Many electronics manufacturers use the IP (Ingress Protection) standard, which characterizes the ability of equipment to resist the penetration of solid objects and liquids. The IP rating determines the durability of the device's housing (enclosure) according to two parameters – water resistance (waterproofing) and dust protection (dust and moisture protection).
The IP protection rating was adopted by the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission). In Russia, it is regulated by GOST 14254–96.
The IP rating for subscriber radio equipment consists of two digits. The first digit is on a scale from 0 to 6 and indicates the level of protection against solid objects; the second digit is on a scale from 0 to 8 and indicates the level of protection against liquids.
For example, Motorola radios generally have an IP54 rating, while new Kenwood models (TK-2180, TK-2160, TK-2170) have an IP55 rating. It is important that each device configuration be certified to the corresponding IP level.
IP rating
| Solid objects | Liquids | ||
| 0 | No protection | 0 | No protection |
| 1 | Protected against objects >50 mm (hand) | 1 | Protected against dripping water or condensation |
| 2 | Protected against objects >12 mm (fingers) | 2 | Protected against water spray at a 15° angle |
| 3 | Protected against objects >2.5 mm (tools/wire) | 3 | Protected against water spray at a 60° angle |
| 4 | Protected against objects >1 mm (thin tools) | 4 | Protected against water splashing from any direction |
| 5 | Dust protected, limited ingress | 5 | Protected against strong water jets |
| 6 | Completely dust tight | 6 | Protected against powerful water waves |
| 7 | Protected against temporary immersion in water | ||
| 8 | Protected against continuous immersion | ||
For example, IP68 means a device completely protected against dust that can be fully submerged in liquid.
Additionally, there is the NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) standard, popular in Europe, which indicates the environments in which the device can operate.
WATER RESISTANT – watch protection ratings
Watches are classified from Grade I to Grade V according to their water resistance level. Use the table below to determine the proper use of your watch.
| * Grade | Case marking | Splashes, rain, etc. | Swimming, car washing, etc. | Underwater swimming, diving, etc. | Scuba diving |
| I | - | No | No | No | No |
| II | WATER RESISTANT | Yes | No | No | No |
| III | 50 M WATER RESISTANT | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| IV | 100 M WATER RESISTANT | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| V | 200 M WATER RESISTANT 300 M WATER RESISTANT | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Notes
I – The watch is not water resistant. Avoid any contact with moisture.
II – WR (Water Resistant) means the model is waterproof according to ISO 2281. Brief contact with water will not cause issues.
III – With 5 Bar (50 meters) water resistance, the watch can withstand the stated water pressure and can be used during showering or brief swimming.
IV – With 10 Bar (100 meters) water resistance, the watch can be used for regular swimming and snorkeling.
V – With 20 Bar (200 meters) water resistance, the watch can be used for scuba diving (excluding depths requiring a helium-oxygen mixture).
Related sections: MIL-STD 810 standard