Cheetah APDAM2B TV Wall Mount

Dual Arm Articulating Wall Mount For 32-63" Displays

Cheetah APDAM2B TV Wall Mount






Editors' Rating:


Pros:
  • Strong construction
  • Smooth arm motion
  • Excellent value
Cons:
  • Backplate and arms not always aligned
  • Heavy TVs can cause tilt adjustment to slip
  • Frame too wide for use with 32" TV
  • Substandard mounting hardware

Quick Specs
Mount Type:
 Articulated
Fits Screens:
 32-63in
Max Capacity:
 180lbs
Tilt Up/Dn:
 15°/15°
Extension:
 21.0in
Profile Height:
 4.8in
Max Stud Span:
 17.0in

Product Summary
The Cheetah APDAM2B articulating wall mount features over 21" of dual arm cantilevered extension, a slim 4.25" profile, and can tilt +/-15 degrees. The frame itself is constructed of high grade steel making for a sturdy platform that can accommodate virtually any LCD or plasma TV up to 63".

This is a cost effective mount for anyone with a large screen that needs full range of motion and trouble free operation. But like anything else, there are a few things you should be aware of.

First, be sure to measure your wall stud spacing before you order. The APDAM2B's wall plate is designed for 16" studs. If you have non-standard spacing you may need to install a cross brace of some kind. Fortunately, 16" is the most common so this will not impact many.

Prior to installation check that the backplate is plumb with the rest of the frame. In some rare cases the two have been slightly out of alignment. Is so, you will find it frustratingly difficult to get the TV level after the backplate is secured to the wall. Save yourself the hassle and return it for a replacement if you find this is the case.

Regardless of the frame always replace the fastener hardware that comes in the box. Sadly, they are just not up to the task. This includes the lag bolts used to attached the wall plate and the wing nuts that secure the TV struts to the front plate. It is baffling that a great TV wall mount bracket is packaged with such substandard hardware. Don't gamble with expensive equipment - be safe and replace with quality fasteners.

If your TV is 50" or larger, or unusually heavy, you might find it very difficult to lock the tilt angle to where you want it. The sheer weight of the TV forces the tilt mechanism to tip downward until it can't go any further. No matter how hard you try, the adjustment knobs on the side do not provide enough tension to hold things in place. Some solutions that have been tried are drilling holes through the tilt arms and inserting bolts to lock them into position.

And finally, when the mount is collapsed against the wall, the dual arms fold outward to span a total of 34". This may be wide enough for the mount to be visible from the front, especially when mounting certain minimal chassis 32" displays. Check the width of your TV if unsure.

Despite a few shortcomings the Cheetah APDAM2B has proved to be a reliable articulating mount for big screen enthusiasts at a very attractive price.

Note: Cheetah have since released an updated version, the APDAM3B.


Tags: 16in stud, articulating wall mount, cheetah, tilt wall mount, TV wall mount