What Does IPX6 and IPX7 Waterproof Rating Mean?
When you are out on the trail, and your hike just turned into a muddy downpour mess of an afternoon, you'll want to make sure that you are carrying a GPS that is rated to handle the weather.
Most handheld GPS units are rated to the IPX7 waterproofing standard; a pretty good standard that keeps the unit sound in the face of whatever a typical hike bike, run or other outing can throw at it. Some handhelds are rated to the IPX6 standard; which is a lower standard that doesn't offer the immersion capability that the IPX7 does...... Immersion capability? Yes, see below:
IPX6 Waterproof Standard
Heavy splashing and rain - This test sends water at all angles through a 12.5mm nozzle at a rate of 100 liters/min at a pressure of 100kN/m2 for 3 minutes from a distance of 3 meters. Must not fail or show water seepage.
IPX-7 Waterproof Standard
Puddle, stream, beer cooler and splash rated - Protected against water immersion - Immersion for 30 minutes at a depth of 1 meter.
I have had my GPS units out in the driving rain for hours and have dropped them in muddy puddles without issue on the IPX7 standard. I like it and it works for almost anything you can throw at it on a typical day.... except dropping it overboard on a boat..... and luckily that hasn't happened.
Photo via:Tom Curtis / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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Posted by Scott Martin at March 8, 2010 6:40 AM
I had a etrex vista, rated IPX7, fail from splashing while in my kayak. No dunking, never near the water, the most was getting splashed by my oar. Thankfully, I bought at REI, so got a new one without issue. Now I always keep it in a waterproof bag.
I think the ratings are bunk
I specifically asked Garmin about this, unfortunately after I bought my Colorado (IPX7), regarding use in a kayak.
They recommended against it.
The ratings are a joke. Why rate it as submersible for 10mins then recommend that it won't survive splashing in a kayak?
I reckon the biggest issue will be water (& salt) ingress into the plugs under the protective cap on top of the unit, which will cause failure of the external antenna socket & the usb cable socket. I can live without the antenna socket but once the usb socket goes it will be useless.
Dave
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