Big screen TVs are getting cheaper every day, but they still represent a considerable investment. More importantly, they're likely the centerpiece of any room in which they appear, and as such, need to be selected with an eye on how they fit into the size and aesthetics of the space. It pays to do a little preparation beforehand; knowing the right TV for your particular circumstances can save you a great deal of hassle in the long run.
Instructions
1. Measure the space where the big screen TV will go. It needs to comfortably fit within that space with a good 6 inches around the edges where no pictures or other distractions intrude. Measure all of the pertinent dimensions--height, length and depth--and write them down so you know what they are.
2. Measure the distance between your intended spot for the TV and the place where you intend to watch it. Experts recommend a distance of two to three times the diagonal length of the screen for an optional viewing experience. If you don't have that much space, consider buying a smaller TV.
3. Check the eye line of your viewing position and compare it to the proposed spot for the big screen TV. You want to be able to watch the TV by looking straight ahead. Craning your neck to watch is apt to be extremely uncomfortable. If you're mounting it on the wall, make sure it's not too high and adjust your measurements accordingly.
4. Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall if you're mounting the big screen TV to the wall. The studs will support the TV much more readily than plaster or drywall. Readjust your measurements if necessary and make sure the TV will still fit readily in its new position.
5. Gauge the strength of the TV stand or table to make sure it can support the set if you aren't mounting the TV. Big screen TVs--especially plasma screen TVs--can be quite heavy, and you need a stand that can safely support your TV. Most stands list the weight gauge in their instruction manual. If your stand isn't sufficient, consider budgeting a little extra money for a sturdier one.
6. Count the number of accessories you intend to connect to your TV: DVD players, DVRs, stereo systems and the like. Most big screen TVs have multiple jacks to allow you to connect numerous different components. Make sure your TV has enough to support all of your accessories. More importantly, make sure the specific output jacks on the TV match those of your accessories. This is especially important for TVs with high-definition capacity; you'll need HDMI outlets (thin rectangular outlets) to connect to HD DVRs, Blu-Ray players and similar high-definition components.
7. Shop around for different big screen TVs until you find a brand that's right for you. Then, search different stores in your area (or the Internet if you're buying the TV that way) to find the cheapest price for the brand you have selected.
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