T. McQuinn wrote:
I realize that local codes can vary, but I'm wondering if this is ever
allowed. I have an application where I need to power 2 alarm
transformers. They are 'bricks' that convert to 12 volts and have a
screw that permanently attaches them to an outlet (a long screw that
replace the short one used to hold the outlet cover on). 12 volts comes
out of them. There would be no 120v cords above the drop ceiling, only
low voltage. So in this scenario would I be so in violation of the NEC
if I put an outlet above the drop ceiling? I won't bother chasing down
the local code if this is an outrageous idea.

If you install the outlet in a box w/ cover, etc., and all it takes is
removing a tile from the ceiling to gain access, I'm perfectly
comfortable w/ that.

I've seen it in many commercial places, for example I was standing at a
service counter in one of the big chains just the other morning waiting
to meet someone and observed they had their checkouts powered by plugins
to the ceiling outlet boxes via a power cord to outlets (110V) on the
ceiling at about 30-ft which powered another power mast for four-six
registers/mast. Thought that somewhat interesting rather than being
permanently wired. There were portions of that ceiling that were open,
others that did have dropped ceilings in certain other departments but
the local registers were hooked up via the same mast arrangement I noticed.

Just an observation and imo, I don't know chapter/verse of NEC for the
situation but I don't think that the loose ceiling tiles count for
finished wall/ceiling.

--