Step 2: Room & Projector Check
Time estimate: 20 minutes
What You'll Do
Measure your room and ceiling, review the three mounting configurations, and decide which one is right for your space. 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 -- verify it is on the compatibility list
- Table size known (7', 8', or 9')
Room Clearance
ICATS requires at least 5 feet of clearance around the table for unobstructed play with a standard-length cue. Measure the open space on all four sides before going further.
If any side of the table has less than 5 feet of clearance, play will be obstructed. Address room layout before committing to a mount location.
Choosing a Mount Configuration
Three mounting configurations are supported. Each has different height and distance requirements. Review all three and select the one that fits your ceiling height and available space.
| Configuration | Projector Position | Approx. Height | Approx. Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Side-Mount | Table side | 7' -- 8' | 2' -- 3'6" |
| Vertical-Mount | Table side, pointing straight down | See diagram | ~1" from ceiling |
| End-Mount | Table head or foot | 6'5" -- 7' | 4' -- 6' |
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 better suited to higher ceilings (7' and above) and tighter rooms. Because the projector is closer to the table, the image is crisper -- particularly on larger tables. Side-Mount is the factory default configuration in ICATS.
Vertical-Mount points the projector straight down from directly above the table. It requires minimal horizontal clearance and tends to produce the crispest image, but it demands a ceiling directly above the table at the right height. Minimum heights by table size are listed in the diagram below.
End-Mount 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. The minimum height of 6'5" keeps the projector above head level for most players.
Illumination Requirements for All Configurations
Regardless of which configuration you choose, the projected image must meet these requirements:
- The bottom edge of the light must cover the bumper corners
- The top 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 associated products for kits that include mounting hardware and instructions.
For rooms with unusual ceiling types or configurations, the mounting photos gallery shows a variety of real-world installations. One of those approaches should work for most rooms.
A portable projector stand is also available in the shop, which eliminates the need for a permanent ceiling mount entirely.
Troubleshooting
Common Issues
Ceiling height is below 6'5"
End-Mount and Side-Mount both require at least 6'5" to keep the projector above head level. If your ceiling is lower, a portable projector stand may be the only viable option. Contact support to discuss your room.
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. Visit /support/projector-compatibility to review the list before mounting.
Room dimensions seem tight for all three configurations
Review the mounting photos gallery 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.