IP67 vs. IP68: Choosing the Best Waterproof RJ45 Coupler

When setting up outdoor or industrial network connections, durability and protection against environmental elements are very essential. This is why IP ratings come into play. Both IP67 and IP68 waterproof RJ45 couplers provide protection against water and dust, but they differ in protection level.  It’s crucial to understand the unique advantages of IP68-rated RJ45 waterproof couplers for achieving optimum, long-lasting performance in challenging outside or industrial settings.

In this guide, you’ll see what IP ratings are, the differences between IP67 vs 68, and how IP68-rated RJ45 couplers can upgrade the resistance of your network infrastructure’s endurance.

So, What Are IP Ratings and What Do They Involve?

IP ratings or Ingress Protection ratings refer to different categories of protection. They indicate how well a device or enclosure prevents the entry of dust and water into them. These ratings were created by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), to help users identify products that meet explicit sturdiness standards in different environments. For instance, high IP-rated equipment like IP67 and IP68 are manufactured to provide strong protection against dust and water. They are appropriate for outdoor and industrial applications where they are exposed to external agents like water, dust, or even other physical elements.

An IP rating has two digits, each of them representing a different concept:

• The First Digit (Solid Particle Protection): Ranges from 0 to 6, and indicates the level of defense against solid objects like dust.
• The Second Digit (Liquid Ingress Protection): Ranges from 0 to 8, and indicates the level of shield against water.

IP67 and IP68 Ratings

 An IP67 rating means the devices are highly protected against external threats:

• Solid Particle Protection ('6'): IP67 devices are fully dust-tight; therefore, particles can’t penetrate the enclosure.
• Water Protection ('7'): IP67 equipment can resist water immersion up to one meter during a maximum of 30 minutes. They are a good fit for sporadic contact with water, like light outdoor rain or short-term submersion.

To summarize, devices with an IP67 rating are IP67 waterproof and apt for outdoor use and occasional splashes or brief immersion.

An IP68 rating indicates a superior, strong protection:

• '6' (Dust Tight): Total protection against dust.
• '8' (Continuous Water Submersion): They protect in cases of persistent immersion.Note that the exact depth and time parameters can vary depending on the specifications of the manufacturers.

Devices with an IP68 rating bring enhanced protection, making them a great fit for environments where they may be submerged for prolonged timeframes.

Even though both ratings offer supreme dust protection, the primary difference between them lies in their water resistance:

• Depth and Duration: IP67 devices can withstand immersion up to 1 meter for 30 minutes, whereas IP68 devices can handle deeper and longer submersion as specified.
• Applications: IP67 is suitable for general outdoor use, while IP68 is designed for harsher conditions, including underwater operations.

When deciding between IP67 vs 68 equipment, consider the following factors:

• Thoroughly assess the level of exposure to dust, water, and other contaminants.
• Evaluate whether equipment will be facing temporary or continuous exposure to severe conditions.
• Although IP68 equipment may have higher upfront costs, the investment can pay off in long-term reliability.

Expert Tip: If you are considering IP68-rated equipment, always check the manufacturer's specifications and guidelines for accurate submersion capabilities.

Upgrade Our Waterproof RJ45 Coupler: IP67 to IP68

When designing network setups in challenging environments filled with dust, moisture, or extreme weather, choosing the right waterproof RJ45 coupler is essential. We’ve enhanced our waterproof RJ45 couplers, upgrading from IP67 to the more robust IP68 ratings:

Regarding their main differences:

• IP67 protects against temporary immersion in water, while IP68 handles continuous immersion.
• IP67 is best for outdoor conditions prone to occasional splashes or rain, while IP68 are ideal for underwater usage or areas with long-term exposure to water.
  
  

Advantages of Our IP68 RJ45 Waterproof Couplers

1. SuperiorNetwork Performance

Our IP68 waterproof RJ45 couplers are available in Cat6 and Cat6a types. Cat6 waterproof couplers can achieve the maximum speed of 10 Gbps within 37~55 meters and 1 Gbps within 100 meters (328 feet); while Cat6a waterproof couplers can achieve the maximum speed of 10 Gbps within 100 meters even in challenging environments. In addition, our couplers feature gold-plated contacts for enhanced network transmission stability and reliability.

2. Enhanced Signal Integrity

IP68 RJ45 couplers are designed to maintain optimal signal quality, even in adverse conditions. Our IP68 couplers come with shielding features that abate electromagnetic interference, ensuring the reliability of data transmission.

3. Compatibility

These couplers are compatible with various Ethernet cable types, including Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, which can effectively extend Ethernet cables. The broad compatibility makes these couplers suitable for diverse network setups.

4. Cost-Effectiveness

Choosing our IP68 RJ45 coupler is indeed a strategic investment decision. The robust construction makes it resistant to environmental damage, which can minimize repair needs. Additionally, by protecting the RJ45 connectors, our coupler also minimizes the frequency of replacing modular plugs.  

5. PoE Support

Our waterproof RJ45 couplers support PoE functions, making them ideal for installations that require simultaneous network and power transmission. For example, they are often a great choice for outdoor IP camera installation.

Expert Tip: For critical applications like industrial settings where network failure is not an option, invest in IP68 RJ45 waterproof couplers.

Applications of IP68 RJ45 Waterproof Couplers

• Outdoor Surveillance and Wi-Fi Networks: IP68 couplers provide dependable connections for outdoor surveillance cameras, Wi-Fi hotspots, and other devices that need consistent connectivity in rainy or dusty conditions.
• Industrial Environments:Suitable for factories, plants, and other settings with high exposure to dust and moisture.
• Marine Installations:These couplers are ideal for marine applications, as they withstand saltwater exposure and heavy moisture, protecting network integrity in coastal environments.
• Agricultural Settings:Useful in farms and greenhouses where equipment may be exposed to water sprays and dust.
• Underwater or Submersible Equipment:They are suitable to connect any underwater instruments or devices such as cameras, or sensors.

Expert Tip: If you are going to deploy network equipment outdoors, using IP68 RJ45 waterproof couplers will significantly reduce maintenance costs by preventing environmental damage.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between ratings of IP67 vs 68 will help you select the right type of equipment for your networking requirements. Likewise, you need to assess the environment of your network to determine the need or not for maximal protection against external agents.

For maximal protection against harsh conditions, IP68 RJ45 waterproof couplers will be the smartest solution. This higher-rated IP equipment will secure your investments in terms of longevity and performance within your network infrastructure.

For more information on this topic, you can keep up on our blogs. While VCELINK offers general and basic information for our customers and other visitors to the website, it’s not professional advice.