What is a NEMA 4/4X TV Enclosure?
A NEMA 4/4X TV enclosure is used for either indoor or outdoor use and provides protection for a TV against hazardous parts, water (rain, sleet, snow, splashing water, hose-directed water, and formation of ice), and entry of solid foreign objects (falling dirt, windblown dust, etc.). A NEMA 4X enclosure adds corrosion resistance. These enclosures are designed to be wash-down ready, protecting the TVs they house from water, including hose-directed sprays.
NEMA 4/4X TV Enclosure Specifications
For a TV enclosure to be rated NEMA 4/4X, it must satisfy the following:
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Protection against access to hazardous parts:
- Materials and construction prevent easy access to internal components.
- Openings, joints, and seams are sealed tightly.
- Complies with safety standards for both indoor and outdoor use.
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Ingress protection against solid foreign objects:
- Durable construction blocks dirt, dust, and debris.
- Seals and gaskets cover any potential entry points.
- Designed to withstand windblown dust and falling dirt.
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Ingress protection against water:
- Sealed to guard against rain, sleet, and snow.
- Withstands splashing and hose-directed water.
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Resistance to external ice formation:
- Materials withstand ice without damage.
- Design prevents structural or functional harm from ice buildup.
- Suitable for the intended temperature extremes.
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Corrosion resistance (4X only):
- Uses corrosion-resistant materials or coatings to protect against environmental corrosives.
NEMA 4/4X and IP 65/66 Equivalence
The IP (Ingress Protection) rating system is an international standard (IEC) that classifies enclosure resistance to solids and moisture. NEMA 4/4X is roughly equivalent to IP 65/66, offering protection against dust, corrosion, and hose-directed water. A TV enclosure meeting these standards will guard against hazardous access, solid ingress, water exposure, and ice formation.
