Home Theater systems are one of the most popular home entertainment options today. There is nothing more enjoyable than watching your favorite movie in the comforts of your home with your folks and friends. However most people discover that setting up a home theater system is quite a task one that often causes despair. Even if your home theater system components are built using the top technology it eventually depends on how well you fit in the system in harmony with the surroundings.

Planning is needed
A point to be noted is that all movie theaters are designed by architects keeping in mind various aspects like sound effects, audience location, the height and angle of viewing and wall structure and material. Although a home theater installation would not require any activity on that scale, in-depth planning is a must to enjoy the home theater experience.

The Entertainment room
Let us begin with the location. A small stuffy room or one through which people frequently have to pass through would not be the best choice for your home theater. A medium to large sized room with windows having blinds is the perfect setting to take in a movie.
Wall units, movable stands or wall mounts?

The next part is where you are going to place the equipment which includes flat screen TV, up to 7 speakers, other audio and video components and cables. Wall units or movable stands are the best option for speakers, TV screen and other components providing safety and support at all times.
Wall mounts though they look better involve drilling, required dimensions, proper measurements, concealing the cables in moldings or conduits and so on. Cables need to be extra in length for increased flexibility. This requires more time, infinite patience and practice in handling the various tools. The manual will help you to know what goes where and avoid any mistakes.

The power supply and connections
Now we come to the power supply points. Does the room of your choice have the required power outlets and will the increased load be sustainable overtime as home theaters will typically need more power. Ideally a dedicated line from the circuit breaker would be recommended. If it's not feasible to do so a power strip, the kind used to connect computers, would come in handy. This will also shield your system from power outages and fluctuations.

It is advisable to have a separate socket for components like the cable box and DVR which does not cause the entire system to be switched off by mistake while you are recording your favorite show. A good thing would be to mark each cable by the component name it is attached to so that you won't be overwhelmed every time you have to look something up. You will need a phone or high speed data (Ethernet) connection for your TiVo or PlayStation to add more versatility to your home theater. Pass through wall plate jacks can also be used in case of space constraints.

Enjoy the experience
Proper lighting will build the ambiance of the room. Dim lights located behind or to the right of the system will aid viewing without causing any reflection. The distance between the viewers and the screen should be at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) for optimum viewing for screens of all sizes. The placement of the speakers is vital; the main speakers should be located in the vicinity of the screen and the rear ones can be placed adjacent to the viewers for best results.

About Author / Additional Info:
Robin Sage writes for Nextday Techs, a technical service provider, about ways to install electronic devices like flat screen TVs, home theater systems and computers. For more information about Nextday Techs services visit our website at http://www.nextdaytechs.com