Issue link: https://resources.mouser.com/i/1527887
C h a p t e r 1 | W a t e r a n d E l e c t r i c i t y Protection against the ingress of water is therefore a priority. When creating a device required to work in tough conditions, designers must not only understand the ways in which the device may be affected but also how water may find its way in. A significant difference exists between a device that will be fixed to the exterior of a building, exposed to wind and rain, and a device that will be used inside a factory. While indoor environments may be protected from everyday exposure to the elements, other mechanisms, such as high-pressure cleaning sprays, need to be considered. The requirements for a device that will be immersed in water are entirely different. The ingress protection (IP) rating system is intended to help designers choose the correct level of protection. Ratings use a two-digit code that denotes the level of protection. The first digit describes the size of a solid against which protection is provided. The highest rating is 6, which indicates protection against dust and other small particulates for a sustained period. The second digit describes the extent of sealing against water ingress. One of the most frequently used ratings for connectors and other components is IP67, which protects against everyday dust and grime and limited immersion in water. IP67-rated components are suitable for installation in outdoor applications that will experience wind and rain—for example, a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera mounted to a building's exterior. Products that need higher performance or require specific conditions will typically use the IP68 rating, which provides protection against long-term immersion. Equipment destined for tough agricultural or military applications are prime examples of this type of product. Different environments can present mechanical, environmental, thermal, or electrical factors that may compromise a component's functionality, lifespan, or safety. This risk is particularly significant for off-the-shelf components not specifically designed to withstand such conditions." Filipe Romero Electrical Engineer, ASML 7 Understanding Harsh Environments for Electronic Design