Chief CMS261 — Column cut-off adapter for projector ceiling mounts
The Chief CMS261 is a column cut-off adapter designed for AV integrators who need to fine-tune the drop length of a Chief projector ceiling mount. When a Chief extension column is cut to a shorter, site-specific length, the threaded end is lost — the CMS261 bolts onto the cut end to restore the standard 1.5" NPT thread, making the column fully compatible with Chief projector mounts and ceiling plates again. The adapter adds 5,08 cm to the overall installation height and ships with all necessary set screws and bolts for a secure, stable connection. It is the go-to solution for custom-height projector installations in classrooms, auditoriums, and boardrooms where off-the-shelf column lengths do not match the ceiling-to-screen geometry.

Custom-Length Column Recovery
Chief extension columns are typically supplied in standard lengths, but many real-world installations — tiered auditoriums, sloped ceilings, or rooms with specific throw-distance requirements — demand a non-standard drop. Cutting the column to the exact length solves the geometry problem, but it removes the NPT thread that the projector mount attaches to. The CMS261 bolts onto the cut end and recreates that thread, so the installer is not locked into pre-cut lengths and can still use the full Chief ecosystem of mounts and ceiling plates. In practice this means a projector can be positioned at precisely the right height for optimal image size and focus without any compromise on mount compatibility or structural integrity.

Secure Hardware Included, No Site Procurement Needed
The CMS261 ships complete with the set screws and bolts required for a safe, stable connection to the cut column. In commercial AV installations, missing fasteners are a common cause of install delays, and substituting non-specified hardware can void warranties or introduce safety risk with a heavy suspended projector. Having the correct hardware in the box means the adapter can be installed immediately on site without a trip to a hardware store or waiting for parts. For integrators running tight project schedules in schools or corporate environments, this small detail matters.