Introduction to the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E and its key features
The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E 5MP TurboHD PoC Fixed Turret Camera is a compact, cost-effective analogue CCTV camera designed for reliable indoor and outdoor surveillance. Marketed as a 5MP HD‑TVI PoC turret camera with a fixed 2.8 mm lens, EXIR night vision and IP67 weatherproofing, it strikes a balance between higher-resolution imaging and simple, installer-friendly deployment. With a suggested price of $44.99, the camera targets small businesses, installers and homeowners who want improved image detail without the complexity or cost of an IP system.
Key features at a glance:
- 5 MP CMOS sensor providing up to 2560 × 1944 resolution (5M at 20 fps)
- Power-over-Coax (PoC) support or 12 V DC input for flexible powering
- EXIR Smart IR for night vision up to approximately 40 metres
- Fixed 2.8 mm lens with around 85° horizontal field of view
- Image enhancement technologies: Digital WDR, Smart IR, 2D DNR, BLC/HLC
- IP67-rated housing for reliable outdoor protection
Detailed specifications and benefits
At the heart of the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E is a 5 MP CMOS sensor capable of 2560 × 1944 resolution at 20 fps. This resolution provides noticeably sharper images than standard 2MP (1080p) analogue cameras, making it easier to identify faces, read license plates at moderate distances and capture finer scene detail. Frame rates vary by resolution, with common modes such as 4M at 25/30 fps and full 1080p at 25/30 fps for compatibility with a wide range of recorders.
Image quality benefits are reinforced by a suite of image processing tools: Digital Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) helps balance bright and dark areas in mixed-light scenes (for example, entrances with backlighting), while Backlight Compensation (BLC) and High Light Compensation (HLC) assist in exposure control when facing headlights or strong light sources. 2D Digital Noise Reduction (2D DNR) lowers noise in low-light conditions to improve clarity and reduce bandwidth/storage burden on compatible recorders. Smart IR prevents IR overexposure on close objects so that faces remain discernible at night.
For nighttime coverage the camera uses EXIR illumination with an effective range up to approximately 40 metres. EXIR typically gives more uniform IR illumination and better centre-to-edge coverage than older IR LED designs, which translates to cleaner monochrome images after dark and improved long-range detection on perimeter scenes.
One standout practical feature is Power-over-Coax (PoC) support. PoC lets a compatible DVR supply power over the same coaxial cable used for video, which simplifies wiring and reduces installation time and cost—especially in retrofit projects where running separate power cables would be disruptive or expensive. As an alternative, the unit accepts a 12 V DC input when PoC is not available.
Environmental and mechanical specifications make the turret suitable for outdoor use. The housing is IP67 rated, so the camera is sealed against dust and can withstand immersion up to specified limits, making it resilient to rain and typical outdoor conditions. The operating temperature range from -40 °C to 60 °C covers most climates, and compact dimensions (91.0 mm × Ø109.8 mm) at approximately 326 g make it unobtrusive on walls or soffits.
The camera’s power consumption is modest (max. 3 W), which keeps operating costs low and reduces load on PoC-capable DVRs. The dual option of PoC or 12 V DC gives greater flexibility for both new installs and upgrades without rewiring.
- Image sensor: 5 MP CMOS
- Max resolution: 2560 × 1944 (5M) @ 20 fps
- Minimum illumination: 0.01 Lux (F2.0, AGC ON); 0 Lux with IR
- Lens: 2.8 mm fixed (≈85° HFOV), M12 mount; 3.6 mm variant available
- IR range: EXIR up to 40 m
- Power input: 12 V DC ±25% or PoC; Max power ~3 W
- Protection: IP67; operating temperature -40 °C to 60 °C
- Dimensions: 91.0 mm × Ø109.8 mm; Weight: ≈ 326 g
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E shines in situations where higher-resolution analogue video, simple installation and outdoor resilience are needed without the complexity or expense of a full IP deployment. Typical scenarios include:
- Small retail and shopfronts:The 5MP resolution helps capture register areas and doorways with more detail to support loss prevention and incident investigations.
- Residential perimeter and property monitoring:Mounted on eaves or gates, the camera offers a wide field of view and long-range IR for driveway and yard surveillance.
- Commercial entrances and small offices:Effective for monitoring lobbies, access points and parking areas where image clarity matters but PoE/IP infrastructure is unavailable.
- Integrator and retrofit projects:PoC compatibility makes it ideal for replacing older analogue cameras while avoiding additional power cabling—saving time and cost on upgrades.
- Perimeter and low-light environments:EXIR to ~40 m and Smart IR contribute to better night-time coverage along fences, alleys and external building lines.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E, it helps to compare it across a few axes: resolution, power options, weatherproofing, and system architecture (analogue vs IP).
Vs older 2MP analogue cameras:The obvious advantage is resolution—5MP captures finer detail than 1080p, improving identification at medium distances. That said, some lower-resolution models offer slightly higher frame rates at 1080p, which may matter for high-motion scenes.
Vs IP (network) cameras:IP cameras can offer higher resolutions, advanced analytics, and direct network integration, but they require network infrastructure, potentially PoE switches and more complex configuration. The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E is simpler and often cheaper to deploy where coaxial cabling already exists; PoC support means minimal rewiring for many retrofit projects.
Vs other PoC-capable analogue turrets:Features like EXIR up to 40 m, Digital WDR and low power consumption make the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E competitive. Differences between models usually come down to lens options (2.8 mm vs 3.6 mm which change field of view), IR range, build quality and manufacturer software compatibility. If you need a narrower field of view or more zoom, a 3.6 mm variant or a varifocal camera might be preferable.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
While specific customer testimonials for this exact model may not be widely published, installers and end users typically highlight a few recurring points for PoC TurboHD turret cameras like the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E:
- Ease of installation: PoC capability reduces cabling complexity and speeds up retrofits, which installers appreciate on time-sensitive jobs.
- Good value for money: For SMBs and homeowners the 5MP resolution at a budget-friendly price point is often seen as a strong trade-off between image quality and cost.
- Reliable outdoor performance: IP67-rated housings and broad operating temperatures are praised for resilience against weather and seasonal extremes.
- Night performance variability: Users note that while EXIR offers good long-range coverage, scene-specific factors (ambient lighting, reflective surfaces) still affect nighttime image quality as with any IR camera.
If you’re sourcing cameras for a project, ask your supplier for demo footage or to trial a camera on-site: this is the best way to confirm whether the 2.8 mm field of view and night performance meet your specific needs.
Conclusion: why the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E is a strong choice
The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E 5MP TurboHD PoC Fixed Turret Camera is a practical, cost-effective option for users who want improved image detail and reliable outdoor performance without committing to a full IP camera ecosystem. Its combination of 5MP resolution, EXIR night vision to around 40 m, PoC support and IP67 weatherproofing makes it particularly attractive for retrofit installs, small businesses and residential perimeter monitoring.
While IP cameras still lead for advanced analytics and higher bandwidth applications, this TurboHD PoC turret provides a low-friction, economical solution for many standard surveillance needs. If your project relies on existing coaxial infrastructure or needs a budget-friendly upgrade path to higher resolution, the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E is a compelling candidate—especially given its modest power draw and flexible powering options.
Note:Always consult the supplied datasheet and user manual for full compliance, installation guidance and to confirm compatibility with recorders. Installation should be carried out by a qualified installer in line with local regulations and the product manual to ensure correct power selection (PoC or 12 V DC) and safe operation.
