Unsecured flat-panel TVs can pose a great risk to consumers, and more specifically to young children. Due to increasing size and new ultra-thin designs, today’s flat panel TVs can easily tip when bumped or pulled, causing them to topple off furniture, potentially causing injury or even death.

A 2011 U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report revealed that a child dies every three weeks from unsecured TVs tipping. In addition, an estimated 20,000 people were treated in emergency rooms in 2010 due to injuries caused by tipping TVs. Alarmingly, the issue is growing; this same report indicated that injuries from TV tip-overs have increased almost 25% from 2006-2010.

Safe Kids Worldwide will be engaging local coalitions for a grass-roots educational movement while SANUS has recently launched an educational site, www.tvsafety.org as well as a national safety awareness consumer ad campaign.

“With the holidays approaching, we are thrilled to have the partnership of an industry leader such as SANUS supporting us in our efforts to create awareness of the hidden danger of TV tip-overs,” said Kate Carr, President and CEO, Safe Kids Worldwide. “This is a serious concern, and we plan to hit the ground running with a goal of protecting as many families as possible.”

TV tip-over deaths are needless and can easily be prevented. Use of a flat panel TV wall mount is a safe and secure way to avoid injury. Other options include furniture attachment systems and TV safety straps.

“The growing rate of injuries associated with TV tip-overs is sobering,” said Steve Decker, President – Consumer Products, SANUS. “We believe wall mounting provides a safer alternative to an unsecured TV. It is our goal that through this partnership and safety initiative we can reduce TV tip-over related injuries and help create a safer environment in the home.”

About Safe Kids Worldwide

Safe Kids Worldwide is a global network of organizations dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with practical and proven resources to protect kids  from unintentional injuries, the number one cause of death to children in the United States. Throughout the world, almost one million children die of an injury each year, and every one of these tragedies is preventable. Safe Kids works with an extensive network of more than 600 coalitions in the U.S. and in 23 countries to reduce traffic injuries, drownings, falls, burns, poisonings and more. Since 1988, Safe Kids has helped reduce the U.S. childhood death rate from unintentional injury by 53 percent. Working together, we can do much more for kids everywhere. Join our effort at safekids.org.

About SANUS

SANUS designs and builds a broad range of audio/video furnishings, mounts and accessories. Every SANUS product is engineered for safety and enhances both the A/V system and the surrounding décor. Today SANUS offers over 300 products, including home theater units, TV stands, audio racks, wall mounts and speaker supports.

SANUS iPad mounts give you multiple options so you can choose the best application for your lifestyle: Mount your iPad on the wall, under a cabinet, on any flat surface, or on anything metal.

Want to take your iPad with you while on the go? No problem! Each SANUS iPad mount comes with a specially engineered polycarbonate case that protects the tablet and features a built-in magnet for easy attachment and detachment from the mount without tools. Simply unclick and go.

Available Products:

VTM1: For flat surface, desk, under cabinet or magnetic surface mounting (pictured above)
See website | Watch video

VTM5: For desk, under cabinet or magnetic surface mounting

See website | Watch video

VTM6: For on-wall or magnetic surface mounting
See website | Watch video

VTM7: Case for magnetic surface mounting (comes included with VTM1, VTM5, and VTM6 and also sold separately)

See website | Watch video

The SANUS EcoSystem™ is a fully customizable accessory that serves as the single power source for all low-voltage equipment in a rack.

With the SANUS EcoSystem you can:

• Consolidate low voltage power into a single device
• Create a clean installation
• Free up valuable space inside a rack

Learn more about the SANUS EcoSystem and accessories here.

EcoSytem Bundle #1

• Model CAPT01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem MultiVolt Power Supply
• Model CAFQ01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 3U Ultra Quiet Fan
• Model CALW01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem Work Light (2-Pack)
• Model CAPW06-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 6-Foot Power Wire (2-Pack)

EcoSystem Bundle #2

• Model CAPTO1-B1: SANUS EcoSystem MultiVolt Power Supply
• Model CATG01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem Temperature Gauge
• Model CAFQ01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 3U Ultra Quiet Fan
• Model CAFC01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 1U Ultra Quiet Fan
• Model CALW01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem Work Light (2-Pack)
• Model CALT01-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 1U Task Light
• Model CAPW06-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 6-Foot Power Wire (2-Pack)
• Model CAPW09-B1: SANUS EcoSystem 9-Foot Power Wire (2-Pack)

No additional purchase is required to receive the offer. Promotion is valid through December 31, 2012.

Product features include:

• Single-stud mounting to simplify installation.
• Integrated cable management for concealing cables within the extension arm.
• Post-installation leveling adjustments to ensure the TV is perfectly positioned.
• Easy extension, tilt and swivel adjustments for achieving the best viewing angle from any seat in a room.
• Decorative covers for hiding mounting hardware.

The VMF322 is available in the traditional black finish. A newly offered white finish will be available in early August.

The ELM4900 is the perfect solution for HDMI connections in tight spaces, such as behind mounted ultra-thin TVs, because it features an angled connector that is 75% shorter than typical HDMI connectors. Simply connect an existing HDMI cable to the ELM4900 for increased versatility.

Product features include:

• 90º connection:
  Allows flexibility for use in extremely tight spaces
• 3D compatible:
  Works with 3D TVs and components
• 75% shorter connector:
  Allows easy installation behind ultra-thin TVs
• Ethernet ready:
  Delivers high-speed Internet connectivity to compatible devices, eliminating the need for a separate cable
• Ultra-high resolution:
  Handles 1080p video resolution and beyond for next generation displays

SANUS® is now shipping the FMS01 Furniture Mount System, also known as the FMS, a revolutionary new product that allows consumers all the benefits of a mounted TV without having to drill holes in the wall.

The FMS attaches directly to the back of compatible SANUS furniture and includes a built-in tilting mount for 32″-60″ TVs weighing up to 130 lbs.

Why choose the FMS?

• Mount a TV without drilling holes
• Keep your TV safe and secure
• Create space on top of furniture
• Organize cables for a clean look
• Mount smaller components to the back of the FMS, such as power conditioners, HDMI splitters, wireless routers and more

To learn more about the FMS, view compatible SANUS furniture and see how the FMS can benefit you,visit the dedicated FMS website at www.sanus.com/fms

Product features include:

• Large middle shelf for accommodating a center channel speaker or two components
• Dual pull-out media drawers for storing remotes, gaming equipment or other devices
• Removable panels for quick access to the back of components
• Adjustable feet for level positioning
• Quick and easy assembly – no tools are required
• Compatible with the ELM701 Anti-tip Strap
• Compatible with the FMS01 Furniture Mount System

For more SANUS products, visit www.sanus.com

Watch video demo of easy, tool-free assembly

Product features include:

• Removable back panels for quick and easy access to components
• Vented shelf to maximize airflow to equipment
• Adjustable shelf to accommodate equipment of varying heights
• Compatible with the ELM701 Anti-tip Strap
• Compatible with the FMS01 Furniture Mount System

The BFV348 is now available for purchase.

For more SANUS products, visit www.sanus.com

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Since October 2011, TVs tipping over have killed or injured five children in the Chicago area alone.  This recent rash of tragic incidents has renewed calls from safety experts on educating the public on safety measures that can be taken to secure TVs in the home. The following statistics come from a September 2011 report from the Consumer Protection Safety Commission titled, “Instability of Televisions, Furniture and Appliances: Estimated Injuries and Reported Fatalities.”

Injuries

• There were an estimated 20,000 U.S. emergency department-treated injuries in 2010 due to televisions tipping over.
• The number of estimated annual emergency department-treated injuries associated with television instability has increased 25% from 2006 to 2010.
• Children (under 18 years) had the highest rates annually for emergency department-treated injuries involving falling televisions, with an estimated annual average of 13,700 injuries from 2008-2010.

With the SANUS EcoSystem you can:

• Consolidate low voltage power into a single device
• Create a clean installation
• Free up valuable space inside a rack                                                                                                                                                                                                               

What is included with the SANUS EcoSystem?

• Multi-volt power supply
• Front and rear light control switches
• Master power switch
• 12 outlets with both 12V and 5V options
• 3 back side 5VDC USB charging ports
• 6 back side 12VDC ports with always on, switched and triggered options
• Thermostat kit to actively monitor air temperature inside the rack
• Automatically activated, temperature-sensitive fans
• Front side task light port and rear side task/work light
• Cable management channel

Is the SANUS EcoSystem customizable?
Yes! It is fully customizable with several available accessories:

• Rack mounted 1U task light
• Fan kits (1U ultra-quiet, 3U ultra-quiet and 3U high-volume)
• SANUS rack rail clamped or magnetically attached work lights
• Thermostat gauge with digital temperature readout
• LV power cables (3′, 6′ and 9′) for additional 12VDC devices

EcoSystem bundle packages are available to make ordering accessories even easier.

SPECIAL BUNDLE PACKAGE FOR SANUS DEALERS ONLY – Buy any SANUS Component 2100 Series Rack and get a SANUS EcoSystem accessories bundle pack for 50% off dealer cost. Contact your sales rep for more info.

For more information, visit www.sanus.com or download the product intro sheet.

I recently ran across this helpful article from CNET that offers some good tips on how to find the optimal TV mount height setting for your needs.  I highly recommend reading before installing your mount!

Also don’t forget that the SANUS Height Finder tool offers some great tips on finding the perfect height and will also provide you with precise drilling locations to make your installation as simple as possible.

Other product features include:

• Integrated cable management system hides and organizes cables
• All hardware included in package for easy mounting on sheetrock or concrete
• Micro-adjustment feature ensures unit is at the perfect height after installation

• SANUS – VMF322
• SANUS – VLF320
• SANUS – VMF308
• SANUS – VLF311
• SANUS – VMT15
• SANUS – VLT15 
• SANUS – ML11
• SANUS – LL11

The prerequisite for a Plus X award is that the product must be of absolutely highest quality, have a long life cycle, be functional, and have a design that is leading edge. The Plus X seal of approval signifies an expressive buy recommendation for consumers.

Expertly crafted for performance, the BFV157 is comprised of strong steel and tempered-glass and can hold TVs up to 60.”  Other features include:

•  Open design maximizes airflow to equipment and provides easy access to back of components
•  Middle shelf can easily accommodate up to four components
•  Media storage box helps keep remotes and other accessories organized Integrated wire management system
•  Adjustable feet ensure furniture is level on any surface
•  Combine with the furniture mount system (FMS) to add space and style

Available in three sizes, 3.3 feet, 6.6 feet and 9.8 feet the cables features a connector head that pivots 180° providing flexibility and space when connecting to mounted super slim TVs with little clearance.

All three models are compatible with 3D TVs and feature audio return channel allowing them to send audio from TV back to AV receivers and other components.  They also include an integrated Ethernet channel for high-speed Internet connectivity to compatible devices, which eliminates the need for a separate Ethernet cable.

TV Wall Mounts and On-Wall Shelving

SANUS will be debuting two new Super Slim wall mounts for flat-panel TVs. SANUS’ Super Slim mount category offers brackets that allow televisions to be mounted as close to the wall as possible, accentuating the thin appearance of flat-panel screens. The new VLF320 and VMF322 mounts allow TV placement incredibly close to the wall while also offering full-motion capabilities. The VLF320 offers 20 inches of extension for TVs 37 to 84 in. The VMF322 offers 22 inches of extension for TVs 26 to 47 in. Both models feature an integrated cable management system that hides all wiring and cabling within the extension arm. With easy tilting capabilities, the mounts can be tilted with the touch of a finger, allowing for effortless adjustment of the TV’s viewing angle. Post-install leveling adjustments ensure TVs are perfectly positioned after hanging. The VLF320 includes decorative covers that conceal mounting hardware for a finished look. Both mounts will be available in early 2012.

Another exciting new product from SANUS, the VMA401 on-wall shelf is designed to hold components up to 15 lbs. The VMA401’s slim profile (1.38 in.) works well with mounted ultra-thin TVs because the shelf can be mounted directly below the TV for a seamless look. The VMA401 features integrated cable management for hiding and organizing cables. For those looking for a two or three shelf solution, multiple VMA401 units can be combined to provide a one-piece look. The product will be available in early 2012.

AV Furniture

SANUS is excited to offer CES attendees a look at several new offerings from its Basic Series furniture line. Expertly crafted for high performance and value, all of the new Basic Series furniture can be assembled quickly without tools. New additions to the line include the BFV546 with a modern two-tone walnut finish and dual pullout media drawers for storage. Another new model, the BFV157 features a heavy-gauge steel construction and open design to maximize airflow, while the new BFV348 provides a classic look and feel with a distressed black finish.

All Basic Series models are compatible with the brand new SANUS Furniture Mount System (FMS), a unique TV mounting solution that allows 32 to 60 in. televisions to be secured to a furniture-mounted pillar rather than to the wall. The FMS features a built-in tilting TV mount, height adjustment up to 10 in. and cable cutouts for routing wires behind the pillar. Small components can be easily concealed behind the pillar without tools.

Basic Series furniture is also compatible with the SANUS Elements™ ELM701 anti-tip strap, which allows TVs up to 60 in., and the furniture they sit on, to be secured to the wall as an alternative to traditional TV wall mounting.

All Basic Series furniture models will be available in early 2012, and previewed at CES.

HDMI Cables

Several consumer electronics accessories will also be debuting in the SANUS booth during CES 2012. Among them include new pivoting HDMI cables featuring a 180-degree swiveling connector, Super Slim HDMI cables with 40 percent shorter connectors, and a 90-degree HDMI adapter with a depth of just .3 in. which allows cables to be routed in the smallest of spaces. All three models are Ethernet enabled and can handle 1080p video resolution and beyond for future generation displays. The cables are now available for purchase. The 90-degree HDMI adapter will be available in Second Quarter 2012.

Media interested in previewing these and other innovative consumer electronics products should visit SANUS at CES in Central Hall Booth #9433 of the Las Vegas Convention Center from January 10-13.

AV Racks and Accessories

The SANUS EcoSystem™, a fully customizable AV rack accessory that serves as a single power source for all low-voltage equipment, will also be on display at CES. The EcoSystem includes a multi-volt power supply, which consists of power switches, USB ports and 12 outlets with both 12V and 5V options. The accessory also includes a thermostat kit that actively monitors temperature inside the rack. Should the temperature inside the rack reach 85 degrees, the thermostat automatically activates fans, cooling the rack to a maximum of 75 degrees. Other features that make up the SANUS EcoSystem include LED task and work lights, multiple fan options, a thermometer and wire. The SANUS EcoSystem is expected to be available for purchase in February 2012.

Another main attraction at the show will be SANUS’ all new Component 2100 Series AV racks. Offered in various sizes including a 15U model (CFR2115), 27U model (CFR2127), 36U model, (CFR2136), and a 44U model, (CFR2144), the racks feature removable side and back panels for easier access to components. A 3U panel located at the back of the racks can be placed on top or bottom of the rack’s rear door for customization in wiring. Vented shelves with backstops, and cooling shelves at the top and bottom of each rack ensure proper airflow for AV equipment. New add-on accessories are now available, including vented blanking panels and shelves, ganging kit, tie bars, solid steel blanking panels and power strips. The Component 2100 Series racks are now available for purchase.

The study was conducted by CBS Vision, a Las Vegas research company owned by CBS Corporation. The full report can be
seen here.

The findings show that  consumers are viewing their TVs from many different angles on a regular basis,
and expect a consistently bright and crisp screen image.

“We wanted to understand how important wide-angle luminance – a combination of off-axis viewing and brightness - was to consumers,” said 3M Physicist Dr. Dave Lamb, the scientific advisor on the study.
“We learned that consumers don’t always realize that the way they watch their LCD impacts the quality of what they see.”

Key consumer findings of the study included:

• 46% typically view their primary TV off axis (defined as any viewing angle that is more than 15% from center)
  when watching alone; 67% do so when watching with other people
• 84% at times view their TV off axis when watching alone; 87% reported other people at times viewing their TV off axis
•  44% were initially not aware of a difference in picture quality when viewed off axis

• An intuitive design that’s easier to navigate
• A new search function providing quick access to product information
• Color-coded product categories
• Photos, videos and downloads on every product page
• Videos explaining the importance of TV mounting and selecting the right mount
• Faster page load times
• Store locator (based on zip code or geolocation data)

Awarded annually, the “Best of 2011″ includes the best of the best from the world of consumer electronics, home theater and audiophile products as judged by the editorial staff at HTR.

The SANUS CFR144 is a sturdy 44U rack than comes preloaded with shelves and blanking panels and can handle up to 1,000 lbs of AV gear. SANUS will be shipping an updated version of their pre-loaded 100 series racks in late December.

You can read the full review on the CFR144 from HTR’s Andrew Robinson here. 

The CFR144 was listed as the runner-up in the Furniture and Racks Category of this year’s awards.  The editors noted:

“For those looking for the custom look of a Middle Atlantic rack without the cost, Sanus brings to market an option filled rack system for around $1,500 that will give you a chance to install your gear like a pro.”

Among the numbers that caught my eye:

• For the first time in the history of the survey (which began in 1975) U.S. households with no TV sets  is expected to decline ( 114.7 million in 2012 from 115.9 million in 2011) That is a decline of nearly 1 percent.
• 3 percent of homes are TV free.
• Homes with 3 or more TVs increased from 55% in 2011 (of homes with TVs) to 56% in 2012.
• Average weekly TV viewing per household increased nearly an hour per week to a record 59 hours and 28 minutes per week.
• Homes with DVD players is expected to decline, to 85 percent in 2012 from a peak of 88 percent.

A snapshot from the report includes:

• From 2008-2010, injuries related to instability of television, furniture, appliances averaged 43,400 per year, 58% which involved children under the age of 18.
• 19,200 (44%) of accidents involved televisions (or TV and furniture) falling.
• In the past decade, 293 of these accidents resulted in deaths, of which 245 (or 84%) involved children under the age of 8.

Secure your TV to furniture with the ELM701 Anti-Tip Strap

The VLF320  is a full-motion wall mount designed for TVs 37”-65.”   Offering 20 inches of extension and a depth of only 1.23,”  the VLF320 is the perfect mount for ultra-thin LED and LCD TVs.  Other features include:

• Finger-tip tilt for effortless TV angle adjustments
• Integrated cable management through the extension arms to conceal cables
• Post-install level adjustments to ensure perfect positioning after hanging

The VLF320  will be displayed at the 2012 International CES, which runs January 10-13, 2012 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Honorees will also be displayed at CES Unveiled: the Official Press Event of the International CES from 4-7 p.m. on Sunday, January 8 in the Venetian Ballroom of the Venetian.

The VMA302 Mount Adapter can be attached to any VESA 100 x 100 compatible TV mount or combined with select SANUS models including the MF215 to provide 360 degrees of motion. No tools are required-just grab it and go! When paired with a full-motion mount, the adapter ensures the perfect viewing angle is always available.

Product features:

• Custom molded design: Ensures a snug fit.
• Release tab: Enables easy removal of iPad 2 from the mount.
• Speaker holes: Provides full access to all iPad 2 speakers, buttons and cameras.
• Virtual Axis 3D^™ cup-shaped faceplate: Allows 360 degrees of motion for landscape and portrait viewing when mounted on SANUS mount models MF202, MF209, MF215, MC1A and MD115.

Perfect for hands-free iPad 2 use in the office or kitchen

Designed for small TVs 13”-26”, the VSL12 offers a depth of just .62 inches maximize the sleek look of thin LCD and LED TVs.  It also features a unique two-piece design for quick and easy installation.

The episode, which airs Sunday, October 9 at 7 PM CST, focuses on the story of 9-year-old Anaiah Rucker whose leg was amputated after being hit by a truck.  Rucker was severely injured after attempting to shield the impact of the vehicle from her younger sister.  The Extreme Makeover team built a home for Rucker’s family in Madison, Georgia.

SANUS provided two VMPL50A wall mounts for the project, one which was installed in the house’s master bedroom and the other in Anaiah’s playroom. A donated full-motion VMAA26D wall mount was installed in the living room and also allows the TV to be viewed in the family kitchen. RF Designs, Inc. provided the design and AV installation work for the project.

For more information on Extreme Makeover: Home Addition and to view the entire episode online (after Oct.  9) go to http://abc.go.com/shows/extreme-makeover-home-edition/episode-guide

• ELM4303 2.5′ Super Slim HDMI Cable
• ELM4306 6′ Super Slim HDMI Cable
• ELM4308  8′ Super Slim HDMI Cable

• 1080p video resolution and beyond for next generation displays
• 3D capable
• Integrated Ethernet cable for high-speed Internet connectivity
• Short connectors for easy installation behind mounted TVs
• Ultra-flexible cable design bends easily without kinking
• Perfect for use behind wall mounted ultra-thin TVs

Super flexible design

We wanted to touch on a few more exciting new products we will be debuting at this year’s show.

Mounts

SANUS will be debuting two new Super Slim full-motion wall mounts for flat-panel TVs at CEDIA 2011. . The new VLF320 and VMF322 mounts allow TV placement incredibly close to the wall while also offering full-motion capabilities. The VLF320 offers 20 inches of extension for TVs 37″ – 65″. The VMF322 offers 22 inches of extension for TVs 26″ – 47″.  Both models feature an integrated cable management system that hides all wiring and cabling within the extension arm. With integrated tilting capabilities, the VLF320 and VMF322 can be tilted with the touch of a finger, allowing for effortless adjustment of the TV’s viewing angle. Post-install leveling adjustments ensure TVs are perfectly positioned after hanging. The VLF320 includes decorative covers that conceal mounting hardware for a finished look. Both mounts will be available in early 2012.

Furniture

SANUS is excited to offer a first look at several new offerings from its Basic Series furniture line at CEDIA 2011. Expertly crafted for high performance and value, all of the new Basic Series furniture can be assembled quickly without tools. New additions to the line include the BFAV546 with a modern two-tone walnut finish and dual pullout media drawers for storage. Another new model, the BFV157 features a heavy-gauge steel construction and open design to maximize airflow, while the new BFV348 provides a classic look and feel with a distressed black finish.   All models are expected to be shipping in early 2012.

These are just a few of our exciting new product offerings we will be showing off in Booth #4154 over the next few days.  Make sure to stop by and check them out!

Throughout the years, CEDIA has always been an important trade show for SANUS.  Not only does it give an opportunity to debut exciting new products, it also provides a venue where our product and marketing teams can connect with home AV dealers and custom installers.  This feedback has proven to be invaluable as we continue to innovate our products.

SANUS will be featuring many new products at Booth #4154 this year.  One product offering that we are particularly excited to debut is the SANUS EcoSystem™  Designed to create a seamless interaction between low-voltage and household line voltage, the SANUS EcoSystem includes a multi-volt power supply, which consists of power switches, USB ports and 12 outlets with both 12V and 5V options. It also includes a thermostat kit that actively monitors temperature inside the rack. Should the temperature inside the rack reach 85 degrees, the thermostat automatically activates fans, cooling the rack to a maximum of 75 degrees.

Sanus EcoSystem multi-volt power supply (back)

Other accessories that make up the SANUS EcoSystem include LED task and work lights, multiple fan options, a thermometer and wire.

SANUS will also be showing off the updated 100 Series racks at CEDIA 2011.  Improvements to the 100 series include:

• removable side and back panels for easier access to components.
• A 3U panel located at the back of the racks can be placed on top or bottom of the rack’s rear door for customization in wiring.
• Vented shelves with backstops
• cooling shelves at the top and bottom of each rack

The newly redesigned Component 100 Series AV racks will be  offered in four sizes including a 15U model (CFR2115), 27U model (CFR2127), 36U model, (CFR2136), and a 44U model, (CFR2144).

Make sure to check back in next week to hear about several other new products SANUS will be showing off at CEDIA 2011, including several new Super Slim wall mounts and new furniture!

2011 EXC!TE Award

These along with many other new products (which we will discuss in more detail next week!) can be seen at the SANUS booth (#4154) during CEDIA, Sept 10-12.

ELM4308 Super Slim HDMI Cable

VMA 302 Ipad 2 Mount Adapter

You may occasionally hear from some of my other SANUS marketing colleagues, but for the most part, I’ll be the main proprietor of the blog.  My name is Ryan Mathre, PR/Marketing specialist with SANUS.  Along with various email and digital marketing duties, I also manage social media for SANUS and encourage you to follow us on Twitter and Facebook as well!

We encourage viewer comments but if you have a product specific question that you would like to ask in private, please feel free to fill out the comment form to the right.