
How do I know if my TV will fit this outdoor box?
To ensure your TV will fit into an outdoor box, you'll need to take a few key measurements and compare them to the internal dimensions of the enclosure. It's about more than just the advertised screen size.
Don't Rely on the Screen Size
The diagonal measurement of a TV screen (e.g., 55 inches) doesn't account for the bezel (the frame around the screen) or the overall physical footprint of the television. You'll need to measure the TV's actual width, height, and depth.
The Three Essential Measurements
Grab a tape measure and note the following dimensions of your TV:
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Width: Measure the TV from the furthest point on the left to the furthest point on the right.
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Height: Measure from the very top to the very bottom of the TV's frame.
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Depth: Measure how thick the TV is, from the front of the screen to the back. Make sure to account for any parts that stick out in the back.
Check the Outdoor Box's Specs
Every outdoor TV enclosure will list its internal dimensions. Compare your TV's measurements to these specifications. It's a good idea to allow for a little extra space—at least an inch or two—around all sides of the TV for proper ventilation and to make installation easier. This extra room will also accommodate cables and any streaming devices you might want to place inside the box.
VESA Mounting Pattern: A Crucial Detail
Most outdoor TV boxes come with a built-in TV mount. You'll need to ensure your TV's VESA mounting pattern is compatible with this mount. The VESA pattern refers to the standard configuration of the four mounting holes on the back of your TV. It's expressed in millimeters, such as 200x200 or 400x400. You can find this information in your TV's manual or by measuring the distance between the holes yourself. The outdoor enclosure's specifications will indicate the VESA patterns it supports.
Final Considerations
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Cable Management: Think about where the TV's ports are located and how your cables will run within the enclosure. Ensure there's enough space to connect everything without straining the cables.
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Weight Capacity: Check the maximum weight the outdoor enclosure and its included mount can support. Make sure your TV's weight is well within this limit.
By carefully measuring your TV and comparing it to the internal dimensions and VESA compatibility of the outdoor box, you can be confident you're getting the right fit.
For a visual guide on installing an outdoor TV enclosure, you might find this video helpful.
Acrtmatic TV Enclosure Installation
This video provides a general overview of the installation process for a specific brand of outdoor TV enclosure, which can be useful for understanding the general steps involved.