What is IP rating? Know it before buying a smart device

When buying daily essential gadget items such as mobiles, smartwatches, earbuds and outdoor cameras, the IP rating is mentioned along with all the specifications. However, many of us do not know what IP rating actually means. Let's get an idea about IP rating to keep smart devices safe.

What is IP rating?

IP rating is a type of certificate level, which means ingress protection. It helps to keep safe from dust and water. Usually, two portable devices provide most IP ratings. For example:
 

1. Smart Watch: IP rating generally makes the smart watch waterproof & sweat-resistant.
 

2. Mobile: Almost all mobiles have an IP rating. However, the latest flagship smartphones offer high-quality IP ratings.

IP rating is expressed with different numbers. And according to the number of this IP rating, the protection level in smart devices is different. Therefore, having an IP rating means that your mobile, smartwatch and other gadget items should not be used in excess water or dust.

Let's learn about the IP ratings obtained with smart devices

IP rating is basically expressed with two-digit numbers. The first 0-6 digits basically indicate the dust and dirt resistance level. The second 0-9 digits indicate the level of resistance to liquids such as sweat and water. For example, the IP rating of a smart watch is IP XY. First X digit of the IP rating indicates the dust and dirt resistance level, and Y digit indicates the sweat and water resistance level. Let's learn what the first and second digits mean in terms of solids and liquids IP rating.

Solid Protection First Digit

• Zero: This level of IP rating cannot prevent dust and sand.
• 1-4: 1-4 digit IP ratings basically help protect devices from touching hands and fingers.
• 5: This level of resistance against dust and dirt is very low.
• 6: It basically provides strong resistance against dust and sand.

Liquid Protection Second Digit

• Zero: Does not provide protection against water and sweat.
• 1-4: This level is mainly safe from water droplets or splashes.
• 5: Protects devices from low-pressure water.
• 6: Provides protection from high-pressure water.
• 7: It can protect devices in 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes.
• 8: Protects devices in water deeper than 1 meter.
• 9: This level of IP rating protects devices at high pressure and temperature.

IP ratings widely used with smart devices in Bangladesh

• IP67: This level of IP rating is higher on smartphones and smart watches, which protects devices in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. It also helps protect against dust and sweat.
• IP68: This is found in premium devices, which also provides protection against dust and deep water.
• IPX4: It cannot prevent dust but is splash or sweat resistant. It is more common in earbuds and fitness trackers.

Is IP rating really necessary?

• Smart devices like fitness trackers, smartwatches are used more in daily sweat, dust and water exposure. As a result, it is better to check the IP rating to keep these devices safe in regular use.
• Moreover, smartphones, outdoor cameras and other devices with high IP ratings provide long-term use.
• When buying mobiles, earbuds and outdoor cameras, warranties are usually provided in case of mechanical defects or parts-related problems. But warranties are not provided for any defects in water, sweat or dust.
• Therefore, to protect such devices from falling into water or getting wet in the rain, you should check the IP rating, which will not only keep your devices safe but also ensure safe use.