Step 2: Room & Projector Check
Time estimate: 20 minutes
What You'll Do
Measure your room and ceiling, then review the three mounting configurations in preferred order: Side-Mount, End-Mount, and Vertical-Mount. This decision drives the hardware you need and the physical steps in Step 3 -- getting it right here saves rework later.
Before You Start
- Tape measure available
- Projector on hand or already selected -- check projector and room requirements
- Table size known (7', 8', or 9')
Choosing a Mount Configuration
Three mounting configurations are supported. Prefer Side-Mount when the room allows it. Use End-Mount as the usual alternative. Use Vertical-Mount only for special situations when Side and End are impractical, and only with a projector the manufacturer approves for lens-down operation.
- Use our interactive 3D tool to fully visualize different configurations and get measurements
| Configuration | Projector Position | Approx. Height | Approx. Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side-Mount | Table side | 7' -- 8' | 2' -- 3'6" |
| End-Mount | Table head or foot | 6'5" -- 7' | 4' -- 6' |
| Vertical-Mount | Just off side of table, pointing straight down | See diagram below | See diagram below |
The height and distance values are approximations. Shorter distances generally apply to 7' tables; longer distances to 9' tables. Step 3 walks you through finding the exact "sweet spot" for your projector with a hands-on test before you drill anything.
Which Configuration Is Right for Your Room?
Side-Mount is preferred when the room allows it. The projector sits off the side of the table and may be wall- or ceiling-mounted in a conventional (not lens-down) orientation. Side-Mount is the factory default configuration in ICATS.
End-Mount is the recommended alternative when Side-Mount is not practical. It works well when ceiling height is between 6'5" and 7'. The projector sits at the head or foot of the table and requires 4-6 feet of clearance beyond the end rail. Like Side-Mount, End-Mount uses a conventional projector orientation and may be wall- or ceiling-mounted. The minimum height of 6'5" keeps the projector above head level for most players.
Vertical-Mount is for special applications when Side and End are impractical. It points the projector straight down from above the edge of the table. Minimum heights by table size are listed in the diagram below. Usually, a table light does not interfere with the projector light. If it does, raise the light a few inches, or move the projector out from the table a bit more and tilt as needed.
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.
Regardless of which configuration you choose, the projected image must meet these requirements:
- The near edge of the light must cover the bumper corners
- The far edge of the light must cover the bumper
- Illumination beyond the table edge is acceptable, though it wastes light
Pre-Built Mount Kits
If your ceiling situation is fairly standard, a ready-made mount kit simplifies the hardware selection. See Mounts section of Compatible Equipment for kits that include mounting hardware and instructions.
If your room has an unusual ceiling type or configuration, see real-world mounting examples. One of those approaches should work for most rooms.
Owners of ICA's existing portable projector stand can compare that lens-down setup in the mounting examples.
Troubleshooting
Ceiling height is below 6'5"
End-Mount and Side-Mount both require at least 6'5" to keep the projector above head level. A low ceiling does not automatically mean Vertical-Mount or a portable floor stand is the right answer. Prefer Side-Mount when the room allows it, use End-Mount as the usual alternative, and consider Vertical-Mount only when neither works and the projector manufacturer approves lens-down operation. Use the Room Fit tool or contact ICA if the room is unusual.
Projector is not on the compatibility list
Not all projectors produce the throw ratio, resolution, and brightness that ICATS requires. Using an incompatible projector is the leading cause of poor image quality and calibration failures. Review projector and room requirements before mounting.
Room dimensions seem tight for all three configurations
Review See mounting examples for examples of non-standard installations. Contact support if none of the configurations appear workable in your space.
What's Next?
With your configuration selected and room confirmed, Step 3 covers the physical mounting process -- finding the exact projector position and attaching it to the ceiling. You will need a ladder, common hand tools, and ideally a second person to help.