Whether it's a new smart TV or the one you already own, mounting your television on a wall opens up a whole new world of entertainment possibilities. But if you're not experienced with running cables through the wall or installing electrical wiring, it may be a wise idea to hire a licensed electrician.

If you're the DIY type, however, the process is relatively straightforward and shouldn't cost too much. The most important thing is to have all your tools ready before you start. This means things like a stud finder, a drill (ideally with a screwdriver bit attachment) and a power drill, a Phillips screwdriver and a pencil or tape measure to make sure you're following the proper measurements. And don't forget a level to make sure the bracket is on the correct wall line and that the TV will hang properly once you're done.

Once you've got your tools, begin by locating the best spot for your TV. It's usually a good idea to mount it on a wall where it can be easily seen from the seating area in your living room or home theater. It should also be in an area with access to a power outlet and a cable or satellite hook-up.

Next, figure out how high you want your TV to be mounted. If it's going to be a lot higher than you typically sit, consider using a corner mount to get the most out of your viewing angle. It's also a good idea to check for reflections and glare from sunlight or other sources.

Finally, use the stud finder to locate a stud in the wall where you plan to mount your TV. You'll probably need at least a span of two studs for the mount. If you're using a heavy-duty mount that can support a larger television, you might need more than two studs.

The next step is to purchase and assemble the TV mounting kit, which will include both the part of the bracket that attaches to the wall and the VESA (standardized) part that attaches to the back of your TV or monitor. Most kits have the screws and hardware you need, so refer to the instructions that came with your mounting kit if you're not sure how to proceed.

Once the bracket is on the wall, line up the pilot holes on the mount with those on the wall and drill them in. Be sure to drill the screws far enough into the wall that they'll be secure once you finish. If you're not using lag screws that come with the kit, you'll need to pick up a pack of them from a hardware store or home center. Once the bracket is firmly attached to the wall, test it by holding the TV up against it. Be careful not to over tighten the screws, which can damage or strip the screw heads on your TV chassis. Once the TV is firmly hung, it's time to attach the mounting plate to the TV and install any necessary wiring.tv install