How to Choose the Right IP Rating for Your Security Cameras?

Opting for a suitable IP rating for your security cameras is pivotal and must be in line with the environmental conditions where the cameras will be deployed. Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate this decision:

Assess the Installation Environment:

Start by assessing the proposed installation site. Determine if the camera will be indoors or outdoors and identify possible encounters with elements like dust, moisture, rain, submersion, or extreme temperatures.

Determine Specific Threats:

Once the installation spot is decided, weigh in on the kinds and severity of the perceived threats the cameras may face. For example, evaluate the risk of splashes, heavy monsoon, dust storms, or water submersion during summers. Are there low temperature forecasts for winter? When in doubt, it’s always advisable to choose a higher IP rating for better protection.

Here’s a short guide on IP ratings based on different environments:

Indoor use in controlled, moisture and dust-free environments may only require a lower IP rating such as IP20.
Cameras positioned outdoors exposed to rain and dust should consider using ratings of IP65 and above.
Cameras to be dispatched in harsh conditions encountering heavy rainfall, high dust concentrations, or submersion threats, should ideally have an IP rating of IP67 or IP68.

Keep Unique Factors in Mind:

In certain cases, considering the IP rating alone won’t suffice. Any distinctive conditions or requirements should also be included in your considerations. For example, close proximity to a chemical processing unit might require resistance to specific chemicals. Such situations might need measures extending beyond a high IP rating.

Budget Carefully with an Eye on Future Expansion:

Higher IP rated security cameras are generally more pricey. Hence, finding a balance between protection requirements and budget constraints during purchase is essential. If the surveillance requirements are comprehensive and might extend to more camera additions in the future, or might expand to challenging environments, it’s wise to opt for cameras carrying higher IP ratings from the start.