What’s the Best Protection for Your Device?

In an increasingly competitive tech market, the resistance of electronic devices to dust and water has become a key factor for consumers. Terms like IP66, IP67, IP68, and IP69 frequently appear in the specifications of smartphones, smartwatches, and other devices, but what do they really mean? Understanding these certifications can make a difference when choosing a product that meets the user’s needs.

Below, we detail the differences between these standards, their real-life applications, and how they compare to the 5ATM certification.

IP Code: What Does It Mean?

The IP (Ingress Protection) code is an international standard defined by IEC 60529, which determines the degree of protection of a device against external elements. This code consists of two digits:

• First digit: Indicates protection against solid particles like dust or sand, with a scale from 0 to 6 (where 6 represents complete sealing).
• Second digit: Assesses resistance to water, with a scale from 0 to 9 (where 9 indicates resistance to high-pressure and high-temperature water jets).

A higher number means greater protection against these elements. However, not all certifications cover the same risks.

Differences Between IP66, IP67, IP68, and IP69

IP66: Dust and Water Jet Protection

• Dust protection: Completely sealed against dust particles.
• Water protection: Resists water jets at high pressure (up to 100 liters per minute, at 100 kPa of pressure, from a distance of 3 meters).
• Limitations: Not designed for immersion in water.

Application: Ideal for devices exposed to extreme dust and rain conditions, such as security cameras, industrial devices, or outdoor equipment.

IP67: Dust Protection and Immersion Up to 1 Meter

• Dust protection: Fully sealed against particles.
• Water protection: Can be submerged in freshwater up to 1 meter for 30 minutes.
• Limitations: Not resistant to high-pressure jets.

Application: Perfect for smartphones, smartwatches, and devices that may occasionally fall into water.

IP68: Total Dust Protection and Immersion Beyond 1 Meter

• Dust protection: Completely sealed.
• Water protection: Supports prolonged immersion beyond 1 meter, though depth and duration vary by manufacturer (1.5-2 meters for 30 minutes in most cases, up to 6 meters in premium devices).
• Limitations: Does not guarantee resistance to saltwater or high-pressure jets.

Application: High-end smartphones, premium smartwatches, and wearables designed for extreme sports.

IP69: Maximum Resistance to High-Temperature and Pressure Water Jets

• Dust protection: Totally sealed.
• Water protection: Supports water jets at high pressure (up to 100 bar) and temperature (80°C), applied from a distance of 10-15 cm.
• Limitations: Not designed for immersion.

Application: Industrial equipment subjected to extreme cleaning, such as food processing machinery or devices in construction environments.

What About Saltwater?

IP certification tests are conducted in freshwater, making saltwater a potential risk factor. Salt is corrosive and can degrade protective seals over time. Some manufacturers, like Apple and Samsung, have added limited resistance to saltwater in certain devices, but it is recommended to rinse with fresh water after exposure to prevent damage.

How Does It Compare to 5ATM?

The 5ATM standard is commonly used in smartwatches and sports devices. Unlike IP certifications, it measures water pressure resistance rather than protection against liquid ingress.

Which is Better?

• IP68 is superior in dust resistance and immersion.
• 5ATM is better for water sports but does not protect against dust or high-pressure water jets.
  Some devices combine both certifications to offer greater versatility.

Devices with Multiple Certifications

Some manufacturers have started offering devices with combinations of certifications to ensure maximum resistance:

• OnePlus 13: IP68 + IP69.
• Redmi Note 14 Pro+: IP69 + IP68 + IP66.
• Apple Watch Series 9: IP68 + WR50 (equivalent to 5ATM).

These models stand out for their extreme resistance under multiple conditions.

Which Certification to Choose?

It will depend on how the device will be used:

• IP66: Ideal for industrial environments with high dust presence and exposure to water jets.
• IP67: A good option for users looking for occasional water resistance in smartphones and wearables.
• IP68: The best option for those seeking total protection against dust and immersion in water.
• IP69: Recommended only for work environments with high-pressure cleaning.
• 5ATM: Perfect for swimmers and water sports.

Conclusion

IP certifications are not just a marketing argument but a real protection standard that can make a difference in the durability of a device. However, it is important to read the detailed specifications from each manufacturer, as actual resistance may vary.

Additionally, performing extreme tests such as washing the device in a dishwasher or immersing it in saltwater without precautions can damage it even if it has high resistance certifications.

Ultimately, understanding the difference between IP66, IP67, IP68, and IP69 allows for more informed decisions when purchasing a device, ensuring it fits the environment in which it will be used.

via: Componentes News