How can I hit studs and avoid cables when installing a TV mount?
Although you TV set may be light enough so that wall anchors will support the weight they may pull loose when the set gets re-positioned and adjusted.
Always try to secure the mount to a framing member (stud). Most mounts are designed for this installation as they have openings spaced at 16 inches (the distance between each studs' center).
A stud sensor is the easiest way to precisely find a stud, but locating a stud behind the wall isn't that difficult with out one if you know what to look for:
-Tapping along a dry-walled wall listening for a duller less hollow sound is good.
-looking for a nail head that has popped up works.
-floor molding is usually nailed through to studs.
switch and receptacle boxes are sometimes nailed off to studs (on one side of the box or the other).
You should be aware of cable and plumbing that may be in the vicinity. Usually electric cable is ran through studs so that it is recessed back from the wall about 2 inches so that an 1 5/8th's drywall screw won't damage it. Plumbing is also usually protected by the same location and/or a metal stud plate directly over it. Drill slowly and cautiously if in doubt.