IP Ingress Protection Codes: what they are and their importance in Walkie-Talkies
The IP codes (Ingress Protection) are an internationally standardized system (IEC 60529) that classifies and evaluates the level of protection that a device, like a walkie-talkie, offers against intrusions from outside elements, such as dust and water. In this article, we will present everything you need to know about IP Codes and how to interpret them when looking for the perfect walkie-talkie for each activity.
What do the numbers mean in the IP rating?
The IP classification consists of two digits: the first indicates the degree of protection against solid particles (dust), while the second shows the level of protection against liquids (water). Here’s a breakdown of each digit:
Protection against solids:
- IP0X: No specific protection against particles.
- IP1X: Protection against large solid objects (>50 mm) such as the palm of the hand.
- IP2X: Protection against medium solid objects (>12.5 mm) such as fingers.
- IP3X: Protection against small solid objects (>2.5mm) such as tools and cables.
- IP4X: Protection against very small solid objects (>1 mm) such as cables, screws and wires.
- IP5X: Almost total protection against the ingress of dust, but not completely airtight.
- IP6X: Total protection against the entry of dust, being hermetic.
Protection against liquids:
- IPX0: No specific protection against liquids.
- IPX1: Protection against vertical dripping water.
- IPX2: Protection against dripping water inclined at 15° from the vertical.
- IPX3: Protection against spray water up to 60° from the vertical.
- IPX4: Protection against splashing water from any direction.
- IPX5: Protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction.
- IPX6: Protection against powerful water jets.
- IPX7: Protection against immersion in water up to 1 meter deep for 30 minutes.
- IPX8: Protection against continuous immersion in water under specified conditions.
What degree of IP protection do we need for a walkie-talkie?
Choosing the appropriate IP code of protection for your walkie-talkie will depend on the environment in which you plan to use it. If your activities involve being outdoors in changeable weather conditions or dusty environments, 
it is advisable to opt for a walkie-talkie with a higher degree of IP protection.
For example, for outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, camping or sports, a walkie-talkie with a IP54 code it will be enough to withstand bad weather and water splashes. However, in industrial environments, such as construction or mining, where devices may be exposed to dust and water more intensively, or for water sports, it is preferable to choose a walkie-talkie with an IP67 code that guarantees protection against longer immersions.
In Pihernz we have walkies with different degrees of protection.
Walkie-talkies with IP54
- Dynascan RD-5
- Dynascan R-77
Walkie-talkie with IP55
- Dynascan R-400
Walkie-talkies with IP67
- Dynascan F-15
- Dynascan LP-50
- Dynascan R-58
In addition, for additional protection against water, we recommend adding an Aquapac cover that have protection up to IPX8.
If you need advice to find the right product, do not hesitate to contact us.