08.20.2008 — Chief Manufacturing and Sanus – sister mount manufacturers under the Milestone umbrella – are unveiling at CEDIA 2008 an automated tilt mount with a unique "remote control."

The unit, Sanus VisionMount LT15 (And Chief's CM8), is triggered by the optical audio connection on the TV. Sensing light from the fiber optic connector, the mount tilts forward when the TV is powered on, and returns flush to the wall (with a mere 3.3-inch offset) when the TV is turned off.

"Most TVs have optical audio, and hardly anyone uses it," says Sanus chief Jim Wohlford.

He says the mount is "perfect for above the fireplace," and other inaccessible locations where the TV may be too high for a comfortable viewing experience.



"A lot of people don't like to see the TV tilted over" when not in use, Wohlford says. Furthermore, keeping the TV in a normally-flush position helps mitigate heat dispersion from the fireplace.

One more benefit of the LMT15/CM8 is that the consumer does not need an extra remote for operating the mount – it adjusts automatically according to the TV power status. An special IR remote is included, however, if users want to make their own angle adjustments.

A built-in safety feature stops the mount's movement if an obstruction is detected.

Finally, the unit is a bargain by motorized-mount standards, retailing for about $299. "Others that support 50-inch TVs are like $700," Wohlford says.

The LMT15/CM8 supports TVs 37 to 60 inches, and up to 150 pounds.


When the TV is powered on, the mount tilts forward. When it is turned off, it reverts to its home position – all through a connection to the TV's optical audio.


Learn more about Chief and Sanus at CEDIA 2008

Subscribe to CE Pro CEDIA Daily Alerts