DIY Measuring Tips: Perfect Electronic Dart Board Height Every Time

Essential tools for accurate measuring

Before mounting, gather these tools to set the electronic dart board height precisely: a quality tape measure (metric and imperial markings), a laser level or spirit level, a pencil or painter’s tape for marking, a stud finder (if mounting to drywall), a plumb line for highly accurate vertical alignment, and a helper to hold the board while you fasten brackets. Using the right tools prevents re-drilling and protects your wall and board.

Step-by-step: Measure and mark the correct height

Follow these steps to ensure the board is perfect every time:

• Step 1 — Clear and level the area: Remove furniture and ensure the floor is flat. If the floor slopes, measure from the higher point or use shims under a mount to compensate.
• Step 2 — Mark the bullseye height: Measure 5'8 (1.73 m) from the finished floor up. Use a laser level or plumb line to transfer the point to the wall. Mark the center with a small pencil dot or painter’s tape.
• Step 3 — Account for board depth: Electronic dart boards often sit slightly off the wall due to their casing or cabinet. Confirm whether your throw distance standard (2.44 m for soft-tip) measures to the front of the board or the mounting surface. Mark mounting locations accordingly.
• Step 4 — Find studs and measure mounting points: Use a stud finder to locate secure anchors. If studs aren’t available, use reliable wall anchors rated for the board’s weight. Measure mounting bracket positions relative to the bullseye mark and transfer them to the wall.
• Step 5 — Temporary mount and re-check: Hang the board temporarily and re-check the bullseye height, level, and vertical alignment. Use the spirit or laser level and a plumb line to confirm accuracy.
• Step 6 — Secure permanently: Once everything aligns, fully secure the board to the wall using recommended screws or the cabinet hardware. Re-check alignment after tightening.

Measuring the throw line (oche) correctly

After setting electronic dart board height, mark the oche or throwing line. For electronic boards, the usual standard is 8'0 (2.44 m) from the oche to the front of the board. Measure from the board face (not the wall) unless your board’s manual specifies otherwise. For boards mounted in cabinets, measure to the cabinet face. For exact placement, measure horizontally on the floor from a plumb line dropped from the board's center.

Leveling tips: ensure the board is perfectly straight

Even a small tilt changes how darts stick and score. Use a bubble level across the top of the board or a laser level projected across the board’s diameter. If your board has adjustable mounting brackets, fine-tune until the board is dead level. For soft-tip sensors, consistent perpendicular orientation prevents stray scoring caused by off-angle hits.

Adjustments for uneven floors and ceilings

If your floor slopes or the mounting wall is uneven, measure the bullseye height from the same plane players will stand on (typically the higher point of a sloped floor) to keep throws consistent. Use shims behind the board or adjustable bracket spacers to level the board visually and functionally. For basements with low ceilings, ensure you still maintain the required oche distance; consider moving the board to a longer room if space doesn't allow for the full throw distance.

Mounting in cabinets, on doors, or portable setups

Many operators use cabinet-style frames for electronic dart boards. When using a cabinet, measure the bullseye to the room floor, not the cabinet base. If mounting on a door, ensure the door can be securely fixed to prevent movement during play. For portable setups, use a weighted stand and verify the bullseye height and lateral stability each time before play.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Several small mistakes cause big problems: measuring to the wrong reference point (wall vs. board face), ignoring board depth, not checking level, and failing to compensate for uneven floors. Avoid these by double-checking all dimensions, confirming where your throw distance is measured from (manufacturer’s manual), and using a second person to verify marks and level.

Troubleshooting misaligned games and scoring errors

If scores seem off or darts cluster unpredictably, re-check these: bullseye height, board level, oche position, and board depth. For electronic boards, run the board’s calibration and sensor diagnostics (consult your manual). If the cabinet or wall mounting is loose, tighten or replace hardware. Persistent scoring anomalies may indicate sensor or wiring issues—contact manufacturer support.

Comparison: Common setup scenarios and recommended measurements

Use the following recommendations for typical locations: