How to Choose Waterproof Enclosures For Electronics

Businesses and individuals alike often times have reasons for needing computers located outside. No matter the reason why you need a computer outside, protecting it from the natural elements is an important task to undertake. There is a fairly simple solution to this problem and it is waterproof enclosures. Specifically, waterproof enclosures designed to house and protect computers and other electronic equipment.

Waterproof enclosures can be produced using both metals and plastics, and are available in a wide variety of models. The purpose of these containers is to create a watertight container for storage of your equipment. Of course, if you are planning on using your equipment outside then it will need power in order to work. Depending on the box you may need to punch a hole in order to run the power cord to an outlet. Although putting holes in the container may increase the potential of water damage, after running the cords it is possible to seal the hole and retain the majority of the initial amount of protection.

One of the biggest concerns in the minds of customers looking to purchase waterproof enclosures is probably regarding safety. There is no need to worry though, these enclosures are perfectly safe in regards to anyone who would be using the equipment inside. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) has set guidelines for the protection of outdoor electrical equipment from the elements as well as other man-made contaminants. When looking at enclosures you may see they have a NEMA rating. Any enclosure with a NEMA rating of 3 or higher is suitable for outdoor use. Along with the NEMA rating, there may also be an ingress protection (IP) rating. The IP rating is in regards to waterproof enclosures that have been punctured in order to run electrical cables. To make things short and simple, when looking to purchase a container it would be best to find one with a NEMA rating of NEMA 4 or 6 and an IP rating of IP66 or IP67.

Regardless of why you would have your electrical equipment outside, you want to protect it as best as you can. There are a huge variety in the types of models to choose from, different sizes, materials and shapes. There are plenty of options available for everyone, so you should not have trouble finding something that suits your needs, whether that might be a plastic or a stainless steel enclosure. There are plenty of benefits in purchasing waterproof enclosures, but none for deciding against making the purchase.