One of the most important factors to consider when installing CCTV cameras outdoors is their ability to withstand heavy rain, dust storms, or freezing temperatures; whatever the weather, a CCTV camera must remain functional and reliable.
What is an IP Rating?
IP Rating stands for "Ingress Protection Rating", which indicates how weatherproof a CCTV camera is. An IP Rating comprises the abbreviation IP & followed by a two-digit code. Such as IP67 or IP66. But what do the numbers after IP mean for my CCTV camera?
What do the numbers mean?
The First Digit: Protection Against Solid Objects
The first digit of the IP rating helps us understand how well a CCTV camera can protect its internal components from dirt, dust, and other solid objects.
1 - 50mm object, i.e, hands
2 - 12.5mm objects, i.e, fingers
3 - 2.5mm object, i.e, screwdriver
4 - 1mm object, i.e, wire
5 - Dust protection will not interfere with the operation
6 - Dust-tight. No dust will get inside
The Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids
The second digit in the IP rating tells you how well your CCTV camera is protected from water and moisture.
0 - No water resistance (Camera must only be used for indoor installations)
1 - Small drops of water falling vertically like light rain
2 - Small drops of water falling at 15 degrees, like wind pushing rain diagonally
3 - A spray of water up to 60 degrees
4 - Water splashing from any angle
5 - Light water jets
6 - Strong water jets
7 - Underwater at 15cm to 1m, for up to 30 minutes
8 - Underwater beyond 3ft for long periods
Why does my security camera have an IPX rating?
In some instances, you may come across a camera with a rating such as IPX6 or IP5X. This indicates that one of the protection ratings has either not been tested or is not provided, with the "X" representing the unknown value.
Why Does the IP Rating Matter?
Choosing a camera with the right IP rating for your environment is essential to ensure the longevity and reliability of your security system. Without the right IP rating, your camera could fail prematurely, leaving your property unprotected and you with an unexpected bill to repair or replace.
For most outdoor applications, CCTV cameras with an IP66 rating or IP67 rating are recommended as they give excellent protection against dust and water, ensuring that your security system remains effective even in challenging weather.
Buy CCTV with IP ratings
Norbain specialises in Video Surveillance. You can find a range of external cameras with an IP66 or IP67 rating, which is perfect for outdoor use. Follow the link below to see our range of IP-rated cameras. Please read the specs of each camera carefully to determine whether or not it will fit the needs of your security system. If you need help with IP ratings and finding the perfect camera, give our sales team a call!