Power-boards in drop ceilings for lighting - Page 1
Forum section: electronics / beginners

author: Whales
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2019, 10:13:21 am
content: Years ago I remember seeing a photo of power-boards (AKA power-strips) installed above a drop ceiling. It was done so that non-sparkies could install the lighting later (no wiring required, just "plug it in").Q: Is this method common?Q: What is it called?I'm after pictures of this practice, but I can't find the right search terms.

author: PTR_1275
author_rank: Frequent Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2019, 12:24:36 pm
content: Everything I’ve seen has used clipsal 413 type outlets for each light. I’ve never seen a multi outlet version though

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 10, 2019, 01:47:27 pm
content: Quote from: PTR_1275 on January 10, 2019, 12:24:36 pmI see those used for exhaust fans in domestic situations.Can't say I've seen much in the way of commercial lighting installations.

author: Whales
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2019, 09:40:20 pm
content: Thanks PTR and Brumby. Looks like it might have been a one-off photo then, not as popular as I suspected.Looks like there's also theClipsal 414. Are these outlets rated or designed any differently vs using a junction box and a standard power board?Context: before asking an installer/contractors to do this, want to know if it might have any safety pitfalls. I presume not, but I'm suspicious given how I can't find photos of it again.

author: rstofer
author_rank: Super Contributor
timestamp: January 10, 2019, 10:51:52 pm
content: Here's one system. It's not the one I used many years ago but it's a start.http://www.pg-enlighten.com/index.php/manufacturer/american-cable-systems

author: Brumby
author_rank: Unknown
timestamp: January 11, 2019, 02:03:15 am
content: Quote from: Whales on January 10, 2019, 09:40:20 pmNot sure about safety pitfalls - but without some specific input one way or another, I would be anxious about the issues Ididn'tforesee.Two things I would be wary of are:1. On board circuit breaker. Certainly unlikely to happen in a properly loaded circuit, but if the overload breaker tripped, it would be a nuisance to get to. On the other hand, if itdidtrip, you would probably want to check it out anyway.2. Unused/exposed sockets. If laid out in a manner where dust could accumulate that could hold moisture, would it be a fire risk? Same for foreign objects (like deposits from unwelcome roof dwellers). Could it be a source of nuisance tripping of a safety switch if on a circuit with one in place? (Easily fixed by covering unused sockets - e.g. fitting plastic safety plugs.)These are both somewhat unlikely - but then so are the events that have shaped safety standards for decades. I know I've said this before, but the things that worry me are the ones I haven't thought about.

author: stevelup
author_rank: Regular Contributor
timestamp: January 15, 2019, 02:51:10 pm
content: Look at Hager Klik and more specifically KLDS which are the distribution boards.These are very common in commercial premises in the UK.https://www.hager.co.uk/product-catalogue/lighting-connection-controls/klik/klik-4-pin/klik-4-pin-marshalling-boxes/klds12/46905.htm