Understanding

IP Ratings for Surveillance Cameras

IP Ratings are a standardized rating system for camera enclosures.

The first digit represents the protection from dust; the second from water.

SCW cameras are either IP66 or IP67, with the big difference being that IP67 can be submerged for short durations.

Shop IP66 Cameras Shop IP67 Cameras


An IP Rating (or IP code) is a rating system for network security camera enclosures (not the camera) created by the International Electrotechnical Commission’s (IEC) international standard 60529. Security camera manufacturers can voluntary submit to have their cameras tested by the standard. Because it is a voluntary system, some surveillance cameras can actually be weatherproof without having obtained an IP rating.


Understanding the IP rating system


An IP rating can be a bit difficult to read, and is usually represented by two digits and may contain an additional letter. The numbers represent how difficult it is for solids and liquid to enter the security IP camera enclosure and the optional letter at the end represents how tamper-proof the enclosure is. The most consistent use of the IP rating system is to help customers determine if the camera will be able to withstand rain, wind, snow, and condensation and if it is safe to use the camera outside. Our cameras are either IP66 or IP67 . As we talk about what each digit means, we will be using these three designations as our examples.


The first digit of the IP rating


The first digit of the IP rating represents the level of protection provided by the camera’s enclosure against solid objects foreign to the camera and against access to hazardous parts. Higher numbers relate to more protection, and here are the criteria:


  • 0. No protection
  • 1. Protection against object 50 mm or larger
  • 2. Protection against object 12.5 mm or larger
  • 3. Protection against object 2.5 mm or larger
  • 4. Protection against object 1 mm or larger
  • 5. Some dust protection
  • 6. Full protection from dust

So, referring back to our IP66 and IP67 examples, both offer full protection from dust.


The second digit of the IP rating


The second digit represents the level of protection against liquids, most notably water. The second digit can range from zero to eight, with zero meaning no protection at all and eight indicating immersion possible over one meter in depth.


  • 0. No protection
  • 1. safe from vertically dripping water
  • 2. safe from vertically dripping water and dripping water when tilted up to 15 degrees
  • 3. safe from spraying water at an angle of up to 60 degrees
  • 4. safe from splashing water from any direction
  • 5. safe from water projected from a nozzle
  • 6. safe from powerful water jets
  • 7. safe for immersion up to 1 meter*
  • 8. safe for immersion beyond 1 meter*

*Exact length of time and the exact amount of depth of pressure for which submerged cameras can continue to operate is not measured by the IP rating.


Again, referring back to our IP66 and IP67 examples, this is where they diverge. Our IP66 models can handle being sprayed off with a hose, but can't withstand being submerged, while the IP67 models can.


Understanding the third digit of an IP rating


The third digit of an IP rating is optional and represents how tamper-proof the security camera system is. Not all cameras that qualify for a solid and liquid rating also qualify for a protection rating represented by the third digit. If there is no additional protection, the additional letter is simply dropped from the rating. So, unlike the first two digits that will have a zero, should they not meet the solid or liquid standards, if no additional protection is offered by the camera the letter will simply be missing.


If the third digit includes one of these letters, it means that the camera includes protection from Intrusions:

  • A. back of the hand
  • B. finger (and lower)
  • C. tool (and lower)
  • D. wire (and lower)

The following letters may be used to indicate the additional protection to the camera:


  • H. high voltage device
  • M. device moving during water test
  • S. device standing still during water test
  • W. weather conditions

    • Cameras with an IP66 Rating


      1. The Lookout 2.0 v2 - 26ZV2M - 2MP (1080P) IP PTZ Camera with 33x Optical Zoom

        The Lookout 2.0 v2 is the perfect PTZ for when you need to cover a wider area than just 100 feet away, like areas with wide-open spaces and heavy traffic. It's multi-directional viewing ability that can easily view up to sixteen preset locations in one go, this camera supports external mics as well. Panning movements across 360 degrees quickly with smooth transitions between each location.

        This device is perfect for any business that needs to monitor their warehouse or store from a distance without having to worry about missing anything important happening on the ground level. It's also great if you want an easy way to keep tabs on your employees while they're working remotely at different sites around town. You'll be able to see what they're doing and hear what they say all at once!

        With features like these, it's no wonder why so many businesses are turning towards The Lookout 2.0 today! If you have any questions about how this product could work best for your company then please contact us by phone or email anytime - we’re always happy to help our customers find the right solution for them!


      2. The Lookout Mini 5.0 - Mini PTZ with 4x zoom and active deterrence light

        Do you need to keep an eye on something?

        The Lookout Mini 5.0 is the perfect surveillance camera for any covert operation. It’s small enough to be hidden in plain sight, but powerful enough to get up close with a 4x zoom capability and see what’s going on from afar without being seen. This version has also been fitted with a white LED light as well as a red/white “siren style” light when day changes to night. Stealthy at 10FT and quick enough to catch thieves when they are completely unaware (at 30FT) The lookout name says it all.

        You can use your finger or mouse wheel to control the PTZ remotely, so you never have to leave your desk or stop working while keeping an eye on things. With our free app available for both iOS and Android devices, you can watch live video feeds from anywhere in the world! And if that wasn't cool enough already, we offer lifetime customer service through email and phone call - just in case anything goes wrong with your device!


      3. The Radius 5.0 - 26P5M - 5MP 360° Fisheye Dome Camera

        The Radius 5.0 a versatile camera with compatibility for both multiple setup and weatherproofing. A fisheye camera, the radius can capture views of an entire room or cubicle so you are always aware of what's happening.


      4. The Beacon 8.0 - 26ZV8M - 4K (8MP = 4x1080P) IP PTZ Camera with 40x Optical Zoom

        The Beacon 8.0 has a range of up to 2 miles and features high resolution, wide angle coverage that creates a fuller picture of the scene than any other camera, IR LEDs for nighttime visibility at distances up to 820 feet and weatherproofing so you can utilize this powerhouse wherever you need it most.

        With its powerful infrared night vision capabilities, you'll be able to monitor large spaces with ease no matter what time of day or night it is! This product will give your business all the tools it needs to succeed in today's competitive market. You won't regret investing in this long-range commercial-grade PTZ camera!

        The Beacon's 58.4-2.08 degree viewing angle let's you see more field of view than that offered by competitors while its automatic motion detection feature monitors boarder crossing without constant feed monitoring – just set your parameters and walk away!


      5. The Watchkeeper Dual Vision 4.0 PTZ + Fixed Lens Camera

        At SCW we've often stressed the importance of having wide angle coverage when using a PTZ. Now we've got a PTZ where the wide angle coverage is built right in! See both the wide and details with the Watchkeeper 4.0 Dual Vision PTZ!

        This camera uses two streams on your NVR, and gives you both a 4MP 95° wide angle fixed lens camera and a 25x 4MP 30FPS PTZ camera! All with just one cable run!

        It also has a white light on the fixed lens camera - so the white light is on during night time constantly.

      Cameras with an IP67 Rating


      1. The Scout 5.0 180° Ultra Wide Angle Turret Camera

        The Scout 5.0 is a ULTRA wide, 180° and features built in anti-distortion technology. The Scout is great for covering a lot of area with just a single camera.


      2. The Watchkeeper Dual Vision 4.0 PTZ + Fixed Lens Camera

        At SCW we've often stressed the importance of having wide angle coverage when using a PTZ. Now we've got a PTZ where the wide angle coverage is built right in! See both the wide and details with the Watchkeeper 4.0 Dual Vision PTZ!

        This camera uses two streams on your NVR, and gives you both a 4MP 95° wide angle fixed lens camera and a 25x 4MP 30FPS PTZ camera! All with just one cable run!

        It also has a white light on the fixed lens camera - so the white light is on during night time constantly.


      3. The Radius 12.0 v2 - 360°  Fisheye Camera

        The Radius 12.0 v2 - 360° Fisheye Camera

        In stock
        $1,100.00

        The Radius 12.0 v2 is a versatile camera with compatibility for both multiple setup and weatherproofing. A fisheye camera, the radius can capture views of an entire room or cubicle so you are always aware of what's happening. The output files are automatically dewarped into video, still image, or PTZ panoramic/ePTZ videos with one click.


      4. The Deputy 8.0 v4 - 26DF8M-V4 - 4K (8MP) Fixed Wide Angle Lens Turret Dome Camera

        The Deputy is our second most popular camera model. It is tied with the Warrior in terms of how easy it is to install and position since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 110 or 118-degree lens is best used to cover an entire room at once (by installing it in a corner) or to cover a wide area of a smaller yard, as wider lenses always decrease how far away you can identify a person or license plate. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common uses of the Deputy models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 4K variants) are to install the camera in the corner of a room or to cover front doors and porches outdoors. Two Deputies are often installed back-to-back to make a 220-236 degree view, such as in the middle of a wall. (This two-camera solution has less of that dizzying "fisheye" look that is common with 180-degree cameras and is also usually cheaper.)


      5. The Sheriff 8.0 v2 - 26DF8M-IK10-V2 - 4K (8MP = 4x1080P) Vandal Proof Fixed Wide Angle Lens IK10 Dome Camera

        The Sheriff is very similar to our Deputy model - except that it has a 1K10 vandal proof glass dome surrounding the lens. Glass domes are iconic and what people usually think of with a security camera, but the glass has benefits and drawbacks. Despite our logo being a glass dome camera shape, most of our models don't have them anymore because they aren't that DIY friendly. To install most glass dome cameras, you have to remove the outer dome to reveal the mounting screws and then screw the dome back on after mounting the camera. In more humid areas, this can trap moisture inside the camera; for this reason, most glass dome cameras are installed indoors. The Sheriff comes with some silicon moisture absorbing beads to help combat this issue (please don't remove them). Glass domes are sometimes used outdoors especially in situations like college campuses or apartment complexes where "non-destructive vandalism," such as turning the camera away from its intended target, is common. Glass domes do not hide which way the ip camera is pointed. IK10 is the highest measurement rating for protection from physical damage for security camera products, so it should protect against some destructive vandalism as well.


      6. The Sharpshooter 4.0 - 26BV4M-XLP- 4MP Ultra Long Range, Low Light Bullet Camera with Motorized Zoom and Focus

        The Sharpshooter is a 4MP super long range, low light bullet camera with motorized zoom and focus. It's used in situations where there is extreme distance (250-600 feet) between the mounting location and a stationary point of interest. This is the ultimate camera for collecting video evidence and seeing what's happening at a distance in complete darkness. It's ideal for securing large areas and is perfect for low light environments like warehouses, parking lots, construction sites and more!

        This camera features Extreme Cold Temperature rated from -40°F to 140 °F, 650 foot IR illuminator, Infrared night vision up to 500 FT and full protection from dust, rain, snow, dew, frost and sprinklers. With an oversized image sensor to allow in more light and a super-long range lens, this unit can even take photos down to 0.001 Lux – which is like looking through smoke!

        It features ultra low ambient light capability and the latest PoE compatibility allowing easy installation without needing separate power cables.


      7. The Archer 2.0 v2- 26BV2M-L - 2MP Long Range, Low Light Bullet Camera with Motorized Zoom and Focus

        The Archer is our long range, low light bullet camera. It has an oversized image sensor to allow in more light and is able to take color photos down to 0.002 lux. It also has a 325 foot IR illuminator and a long range lens. Like our other varifocal bullet cameras, it has a motorized telephoto lens that allows you to optically zoom in to see a distant area more clearly. The Archer is a great choice for anyone who needs long distance video surveillance at a range greater than 100 feet and but less than 300 feet. Those who need video at greater than 300 feet should consider our Sharpshooter model.


      8. The Watchkeeper 4.0 - 25x 6 Inch PTZ - 26ZV4M

        The Watchkeeper 4.0 - 25x 6 Inch PTZ - 26ZV4M

        In stock
        $850.00

        This device is perfect for any business that needs to monitor their warehouse or store from a distance without having to worry about missing anything important happening on the ground level. It's also great if you want an easy way to keep tabs on your employees while they're working remotely at different sites around town. You'll be able to see what they're doing and hear what they say all at once!

        With features like these, it's no wonder why so many businesses are turning towards The Watchkeeper 4.0 today! If you have any questions about how this product could work best for your company then please contact us by phone or email anytime - we’re always happy to help our customers find the right solution for them!


      9. The Warrior 8.0 v3 - 26BF8M-V3 - 4K (8MP) Fixed Lens Mini Bullet Camera

        The Warrior is our most popular camera model. It is tied with the Deputy in terms of how easy it is to install and position since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 86.5-degree lens with 4K resolution is a great balance between covering a large area and identifying faces and license plates. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common use of the Warrior models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 8MP) is to cover the side of buildings or large sections of yards.


      10. The Warrior 4.0 v3 - 26BF4M-V3 - 4MP (2x1080p) Fixed Lens Mini Bullet Camera

        The Warrior is our most popular camera model. It is tied with the Deputy in terms of how easy it is to install and position, since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 83 degree lens is great balance between covering a large area and identifying faces and license plates. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common use of the Warrior models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 8MP) is to cover the side of buildings or large sections of yards.


      11. The Warrior 2.0 v3 - 26BF2M-V3 - 1080P 2MP Fixed Lens Mini Bullet Camera

        The Warrior is our most popular camera model. It is tied with the Deputy in terms of how easy it is to install and position, since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 91 degree lens is great balance between covering a large area and identifying faces and license plates. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common use of the Warrior models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 8MP) is to cover the side of buildings or large sections of yards.


      12. The Deputy 4.0 v3 - 26DF4M-V3 - 4MP (2x1080p) Fixed Lens Turret Dome Camera

        The Deputy is our second most popular camera model. It is tied with the Warrior in terms of how easy it is to install and position since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 110 or 118-degree lens is best used to cover an entire room at once (by installing it in a corner) or to cover a wide area of a smaller yard, as wider lenses always decrease how far away you can identify a person or license plate. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common uses of the Deputy models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 4K variants) are to install the camera in the corner of a room or to cover front doors and porches outdoors. Two Deputies are often installed back-to-back to make a 220-236 degree view, such as in the middle of a wall. (This two-camera solution has less of that dizzying "fisheye" look that is common with 180-degree cameras and is also usually cheaper.)


      13. The Deputy 2.0 v3 - 26DF2M-V3 - 2MP (1080P) Fixed Wide Angle Lens Turret Dome Camera

        The Deputy is our second most popular camera model. It is tied with the Warrior in terms of how easy it is to install and position since neither camera requires you to remove any part of the camera to screw it into the wall/ceiling/soffit. This makes it ideal for outdoor use as you don't have a tendency to trap moisture in the lens, as is common with dome cameras, where you have to remove the outer glass dome to mount them. The 110 or 118-degree lens is best used to cover an entire room at once (by installing it in a corner) or to cover a wide area of a smaller yard, as wider lenses always decrease how far away you can identify a person or license plate. Although you can use this camera inside or out, the most common uses of the Deputy models (the camera comes in 2MP, 4MP, or 4K variants) are to install the camera in the corner of a room or to cover front doors and porches outdoors. Two Deputies are often installed back-to-back to make a 220-236 degree view, such as in the middle of a wall. (This two-camera solution has less of that dizzying "fisheye" look that is common with 180-degree cameras and is also usually cheaper.)


      14. The Informant 4.0 v2 - 26DF4M-A - Mini Dome Camera with Microphone

        The Informant 4.0 v2 is a mini dome that also has an integrated microphone for audio surveillance It should be able to pick up a normal speaking voice at 15 feet. It has an 1K10 vandal proof glass dome surrounding the lens. Glass domes are iconic and what people usually think of with a security camera, but the glass has benefits and drawbacks. Despite our logo being a glass dome camera shape, most of our models don't have them anymore because they aren't that DIY friendly. To install most glass dome cameras, you have to remove the outer dome to reveal the mounting screws and then screw the dome back on after mounting the camera. In more humid areas, this can trap moisture inside the camera; for this reason, most glass dome cameras are installed indoors. The Informant comes with some silicon moisture absorbing beads to help combat this issue (please don't remove them). Glass domes are sometimes used outdoors especially in situations like college campuses or apartment complexes where "non-destructive vandalism," such as turning the camera away from its intended target, is common. Glass domes do not hide which way the camera is pointed. 1K10 is the highest measurement rating for protection from physical damage for security camera products, so it should protect against some destructive vandalism as well. Unlike recording video, recording audio is heavily regulated. It is very important when recording audio to follow the rules and regulations set out in the Federal Wiretap Act; because of this law, the microphone's default setting is "off." If you want to turn the microphone on, we will gladly help you, but you should make sure you are complying with the law before doing so.


      15. The Paladin 8.0 - 26BF8M-L-A - 8MP (4x1080P)

        The Paladin 8.0 - 26BF8M-L-A - 8MP (4x1080P)

        In stock
        $325.00

        The Paladin 8.0 is a bullet camera with a unique feature set. The Paladin features a 2.8mm wide angle lens, a built in microphone and speaker, and active deterrence white light feature. The Paladin is a great choice for situations where you want a bullet, but want that giant wide angle view. Use the Paladin at gates to use two way audio through the SCW Go app with it's built in microphone and speaker. The Paladin also acts as a great restricted area camera thanks to the VCA activated white light feature with audio warnings.


      16. The Detective 8.0 - 26DV8M-A - 8MP (4x1080P) Multi-Purpose Lens Turret Dome Camera with Motorized Zoom and Focus and Audio Microphone

        The Detective has a motorized varifocal lens that allows you to optically zoom in to see a distant area more clearly. You can adjust the angle of view with our apps, over the web, or via your SCW NVR. Just like with a point-and-shoot camera or a pair of binoculars, when you narrow the field-of-view, you zoom in on an area and you can see more detail in that area. Although the Detective is a very popular camera for homes that have a mid-range (35-100 foot) points of concern like gates, roads or driveways, this camera is also frequently used is corporate environment such as long and narrow warehouse aisles.


      17. The Viking 8.0 - 26BV8M-A - 8MP (4x1080P) Multi-Purpose Lens Bullet Camera with Motorized Zoom and Focus

        The Viking 8.0 is a popular choice for high-quality video surveillance. This Multi-Purpose Bullet camera is perfect for your home or business if you need to secure a long and narrow area such as roads, driveways, warehouse aisles and more.

        This 8MP (4x1080P) bullet camera suits a variety of uses and features a motorized varifocal lens that allows you to optically zoom in to see a distant area more clearly. You can adjust the angle of view with our apps, over the web, or via your SCW NVR. This camera is also frequently used in corporate environments and just like with a point-and-shoot camera or a pair of binoculars, when you narrow the field-of-view, you zoom in on an area to see more detail in that area.

        With its high resolution image sensor and wide dynamic range capability, The Viking provides clear images day or night while able to identify someone up to 125 feet. This plug & play bullet camera is built tough enough to handle any weather condition and ready to take on any job thrown its way.