Raceways and cables installed into the bottom of open bottom equipment shall not be required to be _____ to the equipment.

Raceways and cables installed into the bottom of open bottom equipment are not required to be mechanically secured to the equipment. This requirement is rooted in the understanding that open bottom equipment is designed to provide a certain level of protection and does not necessitate the same level of mechanical security as other types of installations.

In this context, "mechanically secured" refers to the requirement that raceways or cables be fixed in place, often to prevent movement that could lead to damage or hazards. However, in open bottom equipment, the design and function of the equipment allow for more flexibility in how the raceways and cables are managed, recognizing that the installation does not pose the same risks typically associated with other environments.

Other installation requirements, such as ensuring that they are properly secured or grounded, still apply to maintain safety standards, but they do not have the same mechanical fastening stipulation due to the nature of the installation site. This understanding helps ensure compliance with the NEC while also recognizing practical application in various environments.