I have just purchased a plasma TV and I am attempting to mount it above my fireplace.
I have already identified the studs above the fireplace where I can attach the mounting bracket for the plasma. I am attempting to hide all of the wires (power & RCA cables). The mounting wall that the bracket is connected to is recessed, so there is about a 12-inch overhang above the fireplace. I would like to do a few things:

1) Access power on the left side of the fireplace (located diagonally about 8 feet) as
you are facing the fireplace.

2) Create an opening so that I can "push" all of my RCA cables, from the back of the
mounted hdtv through to the home-theatre equipment (which may be located on either
the left or right sides). I would like to cover these openings on left or right with hinged faceplates

I am looking for some advice, tips or possibly a website tutorial. I can use a drywall
saw and cut the openings that I need but, I am not sure what type of conduit or tunnel should be used to push the power or RCA cables through. Also, I not sure how to make the conduit "bend" to reach that diagonal 8 foot distance, without taking out major chunks of drywall or what type of flexible tool to use to “push” the cables the length of the conduit. Any help or direction would be appreciated.

Do yourself a favor, hire a pro. You have described a complicated install, not one to be taken lightly.
The money you "save" on your install may be quickly eaten up by having to repair drywall, buy speciaized tools, etc.

I agree. If it is one of those gas fireplaces with a metal encloser, you need to make sure you keep your wires way away from the metal. Hire a pro to wire it at the very least.

DNA!!!!!

Do
Not
Attempt

I have done several of these "shadow box" installs, and the measuring, double checking, re-checking, electricity and everything was a pain. And it's what I get paid for. As McNasty says, do yourself (and in the end your wallet) a favor and hire the professional in your area.

avdude
site admin
www.integrationpros.com

All I have to say is.... heat rises.

Heat isn't an issue when it's done right. I've done a crapload of plasmas over fireplaces and never had any problems.

Well, except for the heat mirage....

Thanks for the words of wisdom. It's just hard for me to fork over the 500-700 fee for professional installation without at least attempting first. I am taking some of the advice to heart and have done a little research.

1) I do not have a gas fireplace

2) I live in california, my fireplace is rarely used, but after checking with the manufacturer & some AV forums the plasma display has an operating condition of 34 degrees farenheit to 104 degrees farenhiet (not to mention that the mantle extends over the fireplace by about 16 inches) - so heat won't be an issue

I have posted a picture of my fireplace:
[Link: imagestation.com]

My main problem will be getting from the center of fireplace to the power & cable signal on the left.. I can't access from the attic, because I have vaulted ceilings....

must.... make...... attempt .... :)

some words of wisdom...from a rather quoteable/notable guy...

"The Bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten" Benjamin Franklin...

avdude
site admin
www.integrationpros.com

What kind of plasma are we talking about here, and where did you purchase it?

if your gonna try it

you should cut the sheetrock at the studs so that you can either drill the stud and put the wires in the wall or place the wires over the studs and then plaster over it.the electric HAS to go through the studs.Run a romex from the outlet and put a new clock outlet in behind the plasma. Make sure you run enough wires--i would recommend at least 4 rg6's. one for video and three for component..maybe an extra three for a second set of components. also run a cat5 for an ir emitter/ reciever.maybe even a vga or dvi. what kind of equipment are you using?

Does anyone have a mfg or model # for those recessed clock outlets?

Thanks

Hire an experienced pro. Drilling around a fireplace can get hairy. It's not the firebox itself, but the chimney and flues. Damage any of those, and you could create a fire/fume hazard. IMHO Being cheap is always more expensive in the long run.

Just my 2c

glaro,

Thanks for the advice. I have a Panasonic 42" Plasma display (model # th-42pwd5uy). You can see a picture of it here:

[Link: plasmatvbuyingguide.com]

I am NOT going to move any of the power outlets, I just want to create a tunnel (using a tube conduit) from the back of the display (which will be hanging above the fireplace) to the left hand side which has the AC outlet & the cable signal.

Take a look at the setup:
[Link: imagestation.com]

It is against code to run a regular power cord inside a wall. Do yourself a favor, hire a pro to do the instalation right. I make a nice living fixing DYI projects. They always seem easy at first, but then Murphy's Law comes out and bites you!