If you have always dreamed of having a wall-mounted plasma or LCD television set in your home, then now is the time to make that dream come true.
Not only are high-quality televisions more affordable than ever before, they're also easier to mount.
Mounting solutions such wall brackets, articulating arms, and other types of flat screen TV mounts are widely available, and the installation process is so straightforward that even the most inexperienced do-it-yourselfer can get the job done.
The only potential sticking point is deciding exactly where to hang the television.
On one hand, installing your wall brackets too high can lead to a stiff neck from having to constantly lean back and look upwards while watching your favorite show.
On the other hand, flat screen TV mounts placed too low can result in a somewhat odd look that throws off room symmetry and disrupts the general decor.
To ensure that you select the best possible location for your wall-mounted television, it is essential to first determine the optimal viewing distance in the room.
This measurement, which yields a recommended distance from the TV to your couch or chair, is based on the size of the room as well as the size and shape (e.
g.
standard or widescreen) of the television set.
Many manufacturers now provide charts that quickly tell consumers the optimal viewing distance for specific models, and there are also free online calculators available at various websites that do the same thing.
Remember, though, that these are basic guidelines rather than hard and fast rules.
Further adjustments might be required based on how good your eyesight is and other variables unique to your home, so keep that in mind.
Just knowing the optimal viewing distance doesn't mean you're ready to install the wall brackets yet.
You next have to decide whether you will mount the television at eye level or above eye level.
Here are some points to consider for each option.

• Mounting at eye level.
  Most residential flat screen TV mounts are installed at seated eye level, which means the center of the television is at eye level when you are sitting on your favorite piece of furniture.
  To find seated eye level, you should take measurements from all the different chairs and sofas in the room to come up with a height that works for every angle.
  It should be noted that in some decorating schemes, putting wall brackets at seated eye level will make the television appear to be too low on the wall.
  If you don't like the result, you can raise the set a few inches to achieve a better look.
  
• Mounting above eye level.
  Some folks prefer to mount their television above eye level.
  This option is great for when you want to install the unit in a bedroom or above a fireplace.
  If you plan on watching television while reclining in bed, then hanging the set at seated eye level will be too low for comfort.
  Test out spots several inches higher than that, and consider using a tilting mount to give you even more control over the viewing angle.
  To install above a fireplace, the general rule of thumb is to leave about 6 to 12 inches between the top of the mantel and the bottom of the television - much as you would for a piece of artwork.
  

Now that you have a better idea of the thought processes involved in deciding on the best place to hang flat screen TV mounts, you should be able to find the ideal spot on your living room, family room, or bedroom wall.
If you try one location and it doesn't work out, go ahead and move your television to a place that is better suited to your needs.
These types of installations are rarely permanent, so besides a few extra drill holes in the wall and your own free time, you've got nothing to lose!