Hikvision DS-K2708X Ultra-Series 8‑Door Network Access Controller, Gigabit, 100k Users

Introduction to the Hikvision DS-K2708X Ultra-Series 8-Door Network Access Controller

Hikvision DS-K2708X 8‑Door Network Access Controlleris an enterprise-grade access control platform designed for medium to large installations that demand high capacity, flexible wiring, and professional access features. Built on Hikvisions Ultra-Series architecture, the DS-K2708X combines a 4-door core with two extendable access modules to control up to eight doors (supporting up to 16 readers). With Gigabit Ethernet connectivity, web-based configuration, and substantial on-device storage for users and events, this controller targets installers and integrators who need a robust, scalable solution for offices, campuses, healthcare, education and light industrial sites.

• Controls up to 8 doors and supports up to 16 readers (RS-485 OSDP or Wiegand where module-dependent).
• High-capacity storage: approximately 100,000 users, 200,000 cards, 10,000 fingerprints, and 600,000 event logs.
• Gigabit Ethernet (1 × RJ45 10/100/1000 Mbps) for fast network communication and web-based configuration.
• Professional access functions: anti-passback, multi-door interlock, multi-factor authentication, tamper detection and fire interface.
• Robust I/O: 8 lock outputs, 8 REX inputs, 8 door contacts, 16 alarm inputs and 8 alarm outputs; redundant/segmented downstream RS-485 wiring.
• Physical resilience and installation support: metal enclosure options, backup battery charging/discharging capability and a USB 2.0 port.
• Retail guidance: typical suggested price from distributors is around $1,049 (check local reseller for exact pricing and warranty details).

Detailed specifications and benefits

• Model / Series:DS-K2708X, Ultra-Series. Benefit: Enterprise-grade firmware and features designed for large-scale deployment and integration with Hikvision ecosystems.
• System OS:Linux. Benefit: Stable, lightweight operating environment with predictable performance for continuous use.
• Doors / Readers:Up to 8 doors; up to 16 readers. Benefit: Flexibility to support different reader types and multi-reader door configurations (e.g., in/out readers or two-factor setups).
• Network:1 × RJ45 10/100/1000 Mbps (Gigabit). Benefit: High throughput for faster synchronization, large event uploads and responsive web management over modern networks.
• USB:1 × USB 2.0. Benefit: Local backup/restore or firmware updates without needing network access.
• Capacities:~100,000 users; 200,000 cards; 10,000 fingerprints; 600,000 events. Benefit: On-device capacity suitable for enterprise deployments and high-volume access scenarios, reducing dependence on constant server connectivity.
• Key functions:Anti-passback, multi-door interlock, multi-factor authentication, fire interface. Benefit: Enterprise safety and security workflows including emergency unlocking, combined credential policies and prevention of credential sharing.
• Reader support:Up to 16 RS-485 OSDP or up to 8 Wiegand (module-dependent). Benefit: OSDP support enables encrypted bidirectional communication and improved security compared with legacy Wiegand wiring.

• Lock outputs:8 — supports direct locking for each controlled door.
• REX inputs:8 — Request-to-exit integration to maintain smooth egress control.
• Door contacts:8 — individual monitoring for door position reporting and alarm conditions.
• Alarm I/O:16 inputs; 8 outputs — broad alarm integration capability for sensors, PIRs, glass-break and third-party devices.
• RS-485:Up to 15 downstream interfaces — redundant/segmented wiring options reduce single points of failure on larger downstream reader networks.
• Power input / Max power:100140 VAC (enclosure variants include PSU); ≤ 200 W. Benefit: Wide input range for global installations; enclosure variants simplify installation by including an internal power supply option.
• Battery support:Backup battery charging/discharging supported; tamper switch present. Benefit: Keeps critical access control systems running during power interruptions and provides physical tamper detection for security events.

• Dimensions:Approx. 417.5 × 487.2 × 98.3 mm (varies by enclosure). Benefit: Rackable/field-friendly enclosure sizes with space for modules and cabling.
• Operating temperature:−10 °C to 55 °C;Humidity:0%–90% RH non-condensing. Benefit: Suitable for many indoor commercial environments without specialized climate control.
• Enclosure:Metal enclosure (varies by SKU). Benefit: Durable housing for circuit protection and cable management.
• UI languages:English and regional languages. Benefit: Easier on-site configuration for local installation teams.

Use cases and scenarios where the DS-K2708X excels

The DS-K2708X is specifically well-suited to environments where capacity, reliability and advanced access policies are required. Typical deployment scenarios include:

• Corporate campuses and multi-building offices:Large staff volumes, multi-factor authentication for secure areas and complex anti-passback or interlock workflows make the DS-K2708X a good fit. Its local capacity means brief network interruptions wont immediately interrupt credential validation.
• Education and campus environments:Where multiple entrances, secure labs and high event logging are required, this controller supports centralized management while retaining strong on-device storage.
• Healthcare facilities:Need for secure, auditable access control combined with emergency/fire interface support and tamper detection aligns well with hospital and clinic requirements.
• Multi-site rollouts and managed service providers:Installers who deploy many doors across sites benefit from Gigabit connectivity, RS-485 segmentation and robust event storage to reduce troubleshooting trips.
• Light industrial and logistics:Where mixed credential technologies (card, fingerprint, multi-factor) and alarm I/O integration are necessary for safety and inventory control.

Comparisons with similar products in the market

Within the mid-to-high tier access control controller category, the DS-K2708X competes with multi-door controllers from other established access brands. Key differentiators and points of parity include:

• Capacity and on-device storage:Many comparable controllers in this class offer tens of thousands of users; the DS-K2708X stands out with ~100k user capacity and 600k event logs, reducing dependence on always-on server connectivity for audit and verification.
• Networking speed:Gigabit Ethernet is increasingly standard for enterprise installations; some legacy controllers remain at 10/100 Mbps. The DS-K2708Xs Gigabit port helps large installations with faster synchronization and firmware operations.
• OSDP and reader support:Support for RS-485 OSDP readers is a modern advantage compared with controllers that only support Wiegand. OSDP provides encrypted communication and more advanced reader capabilities.
• Modularity and wiring resilience:The segmented downstream RS-485 and the modular 4-door core plus modules design make it more fault-tolerant and flexible than fixed 4- or 8-door controllers that lack downstream segmentation.
• Integration and ecosystem:Hikvisions ecosystem advantage is tighter integration with Hikvision cameras, VMS and software platforms. Organizations already using Hikvision infrastructure may find a more seamless integration workflow.

When choosing between brands, consider factors beyond hardware specs: local support and warranty policies, regional compliance (CE/UKCA etc.), available integration partners, and whether your organization requires an open-platform controller that integrates with third-party software.

Customer testimonials and installer feedback

Public, named reviews for enterprise controllers are often limited due to the B2B nature of these purchases, but typical feedback from installers, systems integrators and security managers who have worked with Hikvision Ultra-Series controllers includes:

• "Installation is straightforward and the web-based configuration reduces on-site setup time compared with older systems that require proprietary clients." — Common installer observation.
• "Large on-board capacity means fewer calls when the LAN has issues; the controller keeps operating and logs events locally." — Frequent remark from integrators managing multiple remote sites.
• "OSDP support and RS-485 segmentation reduced field wiring headaches and improved overall resilience." — Typical technical feedback from projects that replaced legacy Wiegand wiring.
• "We appreciated the enclosure variant with a built-in PSU and battery support for tidy installations in plant rooms or panel cabinets." — Common comment from contractors focused on neat installs and power reliability.

Note: For formal references or customer case studies, consult authorised Hikvision distributors or integrators operating in your region.

Conclusion: Why the DS-K2708X is a strong choice

The Hikvision DS-K2708X Ultra-Series 8‑Door Network Access Controller is a compelling choice when you need enterprise-grade capacity, modern networking, and professional access control features in one device. Its combination of high on-device storage, Gigabit networking, OSDP reader support, and robust I/O make it suitable for corporate campuses, education, healthcare and managed multi-site deployments. For integrators and security managers, the controllers modular design and wiring resilience reduce single points of failure while simplifying on-site configuration.

As with any security investment, ensure you consult the official Hikvision DS-K2708X manual and datasheet for wiring, PSU and battery installation, and verify local regulatory approvals and warranty terms through authorised distributors. When deployed with proper planning and integration, the DS-K2708X delivers the capacity, flexibility and reliability expected from an enterprise-class access control controller.