Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) — Key Features
The Hikvision DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) is a 5 MP TurboHD analogue outdoor turret camera that brings high-resolution imaging and flexible optics to coax-based CCTV installations. Marketed as a5 MP Motorised Varifocal Turret, this unit combines a 5 MP (2560 × 1944) CMOS sensor, a motorised 2.7–13.5 mm varifocal lens, switchable analog HD outputs (TVI/AHD/CVI) and smart night-time illumination — all packaged in an IP67-rated metal housing. It is aimed at users who want a simple upgrade path to higher resolution over existing coax wiring, while keeping commissioning and focal adjustments fast and precise.
Detailed Specifications and Benefits
At the heart of this turret camera is a 5 MP CMOS sensor that delivers crisp, detailed images suitable for perimeter monitoring, entrance captures and environments where higher resolution helps with identification. The camera’s maximum resolution of 2560 × 1944 gives noticeably more detail than common 2 MP units, improving the ability to read registration plates or recognise faces at moderate distances.
The motorised 2.7–13.5 mm varifocal lens (Φ14 mount) provides a horizontal field of view of approximately 95° on the wide end down to about 26° at tele. Because the lens is motorised, installers and integrators can perform remote zoom and focus adjustments during commissioning without physical access to the camera — a significant time-saver for elevated or difficult-to-reach mountings.
Low-light sensitivity is aided by a minimum illumination rating of 0.01 Lux (AGC ON) and 0 Lux with IR, plus Smart IR illumination effective to around 40 m. Smart IR helps prevent overexposure of close objects when infrared is active, producing more usable black-and-white images at night across the scene.
This model includes digital WDR, 2D DNR (digital noise reduction), and backlight control options (BLC/HLC/DWDR). These tools improve dynamic-range situations such as bright backgrounds with dark foregrounds or noisy low-light footage, resulting in better recognition performance and reduced storage needs thanks to cleaner images.
Designed for HD-over-coax systems, the DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) supports switchable outputs: TVI, AHD, CVI and legacy CVBS. That broad compatibility makes it easy to integrate into a range of DVRs and hybrid recorders without rewiring, reducing upgrade friction for sites with existing coax runs.
The camera’s metal housing and IP67 ingress protection rating mean it is built for outdoor use, resisting dust and water ingress in typical external environments. It measures approximately 123.9 × 110.2 × 134.3 mm and weighs around 555 g. Electrical requirements are straightforward: 12 VDC input with a maximum power draw of approximately 6.2 W. Note: always follow local wiring regulations and use a stable 12 VDC power source.
- High-resolution 5 MP sensor for improved identification and situational awareness.
- Motorised varifocal lens enables remote zoom/focus — faster and safer commissioning.
- Switchable analogue outputs for broad DVR compatibility.
- Smart IR and image enhancement features for usable night footage.
- Rugged IP67 metal housing for most outdoor installations.
Use Cases and Ideal Scenarios
The DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) excels in a number of practical surveillance situations where a combination of high resolution, flexible optics and outdoor durability are required:
- Residential perimeter and driveway monitoring:The wide-to-tele zoom range lets you capture broad scenes or zoom in to capture license plates or faces on approach. Motorised adjustment means the camera can be fine-tuned remotely during installation.
- Retail frontages and entrances:Use the tele end of the lens to focus on doorway areas for clearer facial recognition during investigations, or the wide end to monitor entire storefronts.
- Light commercial sites and small warehouses:Ideal where existing coax cabling is in place and site managers want higher resolution without a full migration to IP systems.
- School and community facility perimeters:Durable IP67 housing and Smart IR make it suitable for outdoor areas that require all-weather surveillance and nighttime coverage.
Comparisons with Similar Products
When choosing between camera types and models, consider these comparison points:
TurboHD analogue cameras like this Hikvision model are excellent for users who want higher-definition video over existing coax. They are generally simpler to install into legacy DVRs and cost-effective for incremental upgrades. IP cameras provide more features (PoE, onboard analytics, higher frame rates, networked management and easier remote access) but often require network infrastructure and can be more complex and costly to deploy at scale.
A motorised varifocal lens delivers flexibility during setup and future-proofing if the scene or coverage needs change. Fixed-lens cameras are simpler and sometimes cheaper but require physical access for any focal adjustment. For elevated mounts or where precise framing matters, the motorised varifocal is a clear advantage.
Turret cameras provide easier lens orientation and are often better for outdoor IR performance because the IR LEDs are offset from the lens. Dome cameras offer a lower-profile look and some vandal resistance, but can be more challenging for angled installations and IR performance in some designs.
Within Hikvision’s analogue portfolio, you’ll find other turret and bullet models with different resolutions (2 MP, 4 MP, 5 MP) and fixed or varifocal lenses. The DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) stands out for marrying 5 MP detail with a motorised 2.7–13.5 mm zoom and broad analog compatibility — a compelling option for customers prioritising high resolution on coax wiring.
Customer Feedback and Installer Notes
Official customer testimonials for specific SKUs may vary by reseller and region. Broadly speaking, feedback from installers and end users for cameras in this class highlights a few recurring themes:
- Installers appreciate the motorised varifocal function, which reduces ladder time and repeated site visits for focus/zoom tweaks.
- Upgraders like the ability to reuse coax cabling and mix camera outputs with hybrid DVRs, lowering overall upgrade costs.
- End users value the improved clarity from 5 MP sensors compared with older 2 MP systems, particularly for perimeter and driveway use.
If you are evaluating this camera, ask your supplier for sample footage, compatibility confirmation with your DVR model, and any local customer reviews to better understand real-world performance in environments similar to yours.
Practical Considerations and Installation Tips
- Confirm the correct SKU/variant for your region and recorder compatibility — the camera supports TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS but recording equipment must match the selected output.
- Use a regulated 12 VDC supply sized to handle the camera’s max consumption (≈6.2 W) plus cable voltage drop, especially for longer runs.
- For best night images, allow the camera to adjust IR settings and test at the installation site to fine-tune exposure and angle to minimise glare or overexposure from nearby reflective surfaces.
- Check local regulations and standards, and confirm CE/UKCA and any other certifications with your supplier when required for compliance.
Conclusion — Why Choose the DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C)?
The Hikvision DS-2CE79H0T-IT3ZF(C) is a practical, cost-effective solution for those who want higher-resolution surveillance over coax wiring without the complexity of a full IP migration. Its 5 MP sensor and motorised 2.7–13.5 mm varifocal lens deliver flexibility and image detail that suit residential, retail and light-commercial outdoor installations. Combined with Smart IR to 40 m, image optimisation features and IP67-rated metal housing, it provides reliable day/night performance in most external settings.
For installers and end users with existing HD-over-coax DVRs who need better image quality and easier commissioning, this turret camera offers a sensible balance of capability, durability and price. As always, verify compatibility with your recording equipment, review supplier-provided footage, and confirm warranty and certification details before purchase to ensure it meets your exact needs.
