Ceiling-mounted projectors are ideal for a home theater.
Ceiling-mounted video projectors have a few advantages over shelf- or desk-mounted projectors. They are up out of the way, meaning the image isn't blocked every time someone decides to cross the room, and they won't get bumped accidentally. They're also better ventilated, leading to lower running temperatures and longer lamp life. Ceiling-mounted projectors might be harder to reach but that's not an issue unless you lose your remote control. A ceiling mount's position is a hassle to change, however, so you need to be careful when you select a location.
Instructions
1. Figure out the "throw range" of the projector for your screen's size. A projector with a throw range of 10 to 12 feet for a 100-inch screen must be mounted between 10 and 12 feet from the screen. See Projector Central's projector calculator for help in determining your projector's throw range.
2. Measure and mark a distance within the projector's throw range on your ceiling. This distance is measured between the projector screen and the front of the projector.
3. Place your projector's ceiling mount in position and measure the distance between the front of the projector and, if your ceiling mount has a hollow center, the center of the ceiling mount. If your ceiling mount does not have a hollow center, measure six inches past the back of the projector. Ceiling mounts with hollow centers are designed to have cables run through them.
4. Drill a small hole in the ceiling where the center of the ceiling mount will be installed. This hole is for the projector's video and power cables. If you don't plan to run cables through the ceiling, or have a drop ceiling, you can skip this step.
5. Place the center of your ceiling mount over the small hole and screw the projector mount to your ceiling supports. Make sure the front side of the mount is facing the screen.
6. Mount the projector on your ceiling mount. Different mounts connect to projectors differently; consult the mount's manual for specific directions. Your projector probably will be installed upside down, with the mount attached to the bottom side of the projector.
7. Run the necessary cables from your home theater system to the projector. You can usually run one video cable and a power cable.
8. Connect the cables and finish the setup of your home theater system.
Tags: ceiling mount, your ceiling, throw range, your ceiling mount, home theater