Since that first post, I can add
www.selbyhardware.com and “Vision Art covers†are other alternatives. I haven’t gotten quotes from either of them. I am above a mantel, so furniture that does it is out. See attch pic.
I am all but resigned to do a modified DIY version of the Auton In-Vis-O-Trak product. Searching on that product name also brings up a hit within the avsforum. I haven’t gotten a price on their motorized version, but am convinced that, if its motorized, retail is far above the $1000 I’m am willing to part with.
Ultimately hiding the plasma is the goal. Not actually moving the TV is going to be more economical. More economical than that, but less cool, is something manually operated. I don’t want to bore folks with too many details, but the pic shows my starting point.
http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7mqua/PlasmaMntl.JPG
-11 inches recess depth
-plenty open space inside upper portion
-space above flu pipe will increase.
Basically, you’ve got to bore out an area above your plasma to use a panel lift, which lifts a picture that is about ten inches higher than your plasma. The picture is only raised enough to expose the plasma, while hiding the mechanicals that raise it. It’s the same idea as executed here:
http://www.audio-corner.com/slidesho...om.asp?slide=1
The picture in that pic hides what is above the box and recessed in the wall allowing it to operate. They often use RF remotes on these and ask upwards of $300 just for the remote, er, I'm sorry, 'controller'!
Simple weights on pulleys, with some source of friction during the travel and a clip at either end are what I’m thinking. The pulley(s) would mount high in the box allowing weights to descend as the picture went up and down on some kind of guides mounted directly to the frame.
Of course, there’s always hanging something in front of the recess.
Sorry for thinking out loud.
Chris
) I'm surprised it looks like few undertake hiding their plasma's on the avs forum. Its one of their best features, IMO. I know it wouldn't be the easiest DIY, what with the delicate nature of the screen, etc, but there has to be many ways to do it cheaper than 3 large.
