IP stands for Ingress Protection. What does that mean in simple terms? The IP number is a rating of the airtight capacity of the radio enclosure from particles and moisture. An IP number is comprised of two digits. Those digits are determined from a standard measurement chart of Intrusion Protection. In the case of an IP rating of 57, we can review the following chart to determine the IP rating classification:
| First Digit (Particle Protection) | Second Digit (Moisture Protection) |
| 0 – No Special Protection | 0 – No protection |
| 1 – Protected against solid objects from 50mm or more | 1 – Protection against condensation |
| 2 – Protected against solid objects from 12.5mm or more | 2 – Protection against water droplets deflected up to 15 degrees from vertical |
| 3 – Protected against solid objects from 2.5mm or more | 3 – Protection against water spray ip to 60 degrees from vertical |
| 4 – Protected against solid objects from 1mm or more | 4 – Protected against splashes of water from all directions |
| 5 – Protected against dust that may harm equipment | 5 – Protection against low pressure water jets from all directions |
| 6 – Totally particle tight | 6 – Protection against powerful water jets from all directions |
| 7 – Protected against temporary immersion | |
| 8 – Protected against prolonged immersion |
With respect to the IP 57 rating, the 5 is the particle protection distinction, namely that the unit is “protected against dust that may harm equipment.” The 7 is the moisture protection distinction, namely “that the unit is protected against temporary immersion.”
So when you are reviewing radio models for use and/or purchase, it is important to take into account your need for air tight capacity of your Two Way radio and look for the IP rating from the manufacturer. We at Command Radio Communications have a variety of choices to review with low, medium and high IP ratings. Both the Kenwood and Vertex Standard models we sell offer models with high IP ratings, such as the Kenwood NX-300 (optional feature), the Vertex Standard VX-450 Series radio as well as the Vertex Standard eVerge EVX-530 Series portable radio.
It’s important to contact us to review the specifics of your environmental and operation needs to find the appropriate model to suit your needs.
