Introduction to the 3K ColorVu Turbo‑HD Turret Camera
The DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE 3K ColorVu Turbo‑HD turret camera is a purpose‑built analogue HD CCTV camera designed for round‑the‑clock colour imaging. With a 3K sensor (2960 × 1665), a bright F1.0 aperture and Smart‑Hybrid lighting that automatically selects between white light and IR, this turret delivers clear, usable footage in low‑light and no‑light conditions. It supports Power over Coax (PoC) or 12 VDC power, includes a built‑in microphone for audio over coax and is housed in a weatherproof IP67/NEMA 4X‑rated enclosure — features that make it well suited to retail, small commercial and residential projects where colour detail matters at all hours.
Key features at a glance
- 3K resolution (2960 × 1665)for improved identification and image clarity compared with standard 1080p analogue cameras.
- 24/7 colour imagingthanks to ColorVu technology and an F1.0 aperture that boosts light capture.
- Smart‑Hybrid lightingwith both white light and IR illumination (up to 40 m), automatically selected to suit scene conditions.
- Flexible power options— PoC compatible to simplify installation or 12 VDC for traditional wiring; low power draw (max 6.0 W).
- Built‑in microphoneenabling audio over coax for additional context to recorded events (pickup approx. 5 m).
- Rugged, weatherproof build— IP67 ingress protection and NEMA 4X anti‑corrosion for outdoor use.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE combines practical specifications with features designed to make everyday installations simpler and more effective. Below is a breakdown of the principal technical areas and the benefits they deliver in the field.
- Image sensor:3K CMOS (2960 × 1665). The higher pixel count compared with 2 MP models gives better spatial detail, which is useful for recognising faces, reading number plates at moderate distances and capturing signage.
- Minimum illumination:0.0005 Lux @ F1.0 (AGC ON); 0 Lux with white light. The bright F1.0 aperture significantly improves low‑light sensitivity so colour information is retained without relying solely on IR.
- Day/Night:ICR with auto/colour modes lets the camera switch between full‑colour and IR as scene lighting demands, while ColorVu aims to keep images colourful even at night when white light is active.
- WDR and noise reduction:True WDR ≥130 dB and 3D DNR help manage high contrast scenes and reduce motion/low‑light noise for cleaner evidence footage.
- Lens options:Fixed 2.8 mm (≈105° H FOV) or 3.6 mm (≈80° H FOV) with an M12 mount. The 2.8 mm is ideal for wide coverage of shop floors or entrances, while 3.6 mm narrows the view for longer reach.
- Aperture:F1.0 — the wide aperture is a core part of delivering usable colour at night and improving shutter speed/clarity in dim environments.
- Smart‑Hybrid lighting:The camera automatically switches between IR and white light. White light preserves natural colour in dark scenes (useful for identification), while IR provides covert illumination when required.
- Range:Up to 40 m for both IR and white light, making the camera useful for medium‑range perimeter coverage and car parks.
- Frame rates:3K @ 20/25 fps (TVI); also supports 4 MP/1080p options at 25/30 fps, depending on recorder compatibility.
- Output:Single HD analogue Turbo‑HD output for integration with compatible DVRs and hybrid recorders.
- Audio:Built‑in microphone enabling audio over coax. Pickup is approximately 5 m — sufficient for ambient sound and close speech capture to add context to video events.
- Power supply:12 VDC ±25% or PoC compatible. Power over Coax reduces the need for separate power runs, simplifying retrofit upgrades where running new cables is difficult.
- Power consumption:Max 6.0 W, a modest draw that keeps operating costs and heat generation low.
- Dimensions & weight:Ø110 × 102.7 mm, ≈395 g — compact turret form factor that is unobtrusive yet sturdy.
- Enclosure & protection:Metal/plastic construction, IP67 ingress protection and NEMA 4X anti‑corrosion rating for reliable outdoor operation in harsh environments.
- Operating temperature:−40 °C to 60 °C, suitable for a wide range of climates.
- Turret housing provides multi‑axis pan/tilt/rotate adjustment for flexible aiming.
- Check datasheet and product packaging for CE/UKCA markings and local compliance; install per local wiring and electrical safety regulations. Isolate power before working on the camera.
- Avoid pointing the white light directly at people at very close range to prevent discomfort or glare.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE is tailored to situations where retaining colour information at night improves security outcomes and reduces false positives. Typical scenarios include:
- Retail frontages and shop floors:Colour imaging helps identify clothing colours, customer features and product placement issues. The built‑in mic provides ambient audio context to support incident investigations.
- Small commercial sites:Offices, small warehouses and service yards benefit from medium‑range coverage and rugged weatherproofing for outdoor doors, loading areas and car parks.
- Residential perimeter monitoring:Driveways, gardens and entryways where continuous colour helps with recognition of visitors and vehicles and reduces false alarms from animals or moving shadows.
- Parking areas and access roads:Smart‑Hybrid lighting and 40 m illumination extend useful coverage after dark while preserving colour for better plate/vehicle description at moderate distances.
- Retrofit and hybrid systems:As an analogue HD (Turbo‑HD) camera with PoC support, it is a practical upgrade path for sites migrating from older analogue gear without running new network cabling.
How it compares with similar products
Within the market of analogue HD and hybrid security cameras, the DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE sits in a competitive position by combining 3K resolution with robust low‑light colour performance. Key comparison points:
- Versus 1080p analogue cameras:The 3K sensor offers noticeably more detail than 2 MP models, improving recognition and forensic value. Where higher resolution matters but full IP infrastructure is not desired, this model is a strong choice.
- Versus basic IR‑only cameras:The Smart‑Hybrid lighting and F1.0 aperture mean this camera can deliver colour images at night when white light is used — IR‑only models produce monochrome imagery in darkness, which can hinder identification.
- Versus IP ColorVu cameras:IP ColorVu models can offer similar or higher resolutions and more advanced features (analytics, PoE, ONVIF support), but require network cabling, PoE switches and often higher investment. The DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE is a cost‑effective analogue alternative for sites retaining coax infrastructure.
- Versus other turret designs:The compact turret shape and multi‑axis adjustment are comparable to other turret cameras, but the combination of 3K resolution, F1.0 aperture and Smart‑Hybrid lighting at this price point is a differentiator for installers focused on nighttime colour.
Customer feedback and typical reviewer impressions
Official customer testimonials for this specific model may vary by region and reseller. Based on common feedback themes for cameras with similar feature sets, purchasers often highlight:
- Positive:Excellent nighttime colour clarity compared with older IR‑only cameras; simple PoC installation that reduces cabling; solid build quality for outdoor placements; useful built‑in mic for event context.
- Constructive:Audio pickup is limited to short ranges (≈5 m), so separate microphones are recommended if detailed audio is required; true 3K frame rates are lower than some modern IP cameras, and integration requires a compatible Turbo‑HD recorder.
If you are evaluating the camera, look for hands‑on sample footage from the vendor and ask resellers for demonstration clips shot in similar lighting conditions to your site — that’s the best way to assess real‑world performance.
Conclusion: why the DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE is a great choice
The 3K ColorVu Turbo‑HD turret camera DS-2CE72KF3T-LSYE offers a compelling mix of higher‑resolution analogue imaging, exceptional low‑light colour performance and flexible installation options. Its Smart‑Hybrid lighting and bright F1.0 aperture help retain colour detail at night — a practical advantage for retail, small commercial and residential applications where identification and clear footage matter. PoC compatibility simplifies upgrades on existing coax infrastructures, while robust IP67/NEMA 4X protection ensures reliable outdoor operation.
For customers seeking improved image clarity over 1080p analogue cameras without moving to a fully IP‑based system, this model balances performance, ease of installation and value. Verify compatibility with your recorder, review manufacturer datasheets for wiring and compliance details, and consider site‑specific needs such as audio range and illumination policy to get the best results from the camera.
