How do IP ratings work? Whether you are looking to buy a new device or need to learn more about how the devices you already have work, IP ratings are something you will want to know.
You have probably heard about them in nontechnical terms already. You may have seen them in online reviews but may not know how to use them for your purchasing choices.
Many others don’t understand despite the importance. So, what are IP ratings?
What Are IP Ratings?
The term “IP rating” is short for Ingress Protection Mark. It’s also referred to as the International Protection Mark.
It tells you the ability of an item to endure different intrusions using two-digit ratings.
Intrusions in IP ratings refer to:
- Amount of protection for users against electronic or mechanical parts
- Moisture and water resistance
- The extent of protection against outside forces that can damage the device
IP ratings are meant to let buyers know how safe using electronic or mechanical items in different settings is.
Manufacturers use their own words for this purpose, but their claims are not specific and could mean anything.
IP Ratings are international and have a solid definition. This makes them more reliable in their claims.
How Do They Work?
How do IP ratings work? IP ratings are displayed as IPXY. You might see a rating such as IP03, for instance.
X, the first number, stands for physical intrusion. This number goes from 0 to 6 and could mean anything from dust to contact with your fingers.
The second number, Y, is the protection against liquid intrusion, whether it’s a light mist or total water submersion.
This figure goes from 0 to 9K. The rating should tell you what conditions your device will be able to withstand water.
Remember that water resistance is not the same as waterproofing. Resistance allows your device to handle some water because its internal parts are designed to keep enough liquid out to avoid damage.
The depth and manner in which the item is exposed to water make a difference and temperature.
Check out your manufacturer’s specifications to see the specifics.
