The cameras that are used for the security system for closed circuit television are rated on their toughness through the Ingress Protection (IP) rating system.  This rates the CCTV camera kit on both its resistance to water and moisture as well as its reliance to physical objects, inside and out.

The IP rating for an outdoor camera consists of a two digit number, and each number is rating a different aspect of it, and the higher the number, the better the rating.  For example, when a camera has an IP rating of 67, the first number, 6, rates the cameras ability to withstand things being inserted into its enclosure as well as how well it is protected from the internal parts that move, for example, fingers, getting tangled in the gears.  6 is the best rating for this part of the system, thus the camera is both dust tight and it has protected moving parts.  It would be suitable for a dusty place such as an attic, garage or basement, or outside in a desert.

The second number stands for the rating of how waterproof the enclosure for the camera is.  This scale is zero to eight, so our example of 7 is really good, but not the best.  A number 7 means that, for a limited amount of time, you can submerge it.  It would take a rating no less than 8 to use this one at the bottom of a swimming pool.

Of course, you get what you pay for, so the cameras with the higher rating will be more costly.  For your home, a rating of 54 or higher should be fine unless you live in a desert area, or a place with monsoons, such as Japan.  This is sufficient protection from both rain and dust and the small wildlife usually found in and around the garden area, unless you live in a desert area, or a place with monsoons, such as Japan.  Be sure and check those numbers, if it important enough to require a good CCTV camera kit, you want to make sure they will be working when you need them.

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