Introduction to the Hikvision 5 MP PoC Turret Camera (DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E)
Hikvision DS-2CE78H0T-IT3Eis a compact 5 MP HD analogue turret camera designed for reliable indoor and outdoor surveillance. Offering a 2.8 mm wide-angle lens, Smart EXIR infrared illumination and Power over Coaxial (PoC.af) support, this camera targets installers and integrators who want high-resolution imaging with simplified cabling on PoC-enabled DVR systems. With a suggested retail price around $44.99, it provides an affordable option for many commercial and residential deployments without sacrificing core performance.
Key features at a glance
- 5 MP resolution (2560 × 1944) for detailed images
- 2.8 mm fixed lens with approximately 85° horizontal field of view
- Smart EXIR IR illumination effective to about 40 m for low-light scenes
- Power options: PoC.af (Power over Coaxial) or 12 VDC; maximum power consumption ~3 W
- Durable metal body with plastic front cover and IP67 weather rating
- Compact turret design with adjustable pan/tilt/rotation for flexible aiming
Detailed specifications and practical benefits
The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E combines a 5 MP CMOS sensor with analogue HD output to deliver up to 2560 × 1944 resolution. That higher pixel count compared with older 2 MP or 4 MP analogue cameras means clearer identification of faces, license plates and fine scene detail when viewed on a compatible monitor or recorded on a DVR that supports 5 MP streams.
The fixed 2.8 mm M12 lens gives an approximately 85° horizontal field of view (H 85° / V 63° / D 110°). This wide coverage is useful for monitoring mid-sized rooms, retail aisles, entrances and certain perimeter sections without needing multiple cameras. Minimum illumination is rated at 0.01 Lux (F2.0, AGC ON) and 0 Lux with IR, giving usable colour images in low light and monochrome images when IR engages.
Hikvision’s Smart EXIR illumination improves IR uniformity and contrast compared with conventional IR LEDs. The DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E lists an effective IR range up to ~40 m, which makes it suitable for larger outdoor areas or long corridors where nighttime detail is required. Smart algorithms help avoid overexposure in close range and improve detail in the mid and far field.
On the video side, the camera supports multiple frame rate profiles to match DVR capabilities: 5 MP at 20 fps, 4 MP at 25/30 fps and 1080p at 25/30 fps. Built-in image processing features include DWDR (Digital Wide Dynamic Range), BLC (Backlight Compensation), HLC (Highlight Compensation), 2D DNR (noise reduction) and Smart IR. These functions help the camera perform consistently across high-contrast scenes and reduce noise in low-light conditions.
Power options make the camera flexible: use PoC.af to deliver power and video over a single coaxial cable from compatible DVRs, or supply 12 VDC where PoC is not available. Peak power consumption is low (around 3 W), which reduces load on power supplies and PoC budgets. The metal body with a plastic front cover and an IP67 ingress rating means it will withstand rain and dust for outdoor installs, and its operating temperature range (-40 °C to 60 °C) suits many climates.
The compact turret form factor (approximately 91.0 × Ø109.8 mm, ~326 g) allows unobtrusive mounting on ceilings or walls. The turret head provides pan/tilt/rotation adjustment so installers can precisely aim the lens without complicated brackets.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
Because of its combination of wide-angle optics, PoC support, robust IR and weatherproof housing, the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E fits several common surveillance scenarios:
- Retail and small shops: Wide field of view captures aisles, cash registers and storefront entrances. 5 MP detail helps identify persons and actions without installing many cameras.
- Offices and reception areas: Clean, compact appearance and wide FOV make it suitable for indoor areas where aesthetic and coverage matter.
- Residential properties and entryways: IP67 weatherproofing and Smart EXIR provide reliable day/night coverage for driveways, gardens and doors.
- Perimeter and parking lots (short to mid-range): IR reach to ~40 m covers parking rows and perimeter approaches in many small to medium sites.
- Budget-conscious upgrades: PoC support reduces cabling complexity and labour when upgrading analogue systems to higher resolution without re-running power lines.
How it compares with similar products
When evaluating the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E, it helps to compare by category: resolution, lens options, power features, form factor and price.
The jump to 5 MP increases image detail substantially, which improves recognition at a distance and reduces the number of cameras needed to cover the same area. Frame rate is lower at the top resolution (5 MP @ 20 fps) than some 1080p cameras, but for many surveillance tasks 20 fps is sufficient.
Turret cameras like this model sit between dome and bullet types: they are less obtrusive than many bullets and typically easier to aim than some domes because of the turret head articulation. Compared with bullet cameras, turrets often have a lower profile and can be quicker to install on ceilings. For long-range 1:1 person identification at extreme distances, purpose-built telephoto bullets may be preferable, but they cost more.
IP cameras typically offer advanced analytics, higher frame rates at high resolutions and more flexible networking options. However, analogue HD 5 MP turret cameras remain attractive for sites with existing coaxial infrastructure or for installers who prefer simple DVR-based systems. The PoC.af capability narrows the convenience gap by removing separate power runs when used with PoC-enabled DVRs.
Hikvision offers similar turret cameras in 3.6 mm lens variants and other resolution points. The 2.8 mm model gives a wider field of view than 3.6 mm SKUs, so choose based on whether you need broader coverage or more reach. If you need slightly higher frame rates at 4 MP, consider models tuned for 4 MP @ 25/30 fps, but accept the trade-off in peak resolution.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While no formal customer testimonials are provided here, common feedback themes from installers and end users for this category of camera include:
- "Easy to aim and mount": Installers appreciate the turret head and compact size for tight mounting spaces.
- "PoC saves time": Where compatible PoC DVRs are used, installers report fewer cables to run and faster installations.
- "Good daytime image detail": Users upgrading from 2 MP systems often note a marked improvement in daytime clarity and identification.
- "Adequate night range": For many small to medium sites, Smart EXIR to ~40 m is sufficient; very long-range applications still require specialised optics.
Potential drawbacks mentioned in similar camera reviews are predictable: top-resolution frame rate is 20 fps rather than 25/30 fps, and advanced analytics that depend on IP systems are not available on an analogue-only camera.
Installation, safety and compliance notes
Installations should be carried out by qualified personnel and follow local electrical and building regulations (for example, BS 7671 in the UK). Check the supplied product and packaging for CE/UKCA markings and consult the manufacturer’s datasheet for detailed certification and wiring instructions. If using PoC, confirm compatibility with your DVR to ensure safe power delivery over the coaxial link.
Conclusion: why choose the DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E?
The Hikvision DS-2CE78H0T-IT3E is a practical, cost-effective choice when you need a compact, wide-angle 5 MP analogue camera that performs well in day and night conditions. Its Smart EXIR illumination, IP67 weatherproofing and low power consumption (with PoC support) make it especially attractive for installers upgrading existing coaxial systems or deploying reliable coverage across retail, office and residential sites. While it won’t replace advanced IP solutions where advanced analytics and higher bitrates are required, it fills a valuable niche: high-resolution, simple-to-install surveillance with solid low-light performance at an accessible price point.
Quick specification summary:5 MP (2560 × 1944), 2.8 mm lens (≈85° H FOV), Smart EXIR to ~40 m, PoC.af or 12 VDC, IP67, compact turret form. Suggested retail price approx. $44.99.
