How to Install a Monitor Arm on My Tabletop Safely

Desk Clamp Mount — Safety Requirements

Desk clamp arms grip the tabletop edge using a C-clamp. Before clamping:

• Edge thickness:confirm your tabletop edge is within the arm's clamp range (most clamps accept 0.4″–3.5″; verify your specific arm)
• Clamp position:place the clamp at least 6″ from the corner of the tabletop — clamping at the very corner can cause edge splitting on MDF
• Protective pad:use the rubber or felt pad included with the arm between the clamp jaw and the tabletop surface to prevent surface indentation
• Tightening:tighten the clamp until it holds firmly — do not over-tighten; the tabletop surface should show no indentation after removal

Grommet Mount — Safety Requirements

Grommet mount arms pass a bolt through the tabletop hole and tighten with a nut from below. This is more secure than desk clamp for heavier monitors:

• Washer required:always use the included large washer under the nut — it distributes the clamping force across a larger area and prevents the nut from pulling through the tabletop material
• Torque:tighten until snug — do not over-torque; MDF and bamboo can crack under excessive bolt pressure
• Verify grommet hole diameter:standard arm bolts are 25mm; your grommet hole should be at least 25mm (most standard grommets accommodate this)

Weight Distribution Check

After installing the arm and mounting the monitor, position the arm at full extension and check that the desk doesn't tip toward the monitor side. If the desk feels unbalanced, redistribute equipment on the surface or add weight to the opposite side. An unbalanced load accelerates motor wear on the leg carrying excess weight.