Building a DIY ceiling TV projector is a project that requires a good deal of ingenuity, as well as an understanding of projector technology. Fortunately, if you're looking to build one, the hard research has been done for you, and everything from theory to plans to complete projector kits are available online. But before you choose the type of DIY ceiling projector you wish to build, a general plan of what's needed to mount the projector will help.
The Big Box
Your DIY projector's size will depend heavily on the parts used. The main element in producing the projected picture will be the monitor used for the project and, depending on the resolution you intend to project, this monitor will likely range from 15 inches to 17 inches. When you place that size monitor, along with the equipment needed to transform a flat screen LCD into a TV projector in a single enclosure, what you'll end up with is a big wooden box. Decorate it as you like; paint it or carve it. No matter what you do, it's still a big box, and a heavy one at that, weighing in somewhere between 20 and 40 lbs.---which makes mounting it to your ceiling a difficult task.
Rail Mount
Due to the weight of the DIY projector, you'll have to approach the mounting as a project nearly as big as building the projector was. Check your ceiling for structural supports that would make the mounting safer to those standing under your projector and less likely to cause damage to the ceiling itself.
The most convenient way to DIY projector to the ceiling is by using a rail mount system, parts found at your local hardware store. To build this mount, you'll need two channel rails as your mount system. Attach the rails to your ceiling rafters. Pick a length that suits the room and the box. The longer the channels, the more adjustable the projector picture will be, as you can change the projected size by moving the box along the channels. Be sure to mount all holes in the center of the studs.
To run your projector through the channels, you'll need four threaded rods. On the channel end, use a nut that fits inside the channel without obstructing the rod's movement and a washer also inside the channel. Outside the channel, attach a second washer and nut to the rod, leaving enough rod between the two washers to allow unobstructed movement along the channel. You'll want to attach the other end of this rod securely to your projector box, drilling holes in the top of the box where needed. If you place two rods per channel, four for the box in total, you should have a secure mobile projector mount on your ceiling for your DIY projector.
Tags: your ceiling, your projector, ceiling projector, inside channel, mount system, mount your