If you want to get the most out of your 4K TV, there’s more to it than pulling it out of the box, plugging it into the wall, and turning it on. The right cables, hardware, and picture settings all work together to give you what you want. Here, we’ll outline the ways you can optimize your 4K TV installation to take full advantage of your new TV’s potential.
4K TV Installation Location
Carefully consider where you want to put your TV. If you’re in a small apartment or condo, you may not have much choice, but even in such cases, there are usually adjustments you can make to your furniture arrangement to accommodate a more optimal position for your TV.
Many prefer wall mounting for 4K TV installation because it can save a significant amount of space. If you choose to go this route, be sure to use a cable and power management kit to keep your installation looking clean and polished. With this 4K TV installation method, cables are typically connected to a power source closer to the floor, then routed through an inconspicuous hole in the wall up through the inside of the wall to the spot where your TV is mounted.
If you choose not to do a wall mount 4K TV installation and opt for a stand instead, it’s a good idea to fasten it to the wall using a security strap that is designed specifically for this purpose. Larger 4K TVs can be easy to tip over, even from accidents as simple as a bump with a laundry basket. If there are children or pets in your home, it’s crucial that you make one of these straps part of your 4K TV installation to keep the device safe.
Invest in a quality power bar, ideally with surge protection to shield your equipment from spikes in electricity. A good power bar is well worth the additional cost, especially when you’re dealing with expensive electronic equipment. A power bar also offers the convenience of additional outlets so that you can have all of your electronic components plugged into one spot, keeping your space looking tidy after 4K TV installation.
Connecting Your 4K TV
It’s helpful to take inventory of all the things you’ll be hooking up to your TV, so you can determine what kind of cables you’ll need. Do you have a cable box, Blu-ray, or gaming console? Make sure you have all the right cables during 4K TV installation. Whenever possible, use “fast” HDMI cables for 4K TV installations. HDMI offers the highest quality sound and picture. Be aware that some older components (e.g., Nintendo Wii) use analog RCA cables.
If you want the full home theater experience, consider adding a soundbar and speakers to upgrade the sound after 4K TV installation.
Adjusting Your Picture Settings
When everything’s connected and powered up, it’s time to customize your settings. Every viewer has their own particular preferences—and you’re certainly free to experiment—but there are two things you should do that can provide immediate improvement after 4K TV installation.
First, find “picture mode” in your TV’s menu, and choose the “Cinema” or “Movie” option for the most accurate picture.
Next, turn off “motion smoothing” (on some 4K TV models this goes by other names, so you may have to do a little digging). Many of today’s TVs come with motion smoothing turned on as a default, but the majority of viewers find that it gives the picture a “soap opera-like” look.
Try to Plan Ahead
Planning ahead helps make the 4K TV installation process go smoothly. Make a list of everything you’ll need so that you can avoid multiple trips to the store. If you can, have a friend come over to help. Wall mounting, in particular, is typically a two-person job.
4K TV Installation Professionals
For expert advice on 4K TV installation, call High-Definition Audio/Video (HDAV) today. Contact one of our two convenient Florida locations: Tarpon Springs at 727-736-4328 or Tampa at 813-321-3110. We offer installation services to business and residential customers including in apartments and condos. Contact us today!