Thursday, February 16, 2012

Mount A Projector To A False Ceiling

Mounting a projector to a false ceiling requires a mount and extension.


Mounting a projector in a false ceiling is a common project in finished basements. Dropped ceilings, as they are commonly called, allow for easier access to joists and rafters, making the mounting and wiring process easier. Additionally, selecting a more basic mount, perhaps less cosmetically appealing, may be a good money-saving option, since ceiling tiles will obscure much of the mount. Securing a projector to a false ceiling is a good way to get a real large-format image.


Instructions


1. Measure the throw distance from the projector to the screen or projection surface. Consult the projector's model, as this will vary from unit to unit.


2. Have a qualified electrician install an AC power outlet in a metal junction box next to the ceiling.


3. Remove the ceiling tile most centered and properly distanced from the projection surface. Hold the ceiling bracket against the rafter or joist, and drill through the bolt holes into the mounting surface.


4. Place the mount against the surface. Drive the included bolts and washers through the holes in the mount with the ratchet and socket.


5. Attach the extension pole with the appropriate model-specific hardware and proper screwdriver.


6. Measure the location of the extension pole's drop relative to the ceiling tile opening. Measure the removed ceiling tile to determine the location for the hole that needs to be cut. Cut the hole with the drywall saw, making sure to accommodate the size of the cable bundle that will pass through.


7. Remove the ceiling tiles necessary to gain access to an area suitable to route the A/V cables from the electronics to the projector.


8. Drill a hole every 18 inches, and manually screw in a drive ring. Route the cables from the equipment through the rings to the projector location. Replace the tiles.


9. Turn over the projector. Screw the projector bracket to the threaded inserts on the bottom of the projector with the appropriate screwdriver.


10. Attach the projector bracket to the extension pole. Connect the cables to the projector and reattach the cosmetic covering, if applicable.








11. Fine tune the projector's alignment with the horizontal and vertical lens shift and the unit's remote.

Tags: ceiling tile, extension pole, false ceiling, projector false ceiling, cables from, ceiling tiles, Mounting projector