Getting Started: What You'll Need
Setting up a new TV properly from the start saves you hours of troubleshooting later. Before you begin, gather the following:
- The TV, stand, and any included hardware (bolts, screws)
- HDMI cables (you may need to buy these separately)
- Your home Wi-Fi password (for smart TVs)
- Any external devices you plan to connect (soundbar, streaming stick, console)
Step 1: Choose the Right Spot
Placement affects both viewing quality and TV longevity. Keep these factors in mind:
- Viewing distance: As a general rule, sit at a distance of about 1.5–2.5 times the screen's diagonal size for a comfortable picture.
- Avoid direct sunlight: Glare washes out the picture and can damage OLED panels over time.
- Ventilation: Leave at least 4 inches of space around the TV for airflow, especially if placing it in a cabinet.
- Eye level: The centre of the screen should be roughly at eye level when seated.
Step 2: Attach the Stand or Mount
Most TVs include a table-top stand. Follow the printed guide in the box — stands vary significantly between models. If wall-mounting:
- Check your TV's VESA pattern (the bolt hole spacing on the back) and buy a compatible mount.
- Locate wall studs using a stud finder and attach the mount bracket directly into the studs.
- Have a second person help you hang the TV — most panels are heavy and awkward for one person.
Step 3: Connect External Devices
Use HDMI cables for the best quality connection. Here's a quick overview of ports you'll typically find:
| Port Type | Common Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HDMI (ARC/eARC) | Soundbars, AV receivers | Use ARC port for audio return |
| Standard HDMI | Consoles, streaming sticks, Blu-ray | Use HDMI 2.1 for 4K@120Hz |
| USB | Media sticks, firmware updates | Usually limited bandwidth |
| Optical (TOSLINK) | Older soundbars | No 4K audio support |
Step 4: Run the Initial Setup Wizard
When you first power on your TV, it will walk you through a setup wizard. Key steps typically include:
- Selecting your language and region
- Connecting to Wi-Fi (for smart TVs)
- Signing into your smart TV account (Google, Samsung, LG, etc.)
- Running a channel scan if you're using an aerial or cable connection
Step 5: Adjust Picture Settings
The default "Vivid" or "Dynamic" picture mode is designed to look bright on a showroom floor — not in a home. Switch to Cinema, Movie, or Filmmaker Mode for a more accurate, comfortable image. Key settings to adjust:
- Backlight/Brightness: Set based on your room's ambient light level.
- Sharpness: Reduce to 0–10 to avoid artificial edge enhancement.
- Motion smoothing (Soap Opera Effect): Turn this off for movies and TV shows for a more cinematic look.
- Energy saving mode: Disable this if it's dimming the picture unexpectedly.
You're Ready to Watch
With your TV placed, connected, and calibrated, you're all set. Take a few minutes to explore your TV's settings menu — most modern TVs have hidden features like ambient mode, built-in Chromecast, or accessibility options that can enhance your experience.