ICATS Requirements
Important: Please verify these requirements before purchasing. This page is designed to reduce confusion by ensuring your space is compatible.
Table Size
ICATS is designed for standard pool tables. The system works best with:
- 7-foot tables (standard bar table)
- 8-foot tables (Common home table )
- 9-foot tables (Tournament size)
Note: Table dimensions may affect projector placement requirements. Use the Room Check Wizard to verify your specific setup.
Ceiling Height
The optimum ceiling height is at least 8 feet.
Minimum ceiling height requirements depend on your mounting preference. These are the minimum heights to fully cover the table with light and maintain 6-foot headroom:
| Mount Type | 7-foot table | 8-foot table | 9-foot table |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side | 7 ft 1 in | 7 ft 1 in | 7 ft 1 in |
| End | 7 ft | 7 ft | 7 ft |
| Vertical | 7 ft 5 in | 7 ft 7 in | 7 ft 11 in |
Ceiling height affects projector throw distance and image alignment. Lower ceilings require careful placement and may limit mounting options.
Projector Requirements
Required Specifications
- HDMI input: Required
- Throw ratio: about 0.5 for Side and Vertical mounts; about 1.0 for End mount. Throw ratio is not manufacturer approval for lens-down (Vertical) operation.
- Resolution: 1920x1080 (1080p) recommended; can use 1280×800 (WXGA) for 7-foot tables
- Brightness: 4000+ lumens recommended for well-lit rooms
Not all projectors are compatible. Before purchasing, verify your projector meets these specifications or consider a ICATS Bundle which includes a compatible projector.
Warning: Projectors without proper throw ratio may not work with ICATS. Verify compatibility before purchase.
Mounting Distance
The distance from the edge of the table to the projector lens varies depending on the type of mounting:
- Side mount: 40 inches out from the edge of the table
- End mount: 64 inches out from the edge of the table
- Vertical mount: 6 inches out from the edge of the table
Mounting Constraints
Side-Mount is preferred when the room allows it. End-Mount is the usual alternative. Vertical-Mount (lens pointing straight down) is for special applications only.
Side and End may be wall- or ceiling-mounted with the projector in a conventional orientation. Vertical means the lens points straight down; that is not the same as a conventional ceiling-mounted Side or End install.
Vertical mounting requires a projector whose manufacturer explicitly approves operation with the lens pointing straight down. Using a projector outside its approved mounting orientations may cause damage and may void the manufacturer's warranty. A High Altitude or increased-fan-speed setting does not establish manufacturer approval.
Side or End Mount
- Recommend a solid wall or ceiling (studs - drywall alone can be done with toggle bolts on ceiling only)
- Wall must be positioned for proper projection angle
- May require longer throw distance
- Check for obstructions (lights, beams, etc.)
Vertical Mount (lens-down)
- Recommend a solid ceiling structure (joists - drywall alone can be done with toggle bolts)
- Minimum heights are listed in the ceiling-height table above
- Requires access for installation (ladder or scaffolding)
- Requires explicit manufacturer approval for lens-down operation — a compatible bracket is not the same as that approval
Installation Requirements
ICATS installation is a DIY project. You should be comfortable with:
- Basic electrical work (plugging in power, HDMI connections)
- Mounting hardware installation (drilling, anchors, brackets)
- Following step-by-step setup instructions
- Troubleshooting basic technical issues
If you're not comfortable with DIY installation, consider professional installation (not included; arrange separately).
Power & Connectivity
- Power outlet: Standard 110V 2 plug outlet required near installation location
- Network: Wi-Fi required for updates (initial setup can be offline)
- Raspberry Pi: Included in all packages (no additional purchase needed)
Honest Assessment
ICATS is not for every space. If your room doesn't meet these requirements, ICATS may not be a good fit. We'd rather be upfront about limitations than have you purchase a system that won't work in your space. If you have questions about your specific situation, please contact us before purchasing.