This quick guide will break down the IPX chart, making it easy to see what each level of water protection really means for you and your equipment.
What is an IP Rating? (The Basics)
You’ve probably seen a rating like “IP67” on the back of a new smartphone or a piece of industrial equipment. But what does it actually mean?
“IP” stands for Ingress Protection. It’s a universal standard that classifies how well a device’s enclosure protects it from being infiltrated by foreign objects (like dust and dirt) and moisture.
The Two Numbers:
- The First Digit: This number (from 0-6) tells you how well the device is protected against solid particles. A “0” means no protection, while a “6” means it’s completely dust-tight.
- The Second Digit: This is where we get to the “X” in IPX. This number (from 0-9K) rates the device’s protection against liquids, specifically water. A “0” offers no protection, while a “9K” can withstand powerful, high-temperature water jets.
The “X” in IPX:
When you see a rating like IPX7, the “X” is simply a placeholder. It means the product hasn’t been officially tested for solid particle protection. In this case, the manufacturer wants to highlight one thing and one thing only: how well it stands up to water.
The IPX Rating Chart: A Deep Dive into Water Protection
Now for the main event. Let’s break down exactly what each level of water protection means.
| IPX Rating | Protection Against | Real-World Example |
| IPX0 | No protection | An unprotected circuit board |
| IPX1 | Dripping water (vertically) | A device that can withstand light rain for a short period |
| IPX2 | Dripping water (when tilted at 15°) | A device that can handle light rain from different angles |
| IPX3 | Spraying water | A device that can withstand a water spray from a nozzle |
| IPX4 | Splashing water | A device that is splash-proof from all directions |
| IPX5 | Water jets | A device that can be cleaned with a water jet |
| IPX6 | Powerful water jets | A device suitable for marine environments |
| IPX7 | Immersion up to 1m | A smartphone that can be submerged in water for 30 minutes |
| IPX8 | Immersion beyond 1m | Professional diving equipment |
| IPX9K | Powerful high-temperature water jets | Equipment that needs to be steam-cleaned, like in industrial settings |
IPX0
Think of this as the “no umbrella” level. The device has absolutely no protection from water.
IPX1
Protection Against Dripping Water. This is the first level of protection. It means the device can handle vertically falling water drops (like light condensation or a very gentle drizzle) for at least 10 minutes.
IPX2
Protection Against Dripping Water (Tilted). A small step up. The device is safe from dripping water even when it’s tilted at a 15-degree angle. It offers slightly more realistic protection against rain.
IPX3
Protection Against Spraying Water. Now we’re getting somewhere. This rating means the device can handle a direct spray of water, like from a plant mister or a gentle spray bottle, at any angle up to 60 degrees.
IPX4
Protection Against Splashing Water. This is a common rating for consumer electronics. It ensures your device will be fine if it gets splashed with water from any direction. Think of it as surviving a splash from a puddle or getting caught in a moderate rain shower.
IPX5
Protection Against Water Jets. Your device can now withstand a sustained, low-pressure jet of water from any direction. This means you could clean it with a hose nozzle without worry.
IPX6
Protection Against Powerful Water Jets. This is where things get serious. An IPX6-rated device can handle powerful jets of water, making it suitable for environments like a boat deck where it might get hit by waves or hosed down for cleaning.
IPX7
Protection Against Immersion (Up to 1 Meter). This is the “oops, I dropped it in the pool” rating. A device with IPX7 protection can be fully submerged in up to one meter of water for 30 minutes and come out unscathed. It’s a game-changer for phones, smartwatches, and portable speakers.
IPX8
Protection Against Immersion (Beyond 1 Meter). This rating is for the deep divers. The manufacturer specifies the exact depth and duration the device can handle (for example, “up to 3 meters for 60 minutes”). You’ll find this on specialized gear like underwater cameras and professional dive equipment.
IPX9K
The Ultimate Protection. This is the king of the hill. The “K” signifies it can withstand powerful, high-temperature water jets at close range. This is essential for equipment in industrial or food processing settings that needs to be regularly steam-cleaned or power-washed for sanitation.
Why IPX Ratings are Crucial for Electrical Connectors
Okay, so we understand what the ratings mean. But why is this so incredibly important for something as specific as an electrical connector?
Think of connectors as the vital circulatory system of any electronic device. They are the points where power and data flow. If these connection points fail, the entire system fails. Dust and, more critically, water are the natural enemies of these connections.
- Corrosion: When water gets into a connector, it can rapidly corrode the metal contacts. This corrosion acts like a wall, blocking the flow of electricity and leading to intermittent faults or complete failure.
- Short Circuits: Water is a conductor. If it bridges the gap between two electrical contacts that aren’t supposed to touch, it creates a short circuit. This can cause immediate and often catastrophic damage to your expensive equipment.
Choosing a connector with the right IPX rating isn’t just a “nice-to-have” feature; it’s a fundamental requirement for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your entire system. This is at the core of what we do at SEETRONIC. Our development teams are obsessed with creating connectors that don’t just work, but that keep working flawlessly, no matter what the environment throws at them.
How to Choose the Right IP-Rated Connector
So, how do you pick the perfect IP-rated connector? It all comes down to asking one simple question: “Where and how will this be used?”
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
For Indoor, Controlled Environments:
If your product will live its life in a dry, climate-controlled office or home (like a computer or home theater system), you generally don’t need a high level of water protection. A basic connector or one with a low rating like IPX1 or IPX2 is often sufficient.
For Outdoor or Humid Environments:
When you move outdoors, the rules change. For applications like outdoor speakers, architectural lighting, or digital signage, you need to be prepared for rain and splashes. Look for a rating of at least IPX4 to IPX6. This ensures your connections stay safe and dry, even in a downpour.
For Marine or Wash-Down Applications:
Anything used on a boat, in a marina, or in an industrial setting where equipment is regularly hosed down needs serious protection. A rating of IPX6 or IPX7 is essential here to defend against powerful water jets and the risk of temporary immersion.
For Submersible or Extreme Industrial Use:
For equipment that will be fully underwater (like pool lighting or marine sensors) or needs to withstand high-pressure, high-temperature cleaning (like in food processing plants), you need the best of the best. This is where IPX8 and IPX9K ratings are non-negotiable.
At SEETRONIC, we have a dynamic range of products designed to meet these specific needs, ensuring you can find the perfect, robust solution for your unique application.
Seetronic: Your Partner for Reliable Connections
We are a team of dedicated R&D, business, and production experts focused on developing the most reliable electrical connection systems on the market.
We are constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, launching products that set new benchmarks for the entire industry. Whether you need a connector that can survive on the deck of a ship or one that ensures a crystal-clear audio signal in a recording studio, we have a solution built with quality and durability at its core.
Ready to build something that lasts?
Explore our full range of high-performance connectors on our website or contact our expert team today to discuss your project. We’re here to help you find the perfect connection.
Conclusion: Don’t Compromise on Your Connections
In the end, the IPX rating is more than just a code; it’s a promise of reliability. It tells you that your device is ready to face the real world, with all its spills, splashes, and storms. When it comes to your electrical systems, choosing the right connector is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. By understanding the IPX chart and partnering with a trusted expert, you ensure that your technology won’t just perform—it will endure.
