Fixed wallmount vs pull-out

[admin_exported]

I've only ever wall-mounted LCD TVs before using a pull-out arm-style bracket. I'm now going to be mounting on a wall where I don't need the arm for adjusting viewing angle. However, if I used a fixed bracket, doesn't that make it a pain in the backside getting access to rear sockets on the TV, e.g. to plug in new kit? I quite like the idea of the TV being closer to the wall but think I might end cursing my choice if I have to unscrew the whole thing every time I need access to the back.

Thanks

 

[Anonymous]

Yes, it's a nightmare. My monitors are fitted on arms but my TV is on a fixed bracket. I got around it by connecting various cables I thought I might need and then coiled them up before attaching the TV to the bracket. The manufacturers tell you how much clearance they have, so it's worth comparing a few.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks for confirming my fears - good idea about plugging in all possible cables... I think since it doesn't matter too much to me that it's flat against the wall, I'll go for an arm which folds reasonably flat.

 

[Andrew Everard]

Some fixed brackets allow you to tilt the screen up from the bottom, so you get someone to hold it at an angle while you change any connections. Then it locks back in place.

This Omnimount one goes further, having a built-in 'kickstand' to hold the bottom of the screen out from the wall while you plug and unplug things.

 

[Anonymous]

Thanks - I'd seen that one (I think I've seen them all over the last few days...) when I was looking for flat-mounting only, but the web-site hadn't pointed out that neat feature - nice for a bracket which leaves the TV 1.5" from the wall. I've found another swing-arm one which folds backs to about 3", so will have to mull that over. Along with, which TV, which shelving unit, which HDMI cable... What did I used to do with my spare time?

 

[Anonymous]

It is fiddly, but how often do you really need to swap cables?

 

[Andrew Everard]

moshady:I've found another swing-arm one which folds backs to about 3", so will have to mull that over.

Be a bit careful with swing-arm mounts for heavy large-screen TVs, unless you are absolutely sure of your mountings into the wall: such mounts put even more strain on the wall fixings when extended, due to the lever effect.

 

[Anonymous]

beaverme:It is fiddly, but how often do you really need to swap cables?

One of the benefits of having all of my kit connected through my AV amp is that I only need one HDMI cable to route to the TV. That was plugged in when I mounted the TV and I've promised her indoors that I will never need to take the TV down ever again........ well, until I upgrade it anyway!