What are IK Ratings in Digital Signage?

The IK rating is an international standard indicating the level of impact resistance of a product. The British standard BS EN 62262 is associated with IK ratings and is used to determine the level of protection against external mechanical impacts. In digital signage terms, this often refers to the strength of the lens of a screen or its enclosure and therefore the protection that is offered against vandalism. On products such as outdoor digital signage, you will often find the IK rating on the corresponding technical sheet. The IK rating informs potential buyers about the product’s ability to withstand impacts, aiding in decision-making when choosing digital signage for environments prone to vandalism or accidental damage.

IK-rated digital signage products are prominently used in high-traffic, public-facing areas where the likelihood of intentional or accidental damage is higher. These might include bustling city centres, popular parks, busy transportation hubs like airports or train stations, college campuses, and sports arenas. The robust construction of IK-rated digital signage ensures it remains functional and visible even in challenging conditions, demonstrating its durability and resilience.

IK Rated products are crucial, particularly in public areas, high-traffic zones, commercial environments, and vandalism-prone areas. When a product gets damaged, it may fail to function or even cease working altogether. Repairing or replacing the damaged product incurs additional costs and may require closing off areas for access. A broken product can also pose hazards, such as debris or insufficient illumination/information, especially in public spaces. Therefore, assessing the risk of impact is vital in determining the need for fixtures with high or low IK Ratings.

The rating levels range from 00 to 10, indicating the degree of protection against impact force. A product with a higher IK Rating will be able to withstand more severe impacts without damage. Here is a brief overview of the different IK Ratings:

• IK00: No protection against external mechanical impacts.

• IK01: Minimal protection against impact from small solid objects.

• IK02: Protection against impacts from solid objects with a diameter of 12.5mm or larger.

• IK03: Suitable for low-risk applications, providing protection against small tools and wires.

• IK04: Offers moderate protection against external mechanical force up to 0.5 joules.

• IK05: Provides protection against moderate impact levels, such as a hammer strike.

• IK06: Can withstand high energy impacts equivalent to a 1 kg weight dropped from 20cm in height.

• IK07: Offers excellent protection against heavy impact, equivalent to a 2kg weight dropped from 40cm in height.

• IK08: Suitable for highly demanding environments with a high risk of vandalism, withstands impacts equivalent to a 5kg weight dropped from 40cm in height.

• IK09: Ideal for extreme conditions with frequent and severe vandalism attempts, providing protection against impacts equivalent to a 10kg weight dropped from 20cm in height.

• IK10: Offers the highest level of impact resistance, able to withstand impacts equivalent to a 5kg weight dropped from 40cm in height with an added force.

In conclusion, the IK rating is crucial information to consider when selecting digital signage for outdoor and high-traffic areas. The higher the IK Rating, the more durable and resistant the product will be against vandalism and external mechanical impacts. Therefore, understanding the different levels of IK Ratings can help you make an informed decision when choosing the right digital signage for your needs.