Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-1105KI(B) — compact power for control rooms
The Hikvision DS-1105KI(B) Network Keyboard Controller is a purpose-built, compact control surface designed for CCTV control rooms and security operation centres. Combining a 7" capacitive touchscreen with tactile buttons and a 4‑direction joystick, it brings rapid PTZ control, video‑wall navigation and local preview capabilities into a small, desk‑friendly package. With HDMI and VGA outputs, USB export and support for up to 4 × 1080p preview on the local screen, this device is aimed at integrators, installers and security teams who need a reliable, tactile interface for day‑to‑day monitoring.
Key features at a glance
- 7" capacitive touchscreen(1024 × 600) for live preview, navigation and quick configuration.
- 4D single‑button joystickfor fast PTZ positioning and video‑wall control.
- Local preview up to 4×1080pon the built‑in screen with support for remote playback, snapshots and clip export via USB/FTP.
- Flexible connectivityincluding RJ45 10/100/1000 Mbps, RS‑232/RS‑485 for legacy devices, HDMI and VGA outputs and USB 2.0 for storage.
- Scalable management— integrates with HikCentral/KPS, supports up to 4,000 devices and up to 32 user accounts.
Detailed specifications and their practical benefits
The DS-1105KI(B) features a 7" capacitive touchscreen with a 1024 × 600 resolution. The screen provides a compact but clear local preview area and pairs with optical/mechanical buttons for quick operations. The device decodes and previews up to four 1080p streams simultaneously on the touchscreen — useful for focusing on key cameras without tying up larger operator monitors. For busy control rooms, being able to preview high‑resolution streams directly on the controller speeds up incident assessment and PTZ reacquisition.
At the heart of the controller is a 4D single‑button joystick designed for responsive pan, tilt and zoom control. The joystick combined with programmable buttons and the touchscreen gives operators both precision and speed: precise joystick movements for live PTZ tracking and touchscreen menus for quick preset selection, pattern recall or video‑wall commands. This hybrid approach suits operators who need the tactile feedback of physical controls alongside the flexibility of on‑screen menus.
Network connectivity is via RJ45 10/100/1000 Mbps (self‑adaptive), ensuring smooth communication with modern IP infrastructure. The controller supports a broad range of Hikvision devices — DVRs, NVRs, decoders, cameras, speed domes and MVCs — and integrates into HikCentral and KPS platforms. For multi‑site deployments, the DS-1105KI(B) can manage up to 4,000 devices and 32 user accounts, making it suitable for medium‑sized security operations that need centralised control without the footprint of a full console.
Video outputs include HDMI and VGA, allowing the controller to feed an external operator monitor or video wall. A USB 2.0 port is provided for snapshot and clip export (to USB storage) and for service tasks. The unit also has RS‑232 and RS‑485 serial ports for legacy integrations and a MIC IN (one‑way, 48 V phantom supported) plus 3.5 mm audio out for audio monitoring or announcements.
The unit runs from a 12 V DC supply with a power consumption of ≤15 W, keeping energy costs low and enabling flexible placement. Physically it is compact (435 × 193 × 110 mm) and lightweight (gross ≈ 2 kg). Designed for typical indoor control‑room conditions, the operating temperature range is -10 °C to +55 °C and humidity tolerance is 10%–90% RH.
Use cases and scenarios where the DS-1105KI(B) excels
- Small to medium control rooms:For sites that need an ergonomic control surface but don’t require a full console, this compact keyboard adds PTZ speed and preview capability without taking up much desk space.
- Distributed operation centres:When managing multiple remote sites, the controller’s network compatibility and HikCentral integration enable centralised control of many devices while offering local preview for critical camera feeds.
- Retail and branch monitoring:Branch or store managers who require local control and quick access to camera presets will appreciate the tactile joystick and touchscreen combo for everyday tasks.
- Temporary or mobile operations:The small footprint makes it suitable for temporary command posts or vehicles where space and power are limited.
- System integrator deployments:Installers and integrators can use the controller when delivering multi‑camera solutions that require a physical control interface alongside NVR/DVR hardware and video decoders.
How it stacks up against similar controllers
There are several product classes the DS-1105KI(B) can be compared with: larger multi‑screen keyboards, joystick-only controllers and software‑based control systems.
Larger controllers often include bigger screens, more programmable keys and multi‑monitor outputs for full console setups. The DS-1105KI(B) trades that expanded capability for a compact form factor. If you need a dedicated console that supports dozens of preset buttons and multiple integrated displays, a larger model will be more suitable. For teams who prioritise a small footprint or need a supplemental controller at individual operator stations, the DS-1105KI(B) provides most essential functions with less desk space and cost.
Joystick‑only controllers are excellent for precision PTZ control but lack onboard preview and menu navigation. The DS-1105KI(B) combines a joystick with a touchscreen and buttons, making it more versatile: you can pan/tilt with the joystick and instantly confirm what you’re seeing on the local screen or export clips via USB without leaving the controller.
PC‑based control software offers rich feature sets and can run on existing workstations, but it depends on the stability and security of the workstation environment. The DS-1105KI(B) is a dedicated hardware controller with a Linux‑based system, reducing the attack surface and avoiding accidental desktop interference. For mission‑critical monitoring where reliability and a dedicated control surface matter, a hardware controller remains the preferred choice.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual reviews vary by deployment and expectations, common feedback themes from installers and operators include:
- Positive:The tactile joystick and touchscreen combination is frequently praised for balancing speed and precision. Installers often note that HDMI/VGA outputs and serial ports make integration into mixed environments straightforward.
- Practical:Many integrators appreciate the unit’s compact size — it’s easy to add into existing operator stations without reconfiguring desks or cabling dramatically.
- Considerations:For very large control‑room deployments that require extensive multi‑monitor setups or very high user counts, larger or additional controllers may be necessary. Prospective buyers should confirm local certifications and warranty terms with their reseller.
Price positioning and purchase notes
As supplied, the suggested price sits at approximately 694.29 (currency as per your market) with a cost price of 583.20. That positions the DS-1105KI(B) in the mid‑range for dedicated network controllers — more capable and feature‑rich than basic joystick dongles or software‑only options, yet more compact and cost‑efficient than full console solutions. Warranty details are not specified here; consult your supplier for local warranty, certifications (CE/UKCA or local approvals) and any installation support.
Conclusion: Why choose the Hikvision DS-1105KI(B)?
The Hikvision DS-1105KI(B) is a solid choice for organisations that need a reliable, compact and responsive control surface for surveillance operations. Its 7" touchscreen, combined with a 4D joystick and physical buttons, provides fast PTZ control and convenient local preview of up to 4×1080p — ideal for small to medium control rooms, branch monitoring and integrator projects where space and budget are considerations. With modern network connectivity, legacy serial support and integration into HikCentral/KPS ecosystems, it delivers the flexibility and scalability expected in professional CCTV environments. For buyers seeking a dedicated hardware controller that balances capability, footprint and cost, the DS-1105KI(B) is worth evaluating as part of your next CCTV control‑room deployment.
