IP Rating for Outdoor Digital Signage

There are a growing number of outdoor digitaloffers. The IP rating comes in the form of a
signage systems and outdoor TVs being utilised indouble digital number the first digit indicates the
many sectors. There use has boomed in recentamount of protection against solid bodies (such as
years thanks to the falling cost of LCDdust) that the enclosure offers whilst the second
technology (and plasma) and the development ofdigit indicates the liquid protection offered. In both
outdoor LCD TVs and LCD enclosure.cases, the higher the number the more protection
Both outdoor TVs and LCD enclosures that houseis offered.
conventional indoor TVs but provide a protectiveThe most common IP ratings used in outdoor
outer enclosure are becoming increasingly moredigital signage are as follows:
common.IP54 – These enclosure offer adequate dust
Of course, outdoor digital signage providesprotection ensuring that any dust that does enter
challenges to the technology that is not normallydoes not interfere with the device whilst it also
relevant for indoor TV systems. Rain, snow andoffers protection against liquid splashes. These
wind blown debris are common elementsenclosures are better suited for industrial or
outdoors and are also elements that canfactory applications.
permanently damage sensitive electronics such asIP65 enclosures are even greater dust protection
LCD TVs.and are completely dust tight whilst it also offers
Fortunately a rating system has been developedprotection against directed or falling water
in Europe that can provide guidance to the type(including rain). These enclosures are ideal for
of protection that an outdoor TV or LCDoutdoor use.
enclosure can offer.IP66 enclosure are similar to IP65 enclosures but
The IP rating (Ingress Protection) providesthey offer protection from high powered water
consumers with a clear indication of the type ofjest (such as a power washer or jet wash) and
protection the LCD enclosure of outdoor TVare ideal for wash down environments.