What does Article 410 require concerning the connection method for portable luminaires?

Article 410 of the National Electrical Code addresses the requirements for luminaires, including portable luminaires. The correct choice emphasizes the need for flexible connections with approved connectors, which allow for ease of use and adaptability in various settings. This flexibility is essential for portable luminaires, as they are not intended for fixed installations and should be easily movable while still maintaining safety.

Approved connectors are necessary to ensure that the connections are secure and capable of handling the electrical load without risk of disconnection during use. This requirement promotes safe practices while ensuring that users can set up and reposition their luminaires without unnecessary complications.

The other options suggest methods that are either too restrictive or inappropriate for portable designs. Direct wiring and permanent installations, for instance, would conflict with the very nature of portable luminaires, which must remain movable and adjustable according to user needs. Standard plug-in connections, while generally safe, do not necessarily account for the flexibility that the code specifies for portable luminaires, hence the focus on specifically approved flexible connections that meet all safety and operational criteria outlined in the NEC.