and wires. Make sure to use cables that are long enough to reach from your TV to your devices. Keep the cables organized using cable ties or covers. Always read the directions for each device before connecting any cables or wires.
When connecting cables and wires, it’s important to ensure that you are using the correct type of cable for each device. For example, HDMI cables are typically used for connecting video devices, while Ethernet cables are used for internet connectivity. Using the wrong type of cable can result in poor performance or even damage to your devices.
Another important consideration when connecting cables and wires is to avoid placing them near sources of interference, such as power cables or speakers. This can cause signal interference and result in poor picture or sound quality. If you must place cables near potential sources of interference, use shielded cables or ferrite cores to minimize the impact.
Tips for Maintaining Your Mounted TV Desktop
Finally, to ensure the longevity of your mounted TV desktop, make sure to clean the area and your TV regularly. Avoid using any harsh cleaning products that can damage your TV’s surface. It’s also helpful to regularly adjust the angle of your mount to prevent any spills or damage to your TV’s surface.
By following these steps and tips, you can easily mount your TV as a desktop and enjoy the multiple benefits it provides. Having a dedicated desktop setup with a mounted TV can significantly improve your viewing experience, prevent clutter, and help you maintain a comfortable posture for extended periods of screen time.