Suppliers for event organisers and people who want the ultimate enjoyment of watching videos and movies at home both spend a fortune to purchase the best projector mounts to optimise the viewing experience of the audience. The device may look simple and almost insignificant but it serves a higher purpose other than making a projector secure.
Things to consider when buying a projector mount
Just because it looks simple, it does not mean that you can just go ahead and buy any type of projector mount. Several factors should be considered before you make a purchase, whether it is for commercial or home use.
1. Projector placement
You must figure out where the projector is to be placed. The device could be placed on the wall or on the ceiling. The line of sight is important and the project must be in a position where it will not impede the view of the audience.
Of special interest is a ceiling-mounted projector. Most projectors, when they are placed on the ceiling need to be inverted. If the projector you have cannot be inverted, you will need a specialised projector ceiling mount. The most versatile one is a mount that can function as a platform so that you can clamp the projector to it or ensure that the projector can be installed securely on the mount.
2. Type of projector mount for the ceiling
You have a choice between a universal or dedicated projector ceiling mount. A dedicated ceiling mount perfectly aligns to the screw hole pattern of a specific make of projector. A universal project mount has movable screw holes that can be moved to align to the screw holes of various projectors. If you are using the latter, make sure that arm extensions are aligned with the projector’s screw holes to ensure that the device is positioned and balanced correctly. The mount must be capable of supporting the projector’s weight.
The universal projector ceiling mount has a bit of an advantage over the dedicated type as it can accommodate different sizes of projectors.
3. Projector mount construction
Projectors are heavy and their weights vary as well. Therefore you have to ensure that the projector mount you buy is sturdy. The construction of the mount should be solid. Look closely at the hinges and joints to ensure that they are strong enough to bear the weight of the projector.
Consider also that projectors produce a lot of heat when in use. The heat causes the different components of the projector to shrink and expand. Choose a projector mount that allows heat to dissipate. This will prevent the projector from overheating, which could lead to the device breaking down. Avoid mounts that are designed as flat and large plates because they trap heat around the projector.
Choose a projector ceiling mount made of aluminum, as steel is a poor heat conductor. Steel causes the heat to remain close to the projector. Buy an aluminum projector ceiling mount that is coated with anodizing powder or paint to avoid metal corrosion.
4. Available accessories
Find a projector mount manufacturer that also produces accessories for the mounts. Depending on how you attach the projector mount, you might need accessories such as extension pipes and ceiling plates. You need accessories that will exactly match the projector mount that you buy. You may be spending more money upfront, but is best, if you’re looking to save to have the proper accessories. This will help your projector to work properly and not become damaged because the accessories do not support the device, and cause issues overtime.
It would be better if the manufacturer of the projector mount has a return policy so that you can have the product returned and replaced if it is not suitable to your existing projector.