For business owners in search of a high-quality LED display for advertising, one crucial factor for long-term performance is the “IP rating.” For those unfamiliar with this standard, this article will provide a clear and simple explanation. By the end, you’ll be able to choose an LED display that meets your needs with confidence.
What is an IP Rating?
The letters IP stand for Ingress Protection. This is an international standard that defines the level of protection an electronic device has against foreign objects like dust and water. The IP rating is made up of two digits: the first digit indicates the level of protection against solids, and the second digit indicates the level of protection against liquids.
Why an IP Rating is Important for an LED Display
- Enhanced Performance and Longevity: An LED display with a high IP rating is well-protected against water. This prevents damage from splashes or submersion, which can lead to moisture buildup and harm internal components.
- Increased Durability: An LED display that is well-protected from dust won’t suffer from dust accumulation, which can cause overheating and internal component failure.
- Improved Safety: A waterproof LED display reduces the risk of electrical short circuits caused by water, which can be a safety hazard for users.
Decoding the IP Rating Code
The First Digit: Protection Against Solids
This digit represents the level of protection against solid objects:
- 0: No protection.
- 1: Protection from objects larger than 50 mm (e.g., a hand).
- 2: Protection from objects larger than 12.5 mm (e.g., a finger).
- 3: Protection from objects larger than 2.5 mm (e.g., tools and thick wires).
- 4: Protection from objects larger than 1 mm (e.g., wires, screws).
- 5: Dust protected; some dust may enter but will not interfere with operation.
- 6: Dust tight; complete protection against dust.
The Second Digit: Protection Against Liquids
This digit represents the level of protection against liquids:
- 0: No protection.
- 1: Protection against vertically dripping water (e.g., condensation).
- 2: Protection against vertically dripping water when tilted up to 15°.
- 3: Protection against sprays of water at angles up to 60° from vertical.
- 4: Protection against splashes of water from all directions.
- 5: Protection against low-pressure water jets from all directions.
- 6: Protection against high-pressure water jets from all directions.
- 7: Protection against temporary submersion in water up to 1 meter deep.
- 8: Protection against continuous submersion beyond 1 meter (depth specified by the manufacturer).
- 9K: Protection against high-pressure and high-temperature water jets.
Real-World IP Rating Examples
To make this clearer, let’s use an example. An LED display with a rating of IP67 means the display is completely dust-tight (digit 6) and can be temporarily submerged in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes (digit 7).
Tips for Choosing an LED Display Based on its IP Rating
You should always choose an LED display with an IP rating that matches its intended environment. For an indoor or sheltered installation, a lower rating like IP44 or IP54 may be sufficient. However, for a location with frequent rain or high humidity, a higher rating like IP65 or IP67 is highly recommended.
Always verify the IP rating before you buy. The rating will be listed on the product’s specification sheet or on the display itself. If you have any questions, you can always ask the manufacturer or a distributor.
In addition to the IP rating, you should also consider other international standards, such as IEC60529 and NEMA 3R. Both of these standards define protection levels against water, foreign objects, and dust, all of which affect the performance of an LED display. Always consider these factors carefully before making an investment.
Find Your Standard-Compliant LED Display at DEFG
Now that you understand the importance of the IP rating for choosing an LED display, if you’re looking for a provider of high-quality indoor and outdoor LED displays, choose DEFG. We are a leading provider of comprehensive LED display solutions. Our professional team of engineers and technicians is dedicated to ensuring you get the best value and performance for your business.
Explore our full range of LED displays and accessories on our website to discover high-quality, international-standard products at a great value.
