Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CE12KF3T-LE
The Hikvision DS-2CE12KF3T-LE is a 3K ColorVu dual‑light PoC fixed bullet camera engineered for reliable 24/7 outdoor surveillance. Combining a high‑resolution 3K CMOS sensor with an F1.0 aperture and hybrid illumination (infrared plus white light), this camera is designed to capture colour detail in extremely low light while offering supplemental illumination up to 40 m. It supports Power over Coax (PoC) for simplified retrofits and comes in an IP67 metal housing suitable for demanding outdoor installations.
- 3K resolution (2960 × 1665)for sharper detail than standard 1080p analogue cameras.
- ColorVu technology + F1.0 aperturefor full‑colour images in very low light.
- Dual‑light hybrid illumination(IR + white light) effective up to 40 m.
- Power over Coax (PoC)support to reduce cabling complexity during upgrades from analogue DVRs.
- Rugged outdoor buildwith metal housing and IP67 ingress protection for long‑term reliability.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the camera's specifications helps translate technical numbers into practical benefits for real‑world installations.
- Image sensor and resolution:The 3K CMOS sensor provides a maximum resolution of 2960 × 1665. Compared with 1080p analogue cameras, the extra pixels give clearer licence plates, faces and fine scene details at typical surveillance distances.
- Lens and field of view:The fixed 2.8 mm lens gives a horizontal field of view of about 100°, vertical 54° and diagonal 119°. This wide angle is ideal for driveways, entrances and perimeter coverage where a broad scene is required.
- Aperture and low‑light sensitivity:The F1.0 aperture and ColorVu technology mean the camera can capture full‑colour images in extremely low ambient light (minimum illumination 0.0005 Lux with AGC). When necessary, the integrated white light provides 0 Lux colour capture.
- Dynamic range and noise control:True WDR ≥130 dB and 3D/2D DNR help the camera manage scenes with bright highlights and deep shadows — for example, a sunlit storefront with dark recessed doorways.
- Dual‑light system:Hybrid IR plus white light lets the camera automatically select the best illumination method. IR preserves monochrome night detail without visible light, while the white light brings back colour when identifying coloured clothing, vehicles or signage is important.
- Range:Both IR and white light reach up to 40 m in suitable conditions, providing flexible coverage for medium to long‑range outdoor scenes.
- PoC support (Power over Coax):PoC simplifies upgrades and installations by delivering power and HD analogue video over existing coaxial cable. For retrofits from older analogue systems, this can remove the need to run separate power lines and reduce labour time.
- Power consumption:Rated at 12 VDC ±25%, 0.65 A (max 7.8 W), the camera is efficient enough for typical CCTV power supplies while still providing strong illumination when the white light is active.
- Durability:Metal housing, IP67 ingress protection and a wide operating temperature range (–40 °C to 60 °C) make this camera suitable for exposed outdoor locations year‑round.
- Dimensions and weight:Compact bullet form factor (approx. 194.2 × 78 × 74.5 mm, ~570 g) that mounts easily to walls or soffits.
- Video output and frame rates:Single HD analogue output with frame‑rate options: 3K @ 20 fps, 4 MP @ 25/30 fps and 1080p @ 25/30 fps — sufficient for most security applications that prioritise resolution over ultra‑high frame rates.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CE12KF3T-LE is well suited to situations where continuous, colour‑accurate imagery is important, and where installers want the simplicity of analogue cabling with modern imaging performance.
Homeowners who need to identify visitors, vehicles and distinguishing colours at night will benefit from ColorVu with the F1.0 aperture. A single 2.8 mm camera can cover a driveway or front yard with a wide field of view, and the white light can be set to illuminate only when motion is detected to reduce nuisance lighting.
Small shops, cafés and local business units often need improved night‑time evidence (e.g., identifying suspects or vehicle descriptions) without replacing an entire analogue system. PoC makes retrofitting straightforward, while the 3K resolution helps capture more actionable detail across counters, entrances and exterior facades.
For perimeter security — fences, gates and entry lanes — the 40 m illumination range combined with robust housing and wide operating temperatures makes this a reliable option. The dual illumination allows operators to balance discreet IR surveillance with on‑demand white light for identification.
Installers will appreciate the PoC feature for fast upgrades and cleaner installs, plus the metal housing for secure mounting. The camera’s wide FOV and 3K resolution reduce the number of cameras needed to cover the same area compared with 1080p devices.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When choosing surveillance cameras, buyers often weigh analogue HD options like this Hikvision model against traditional 1080p analogue cameras and modern IP/PoE systems. Here are the main points of comparison:
- Resolution advantage:The 3K sensor provides noticeably more detail than 1080p, improving the ability to read licence plates and recognise faces at a distance.
- Low‑light capability:ColorVu with an F1.0 aperture captures colour in scenes where 1080p IR cameras would produce monochrome images.
- Cost and retrofit:While slightly higher in price than basic 1080p analogue cameras, the DS-2CE12KF3T-LE offers value via better evidence capture and easier upgrades using existing coax cabling.
- Installation trade‑offs:IP PoE cameras offer network flexibility and advanced analytics, but require network infrastructure and PoE switches. PoC analogue cameras reduce network complexity and can be faster/cheaper in retrofit scenarios.
- Image control and analytics:IP cameras sometimes have more sophisticated on‑camera analytics or higher frame rates. If deep VMS integration, advanced analytics or centralized network management is required, IP may be preferable. For straightforward high‑resolution monitoring over existing coax, the Hikvision PoC camera is often the better fit.
Hikvision’s ColorVu lineup includes both analogue and IP variants. Compared with higher‑end ColorVu IP models, the DS-2CE12KF3T-LE is positioned as a cost‑effective, easy‑to‑install analogue option that brings many of the same low‑light benefits without the need to migrate to a network camera architecture.
Customer feedback and reviews
Specific named customer testimonials for this exact model are not provided here. However, common themes that installers and end users report for ColorVu and PoC models like this one include:
- Positive:Noticeable improvement in night‑time colour detail compared with IR‑only analogue cameras; simpler upgrades using existing coax; robust outdoor performance.
- Practical notes:Installers often recommend verifying DVR/NVR PoC compatibility and ensuring weatherproof sealing on cable entries. Some users comment that white light illumination should be configured thoughtfully to avoid nuisance lighting.
- Value perception:Many buyers see 3K capability and ColorVu low‑light performance as strong value relative to higher‑cost IP systems when a simple, reliable analogue solution is desired.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CE12KF3T-LE is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CE12KF3T-LE combines high‑resolution 3K imaging, exceptional low‑light colour performance and flexible dual‑light illumination in a compact, weatherproof bullet housing. For homeowners, small businesses and installers seeking improved night‑time evidence without a full migration to IP cameras, this model offers a compelling balance of performance, ease of installation and cost effectiveness. PoC support reduces cabling complexity for retrofits, the 2.8 mm wide lens covers broad scenes with fewer cameras, and the metal IP67 housing helps ensure long service life in outdoor environments.
Before purchase and installation, confirm PoC compatibility with your existing DVR/NVR and check the product packaging or datasheet for warranty and certification details. With careful installation and configuration, the DS-2CE12KF3T-LE delivers clear, actionable imagery day and night — making it a practical, high‑value option for a wide range of outdoor surveillance needs.
