|
 While
the popularity of flat-panel displays has increased, so has the need for high
quality mounting hardware. Vantage Point Products Corporation located in Santa
Fe Springs, California has addressed this with the introduction of their new Universal
Flat-Panel One Mount, cleverly called UFO. The UFO package contains all the necessary
hardware needed to mount any flat-panel display up to 50" in size. The design
of the UFO is not only functional, but attractive as well. The contour of the
assembly has a smooth and stylish look for something that is primarily hidden
behind the display. The hardware is solid and strong enough to support a maximum
load of 180 pounds, which is typically far heavier than most 50" plasma displays
we've seen.
 Installation
is simple for any capable do-it-yourselfer. Simply bolt the main Rail/Wall Bracket
Assembly into the wall studs. It's important to make sure this main bracket firmly
fastens to the center of each stud to ensure that the weight load can be met.
The main horizontal bracket slides within the vertical brackets that get bolted
to the wall. This allows the user to adjust the assembly as needed for the next
step. If the main horizontal bracket is too long, the user can cut the length
down with a hack saw. Once the main bracket is installed, the two Flat-Panel Attachment
Brackets need to be fastened to the flat-panel display. It's important to overhang
the hinged part of the panel bracket 1/4" below the bottom of the panel to
ensure that when lowered, the panel does not touch and potentially damage the
display or wall. Once the Flat Panel brackets are installed the user simply hangs
the display on the previously installed horizontal rail. The supplied screws are
then put in place to firmly grab the rail. Now the user can tilt the display making
it easy to install the video cables. There will be a 2 1/2" gap behind the
display to allow for the tilting capability.
 The
design really only requires one person except for lifting the heavy display. For
some, this isn't a problem, but for others it might help to get another person
involved to ensure the safety of your display. The design of the UFO makes it
simple for the user to adjust the hinge tension to the appropriate level for moving
the panel. However, there must be enough resistance to prevent the panel from
falling forward due to the heavy load. It's really a great design and it looks
like a lot of thought went into the UFO product.
 Conclusion
The
UFO is a complete package that includes everything needed to install any size
flat-panel display up to 50" in size. The UFO design is flexible and accommodates
variations in stud spacing with the adjustable brackets that slide on the horizontal
mounting rail. The mounted display can be tilted from -3° to +90° allowing
for flexible installation of the cables. Tie wraps are also included for the wiring
to tidy-up the installation. As with any flat panel installation, power must also
be coordinated with the installation, especially if the display is located far
from a power source. Companies such as Panamax offer a great solution for this
with their MAX® In Wall
Kit for wiring power to flat-panel displays. Vantage
Point's UFO design is a great product that allows any
do-it-yourselfer to
install a heavy flat-panel display. The design and ease of assembly makes this
product attractive. The complete package retails just shy of $400, but it can
be found for considerably less if you shop around.
-
Kevin Nakano | 
