How to Mount an Electronic Dart Board at the Correct Height

Sources for standards include the World Darts Federation (WDF) and major electronic dart machine manufacturers. Note: while the bull height is universally 1.73 m, the soft-tip (electronic) throw distance commonly uses an 8 ft standard—especially for coin-operated and commercial electronic machines.

Tools and materials you’ll need before mounting

Gather the right tools ahead of time to ensure a fast and precise installation. Typical tools and materials:

• Tape measure (imperial & metric markings preferred)
• Laser level or spirit level
• Pencil and painter’s tape for marking
• Stud finder (for drywall installations)
• Drill and appropriate bits
• Screwdriver / socket set
• Appropriate fasteners: wood screws, lag bolts, masonry anchors (depending on wall)
• Wall backing board or mounting plate (optional but recommended for heavy units)
• Cable clips or raceway for power cable management

Step-by-step installation: mounting an electronic dart board at the correct height

Follow these steps for a reliable, regulation-compliant install that respects the keyword electronic dart board height and delivers consistent play.

Step 1 — Choose the location

Pick a wall with enough clear space for the throwing line and for players to step back safely. Minimum recommended clearances:

• Width: 1.5–2.0 m (5–6.5 ft) to allow room for players
• Height: Clear overhead space to 2.5 m (8.2 ft) for lighting and spectator lines
• Floor: Even, level surface to ensure accurate measuring from floor to bull

Step 2 — Find studs or use proper anchors

For drywall, locate studs using a stud finder. Heavy electronic dart machines or stand-up cabinets should be anchored into studs or solid backing. If mounting to brick or concrete, use masonry anchors rated for the weight of the board and backing plate.

Step 3 — Measure and mark the bullseye height (electronic dart board height)

Measure 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 m) from the finished floor up and mark the center point for the bullseye. Use a laser level or plumb line to ensure the mark is vertical and centered where you want the board. If your site has an uneven floor, measure from the highest point where players will stand to ensure fairness.

Step 4 — Mount the bracket or backing plate

Many electronic dart boards include a mounting bracket—follow the manufacturer’s template. If you’re using a custom backing board, attach it securely to studs or masonry with lag bolts. Use a level when attaching to ensure the backing is plumb (perfectly vertical).

Step 5 — Hang the board and confirm bull alignment

With the bracket mounted, hang the board and double-check that the bullseye aligns with your 1.73 m mark. Adjust as needed. Use a spirit or laser level across the board face to confirm it is not twisted or tilted.

Step 6 — Mark the throwing line (oche)

Determine the throw distance based on your board type: for most electronic/soft-tip boards, mark the oche at 8 ft (2.44 m) from the face of the board. For steel-tip or mixed play where steel-tip rules are used, mark at 7 ft 9.25 in (2.37 m). Measure carefully from the front of the board (not the wall) to the toe line. For diagonal distance references, some rulebooks provide a diagonal measurement from the bull to the oche—if required, compute and mark accordingly.

Step 7 — Secure power and cable management

Electronic dart boards require a nearby power outlet. Avoid trailing cables across the playing area—use surface-mounted raceways or cable clips to route power down the wall to the outlet. If needed, install an inlet socket behind the board so the cord is hidden and protected.

Step 8 — Final verification and safety checks

Before you open for play, verify the following:

• Bullseye height is 1.73 m (5 ft 8 in) from finished floor
• Throwing line is measured from the front of the board and marked correctly
• Board is securely fastened and plumb
• Power connections are secure and protected
• Surround protection (board surround or backboard) is in place to protect walls

Mounting tips by venue: home, bar, event space

Home installations

Home installs often favor aesthetics and convenience. Consider a recessed or framed backboard to protect walls and hide cables. For rental properties, use a free-standing backing or a WillDarts stand-up cabinet to avoid drilling anchors into walls.

Bars and commercial venues

Commercial installs should prioritize durability and safety. Use a plywood or MDF backing plate anchored to studs or masonry, lock-in mounting brackets supplied by the manufacturer, and industrial-rated cable management. Place protective flooring or mats in front of the oche to protect floors.

Event venues and tournaments

For tournament play, strictly adhere to the regulation measurements and bring a laser level and tape measure for verification. Use removable mounting solutions or portable tournament boards when events are short-term.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them (electronic dart board height)

• Measuring from the wrong point—always measure to the center of the bull and from the front of the board to the oche.
• Ignoring floor irregularities—measure from the playing surface where players will stand.
• Poorly secured mounts—use the correct anchors and ensure the board is plumb to prevent shift during play.
• Improper power placement—avoid extension cords across play areas; install outlets or inlets behind the board.

How WillDarts supports proper installation and why choose our machines

WillDarts was founded in 2015 and has grown into one of the leading electric dart machine manufacturers in China. Our main products include electric stand-up dart machines and wall-mounted electronic dart machines, designed for bars, entertainment centers, clubs, homes, and competitive events.

Key strengths of WillDarts:

• 10+ years focused on R&D, production, and sales of dart machine equipment
• R&D team experienced in electronic scoring systems, reliable mechanical design, and user interfaces
• More than 20 patent certifications and passed CE, ROHS, and other quality and safety certifications
• Products widely adopted in commercial venues and hobbyist homes
• Support for dealers worldwide—actively recruiting distribution partners to grow the global presence

Choosing a WillDarts machine ensures you receive clear installation guidance, mounting templates, and commercial-grade components designed to simplify mounting at the correct electronic dart board height and ensure reliable play. Our stand-up machines are particularly useful where wall drilling is restricted or where portability is required.

Comparing mounting & distance standards — quick reference