When purchasing a smartphone or other electronic device, in its characteristics you probably pay attention to the IP67 or IP68 parameter, which indicates the degree of protection of the case. But what does an IP rating really mean?
What are IP standards?
rambler without ads
The International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) has created an IP rating (Ingress Protection Rating) as a standard that determines the degree of protection of electronic devices from moisture and solid materials. In fact, the IP rating system functions as a strength scale, and its numbering system shows the resistance of the device to various elements.
IP is a two-digit number XX. The first number refers to the protection of gadgets from solid objects, and the range varies from 0 to 6. The second number refers to water resistance and is indicated by numbers from 0 to 8. The higher the number, the higher the protection.
It is important to note that the degree of protection is assigned to the device not by the manufacturer itself, but by experts who conduct independent testing. To check the level of protection and assign one of the IP classes, experts use dust cameras with talcum powder, as well as atomizers and water tanks. In the modern classification, there are 7 levels of protection of devices from solid objects and 9 levels of protection against water.
Protection against solid objects:
rambler without ads
0 – no protection;
1 – protection against solid objects with a size of less than 50 mm;
2 – protection against solid objects with a size of less than 12.5 mm;
3 – protection against solid objects with a size of less than 2.5 mm;
rambler without ads
4 – protection against solid objects with a size of less than 1 mm;
5 – partial protection against dust. Dust microparticles when they enter the device will not harm him;
6 – absolute protection against dust.
Water protection:
0 – no protection;
1 – protection against vertical drops;
rambler without ads
2 – protection against drops falling on the device at an angle of up to 15 °;
3 – protection against drops falling on the device at an angle of up to 60 °;
4 – protection against splashes and drops from all sides;
5 – protection against jets of water with low pressure falling on the device within 3 minutes;
6 – protection against jets of water with strong pressure falling on the device within 3 minutes;
7 – protection against water during immersion of the device to a depth of 1 m for 30 minutes;
rambler without ads
8 – protection against water while immersing the device to a depth of 1.5 m for 30 minutes.
The difference between IP67 and IP68
Today, more and more premium smartphones have an IP67 or IP68 protection rating. For example, the Apple iPhone 8 and 8 Plus have IP67 protection standards, while the Samsung Galaxy S20 / S20 Plus, as well as the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max, are IP68 protected. What is the difference between the two standards?
As mentioned above, the number “6” means absolute dust protection. This means that all six gadgets in question (Apple iPhone 8/8 Plus, iPhone 11 Pro / Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy S20 / S20 Plus) are completely dustproof.
The second digit (7/8) indicates water resistance. So, a device rated IP67 is able to withstand immersion in water by 1 meter for 30 minutes. Moreover, water can only be fresh. A device rated IP68 can survive immersion in water up to two meters in depth for 30 minutes without consequences.
It is worth noting that each manufacturer gives their own recommendations on the use of devices rated IP68. So, Samsung indicates that the Galaxy S20 and S20 Plus are able to withstand immersion in water by 1.5 meters for 30 minutes. In turn, Apple claims that the iPhone 11 Pro and Pro Max, with the same IP68 protection rating, can withstand immersion at the same time, but two meters.
rambler without ads
Speaking about the degree of protection against water, IP67 and IP68, it is important to note that in fact we are talking about water resistance, and not waterproofing. And even at shallow depths, water can exert pressure on the body above the allowable limit, and water will enter the device. It is also worth noting that smartphone manufacturers' guarantees do not cover water damage.
Conclusion
For most users, the difference in IP scores is not significant. But if you lead an active lifestyle, it is better to give preference to mobile devices with a degree of protection IP67 or IP68. Then your gadget will be more likely to remain operational.
How to properly prepare your iPhone for service in the service
TOP 10 most popular games and consoles in Russia for 2019-2020
The smartphone market has fallen by 20%: Huawei has suffered the most, but Xiaomi has increased sales
Chief editor of the blog – Erika J. Wells .
