What is an IP Rating?

IP stands for International Protection Rating, commonly called Ingress Protection Rating. It is defined in the international standard IEC 60529 as the degree of protection against the intrusion of solid objects, dust, accidental contact, and water in electrical enclosures.

IP ratings are used as a reference point for electronic enclosure designs to help users determine what’s required for a certain environment and application.

The IP Code consists of the letters IP followed by two digits and sometimes a letter. The first number, ranging from 0 to 6, dictates the level of protection against solid objects, such has fingers, tools, wires, or dust. The second digit, ranging from 0 to 9, indicates how much protection the enclosure has against liquids. A 0-rating indicating no protection, to an 9-rating indicating the device can be subjected to close range, high pressure water jets.