Display Mounts
When it comes to choosing a method for mounting your digital signage display the top choices are wall mounting or using a dedicated TV stand to attach your display to. Both choices are usually quite cost-effective, with wall mount units being cheaper but requiring more time and expertise to install. The third option is using the built-in stand that comes with most displays, but this method is usually not practical for commercial applications where the hardware must be secured to prevent theft and accidental damage.
WALL MOUNTS The majority of digital signage these days is installed by attaching the display to a wall via a wall mount. Wall mounts come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but all perform the same, basic function. That is, to mount the display securely by attaching the mount directly to studs or wooden beams inside the wall. It is also possible to use wall mounts on surfaces such as brick or concrete in some cases, but these installations are usually much more complicated and costly. Once installed, the display can be positioned at the optimum angle for viewing. The main disadvantage of using wall mounts is the fact that electric cables will need to be run to the back of the display in order to provide it with power. Unless outlets are already available at these heights on the wall, an extension cable will usually need to be run to it from a nearby outlet. This may not be aesthetic that many business owners desire though. Qualified audio-video installers can usually conceal the extra wiring using molded, plastic trim. This will generally add to the time and cost of the installation though.
TV STANDS Dedicated TV stands are not the type that you will find in most homes. TV stands appropriate for commercial use are generally made of very heavy, solid steel, or sometimes come in tubular steel sections. The most important aspect when choosing a proper TV stand is to make sure that the weight of the display can be adequately handled. You can generally find the maximum weight that these stands will support in their sales literature. Besides the company’s published specs, a good rule of thumb is to buy a stand that weighs MORE than the display it is meant to support. TV stands can be semi-permanently set in place or supported by lockable casters to allow some mobility. As with TV wall mounts, the display will still need electrical cables run to it, but portable TV stands can be easily placed close to nearby outlets that are located along the wall. Some assembly is usually required with these stands, but overall they are much simpler to install than wall mounts and can be easily moved from one place to another.
DESKTOP/COUNTER/VESA INSTALLATION If you are considering digital signage that is 32″ or less, you can typically find computer monitors that include built-in stands. These need to be set on flat surfaces, such as a desk, countertop, a bar, etc. Generally, the built-in stands work adequately with small displays and computer monitors. If you are placing the display in an area where it could possibly be jostled or knocked over you are probably better off securing it via a VESA type mounting solution though. These mounts will secure your display via screws on the back of the monitor. The other end of the mount is screwed permanently in place on a wall, countertop or other solid objects. VESA mounts help top prevent both accidental damages as well as theft from areas that are not always under constant watch.
