How long should monitor cables be when using a monitor arm?

When routing cables through or alongside a monitor arm, cable length needs to accommodate the arm's full range of motion without pulling taut or leaving excessive slack. As a guideline: a monitor arm with 18"–24" reach needs cables approximately 6–8 ft long from the desk cable port to the monitor. Standard monitor power cables (6 ft) and video cables (6 ft) are usually adequate if the arm is mounted within 12"–18" of the wall outlet or desk power strip. If the arm has a very long reach or swings to a position far from the cable source, use 10 ft cables to avoid tension. Loop any excess cable through a cable clip or velcro tie at the arm joint to keep it tidy. OfficeFurniture2go.com carries monitor arms with integrated cable management channels — call 1-800-460-0858.