Where to Put Cable Box on Mounted TV: A Comprehensive Guide
Mounting a TV on the wall is a great way to save space and create a clean, minimalist look in your living room, bedroom, or office. However, it can raise the question of where to put the cable box, which is usually necessary for accessing cable or satellite channels, streaming services, and other media sources.
If you leave the cable box on a nearby shelf or table, it can clutter the area and ruin the sleek design of your wall-mounted TV. Alternatively, if you put the cable box behind the TV, it can interfere with the signal reception, overheat and damage the equipment, or make it hard to access the ports and cables.
So, where to put cable box on mounted TV? The answer may depend on various factors, such as the size and shape of your TV, the type and location of the cable box, the distance and angle between the TV and the viewer, and the personal preferences and needs of the user. Here are some options to consider.
1. Use a Cable Box Wall Mount
One of the easiest and most practical solutions to the cable box problem is to mount it on the wall, next to or behind the TV. This can keep the cable box out of sight and reach, while still allowing easy access to the cables and buttons. You can use a cable box wall mount that attaches to the TV mount or the wall itself, and holds the cable box securely in place. Some of these mounts come with adjustable arms, shelves, or clamps, which can accommodate different sizes and shapes of the cable box.
2. Install an Infrared Repeater System
If you put the cable box behind the TV, you may need to use an infrared (IR) remote control to change channels, adjust the volume, and perform other functions. However, the IR signal may not reach the cable box if its blocked by the TV or other obstacles. To solve this issue, you can install an IR repeater system that relays the remote signals from a sensor near the TV to an emitter near the cable box. This can enable you to control the cable box even if its hidden behind the TV.
3. Use a Wireless HDMI Kit
Another way to avoid the cable clutter and the signal interference is to use a wireless HDMI kit that transmits the audio and video signals from the cable box to the TV without any cables. This can eliminate the need for running wires and cables across the room, and allow you to mount the cable box anywhere you want, as long as its within the range of the wireless signal. Some wireless HDMI kits come with a built-in IR extender, which can also transmit the remote signals from the TV to the cable box, without the need for an external IR system.
4. Hide the Cable Box in a Cabinet or Closet
If you have a large collection of media devices, such as a cable box, a gaming console, a streaming device, and a DVD player, you may want to consider hiding them all in a cabinet or closet, rather than just the cable box alone. This can create a dedicated media center and keep all the cables, cords, and devices neatly organized and concealed. Some cabinets or closets may have built-in cable management systems, ventilation holes, and power strips, which can make it easier to connect and operate the devices.
Conclusion
In summary, choosing where to put cable box on mounted TV may require some careful consideration of your needs, preferences, and the available options. However, with the right tools and techniques, you can create a clean, streamlined, and functional entertainment center that enhances your TV viewing experience. Whether you want to hide the cable box behind the TV, mount it on the wall, use a wireless connection, or put it in a cabinet, theres a solution for every situation. |