Removing Monitor Arms: A Step-By-Step Guide From Your Desk

Removing a monitor arm from a desk can be a tricky process, and it's important to take the necessary precautions to avoid any damage or injury. Depending on the type of monitor and stand you have, the removal process can vary. In this guide, we will outline the steps to safely remove a monitor arm from a desk, including identifying the different components and understanding their connections. By following these steps, you can confidently detach your monitor arm and make any desired adjustments or replacements.

Disassemble the monitor stand components one by one

To remove a monitor arm from your desk, it is recommended to disassemble the monitor stand components one by one. This process can be tricky, and specific steps may vary depending on the monitor you use, but here is a general guide:

First, remove all the cables connected to the monitor, including the power cable and any cables from the PC. Ensure you have a screwdriver to remove any screws from the monitor stand.

Now, let's move on to disassembling the monitor stand components:

The Base

The base is the surface of the stand that provides stability when placed on a desk. To remove it, invert the monitor and look for a screw that holds it in place. Most monitors have a hook that you can rotate anti-clockwise to remove the screw. Once the screw is removed, gently take out the base plate.

The Vertical Stand

After removing the base, check for any connection points in the vertical part. This section likely connects to the vertical stand holder. Refer to the user manual to understand how the stand connects to the monitor. To remove the vertical stand, check for screws holding it in place and remove them. If there are no screws, look for buttons near or on the vertical stand. Some monitors have a dedicated button that you need to press to remove the stand. Press the button and pull the stand outwards. If it still doesn't come off, a small amount of mechanical oil can be applied to the joints to help loosen it. If your monitor doesn't have screws or buttons, you may be able to gently pull the stand away from the monitor, ensuring you hold it by the sides and not the screen.

The Vertical Stand Holder

To remove the holder that connects the vertical stand, you may need to remove the back panel of the monitor. Since this component is connected from the inside, you might have to take the monitor apart. If you're unsure about disassembling it, consider taking it to an electronic repair shop. Briefly, the process involves removing the back panel, disconnecting all cables, and then unscrewing any connections between the vertical stand holder and the monitor.

By following these steps, you can safely disassemble the monitor stand components one by one, allowing you to remove the monitor arm from your desk. Remember to refer to your specific monitor's user manual for detailed instructions.

Remove the base from the monitor

To remove the base from the monitor, you will need to invert the monitor and look for a screw that holds the base in place. Most monitors have a hook that you can rotate in an anti-clockwise direction to remove the screw. Once you have located the screw, take it out and gently remove the base plate from the monitor.

If your monitor has a budget stand, the base and the vertical stand may be attached as one unit. In this case, you can simply unscrew the base from the monitor and remove them both at the same time. However, if your monitor stand is composed of separate components, you will need to remove the base first before moving on to the vertical stand.

Before beginning the removal process, it is important to disconnect all cables connected to the monitor, including the power cable and any cables from the PC. Additionally, make sure you have a screwdriver on hand to remove any screws from the monitor stand.

It is also recommended to refer to the monitor's user manual for specific instructions on removing the base. You can usually find the model name and number on the front or back of the monitor, which will help you download the correct user manual from the internet.

Remove the vertical stand

To remove the vertical stand of your monitor, you will need to refer to the user manual to understand how the stand connects to the monitor.

Firstly, remove all cables connecting to the monitor, including the power cable and any cables from the PC. Then, check for any screws holding the vertical stand in place and remove them with a screwdriver. If there are no screws, look for any buttons near or on the vertical stand. Some monitors, like Dell and Acer, have a dedicated button that you need to press to remove the vertical stand. Press the button and pull the stand outwards. If the stand still does not come out, a small amount of mechanical oil can be applied to the joints to help it budge.

If your monitor does not have any screws or buttons, you may be able to remove the vertical stand by gently pulling it away from the monitor. Ensure that you do not hold the monitor by its screen; instead, hold it firmly by the sides.

If you are unsure about any part of the process, refer to the user manual for guidance.

Remove the holder that connects the vertical stand

To remove the holder that connects the vertical stand, you might need to remove the back panel of your monitor. This component is connected to the monitor from the inside, so you may not be able to remove the holder without taking the monitor apart. If you are unsure about disassembling the monitor, take it to a local electronic repair shop to remove the holder. The process of disassembling monitors can vary depending on the model, so it is important to refer to the user manual for guidance.

• Remove all the screws on the back panel of the monitor.
• Gently take the back panel out, ensuring that you have removed all the cables connecting to the ports and buttons on the panel.
• Once the back panel is free, unscrew any screws connecting the vertical stand holder.
• Reattach all the cables and reassemble the monitor.

It is important to note that removing the monitor stand can be a tricky job, and incorrect procedures may damage your monitor. Always refer to the user manual for specific instructions on removing the stand. Additionally, ensure that you have a screwdriver to remove any screws from the monitor stand.

Unscrew the VESA mount

Unscrewing the VESA mount is the final step in removing a monitor arm from a desk. Before you get to this stage, you will have already detached the monitor from the stand, removed the base, and taken out the vertical stand. Now you are ready to unscrew the VESA mount.

First, lay the monitor face down on a safe surface, such as the floor. This will prevent any damage to the screen. Then, locate the VESA mount. This is the connector that joins the stand to the monitor. You should see a screw that holds the VESA mount in place. Use a screwdriver to carefully remove this screw. With the screw removed, gently detach the VESA mount from the monitor.

If you are having trouble exposing the screw, it may be that your monitor has a spring latch that needs to be located and depressed. You can then access the screw and remove the VESA mount.

Frequently asked questions