What is the IP Rating for Water and Dust Protection??
Many electronic devices like smartphones, external hard drives, and portable speakers are great to take anywhere and used outdoors for long periods of time. However, that also means they can be exposed to the elements, increasing the risk of dust infiltration, rain damage, or even accidental submersion. Thus, that’s why waterproof and dustproof features are crucial for protecting them and ensuring their longevity.
Back in 1976, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), a global non-profit organization of 170 countries, established the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system. This standardized code has been widely used in various industries and grades a product’s ability to resist foreign object intrusion and harmful liquid ingress.
Below, we take a look at the definitions of the IP ratings. Note that for consumers’ peace of mind, most of the Team Group’s three main brands — T-FORCE, T-CREATE, and TEAMGROUP — have IP67 certifications for external hard drives, USB drives, and memory cards.
Now that we’ve wrapped our heads around IP ratings, let’s see how they play out in real life with some product examples. Buckle up, dust-busters and water warriors!
T-CREATE EXPERT SDXC UHS-II U3 V90 Memory Card
Photographers know their memory cards hold priceless captured memories, and losing them due to dust, debris, or even a rogue tumble into water would be a disaster. That’s why T-CREATE’s EXPERT SDXC UHS-II U3 V90 memory cards come with an IP67 rating. No matter where your trekking adventures take you, these cards will keep your memories safe and sound.
TEAMGROUP PD1000 SSD
The PD1000 SSD supports a maximum capacity of up to 2 TB and is IP68 rated, a coveted protection level rarely found in the electronic products world. This top-tier certification ensures the drive is virtually impenetrable to dust and water, thanks to rigorous testing across all levels. Whether you’re storing gaming data, creative projects, or everyday files, the PD1000 offers reliable, portable storage that lets you take your data anywhere with confidence.
Reading about IP ratings and the examples above might leave you wondering: “Do I need an IP68-rated product if I’m paranoid about dust and water damage?” Truth is, dust can play havoc with electronic products as much as getting dunked in water. Taking care of your electronics is key, no matter the rating.
Think of an IP rating as a bonus feature, not a holy grail. An IP67 rating is plenty of protection, and reputable brands highlight it to give you peace of mind. While IP ratings are fairly standard nowadays, they’re not exactly like having a magic shield. Ratings offer some extra confidence in your device’s resistance against the elements, but remember, taking care of your stuff is always the first line of defense.
Until next time, bye for now!
