Hikvision DS-2CD2166G2-ISU(2.8MM)(C) 6MP AcuSense DarkFighter Dome Camera, 2.8 mm, PoE, IP67

Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-2CD2166G2-ISU(2.8MM)(C)

The Hikvision DS-2CD2166G2-ISU(2.8MM)(C) is a 6MP fixed-dome network camera designed for reliable outdoor surveillance. Part of Hikvisions EasyIP/AcuSense family, it combines DarkFighter low-light imaging, on-board IR, integrated audio, and deep-learning AcuSense analytics to deliver clearer images and smarter alerts. With rugged IP67 and IK10 ratings, Power over Ethernet (PoE) support, and on-board storage, this dome is aimed at small-to-medium commercial sites, parking lots, perimeter entrances and other outdoor monitoring applications.

Key features at a glance

• 6 MP (3200 × 1800) progressive-scan CMOS for high-resolution images
• DarkFighter low-light technology: colour imaging down to 0.003 Lux, and B/W with IR to 0 Lux
• AcuSense deep-learning analytics for human and vehicle classification, plus line crossing and intrusion detection
• Fixed 2.8 mm wide-angle lens (approx. 105 horizontal FOV) for broad scene coverage
• Built-in 850 nm IR with smart supplemental lighting to ~30 m for night monitoring
• PoE (802.3af) and optional 12 VDC power; low power draw (~7.5 W PoE)
• Rugged design: IP67 weatherproofing and IK10 vandal resistance
• On-board microSD support up to 512 GB and a built-in mono microphone

Detailed specifications and benefits

The 1/2.4" progressive-scan CMOS sensor produces a maximum resolution of 3200 1800 (6 MP), providing fine detail for identification and evidence capture. The fixed 2.8 mm, F1.6 lens offers a wide field of view (~105 horizontal), making the camera ideal for monitoring broad areas such as lot entrances, storefront fronts and building perimeters without the need for multiple cameras.

DarkFighter technology enhances low-light colour performance; the camera can capture usable colour images in very low illumination conditions (colour to 0.003 Lux). When light is insufficient, the built-in 850 nm IR illuminator and smart supplement light extend visibility to roughly 30 m, ensuring clear black-and-white imaging at night. This combination reduces the need for external lighting and helps maintain situational awareness around the clock.

AcuSense leverages deep-learning algorithms to classify detections into humans and vehicles, significantly cutting down false alarms caused by foliage, small animals or weather effects. On top of classification, it supports intelligent events such as line crossing, intrusion detection, motion and tamper alarms. These features help security teams prioritize meaningful alerts, reduce review time and integrate more effective automation.

Supporting H.265+/H.265 and H.264+/H.264 compression, the camera reduces bandwidth and storage requirements while preserving image quality. Multiple streams (main and sub) allow flexible viewing and recording configurations. With built-in microSD support up to 512 GB, local storage can be used for edge recording, redundancy or buffer recording when the network is interrupted.

A built-in mono microphone captures ambient sound for richer situational context. Audio codecs include G.711/G.722.1/G.726/MP3/AAC-LC. Network compatibility is broad: ONVIF Profiles S/G/T, ISAPI and Hikvisions own clients (Hik-Connect/iVMS) are supported. Security features such as HTTPS, 802.1X, TLS, IP filters and user privilege levels help protect both streams and device management from unauthorised access.

With an aluminium alloy body and plastic dome, the unit measures Ø121.4 92.2 mm and weighs approximately 440 g. IP67 ingress protection and IK10 vandal resistance mean the camera withstands rain, dust and vandal attempts, making it suitable for exposed outdoor mounting. PoE simplifies cabling by carrying data and power over a single Ethernet cable, reducing installation time and cost.

Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels

• Perimeter security and property entry points:The wide field of view and AcuSense classification make it effective for monitoring gates, fences and driveways, reducing false alarms from non-threatening motion.
• Car parks and vehicle access control:6 MP resolution captures license plates and vehicle details at medium ranges, while vehicle-specific analytics help trigger alarms or access control systems only when vehicles are present.
• Retail exteriors and small commercial sites:Nighttime colour capability and integrated IR provide useful evidence imaging after hours without costly external lighting.
• Campus and municipal monitoring:Rugged ratings and temperature range (-30 C to 60 C) suit a variety of outdoor climates and public-space installations.
• Remote, low-infrastructure locations:PoE plus edge storage on microSD cards makes the camera practical where network bandwidth or NVR access is intermittent.

How it compares with similar products

In its class of outdoor 6 MP dome cameras, the Hikvision DS-2CD2166G2-ISU balances price and features. Several comparison points are useful when evaluating alternatives:

Hikvisions DarkFighter competes with other manufacturers low-light technologies (often called "Starlight" or similar). DarkFighters emphasis on retaining colour at very low lux levels gives it an edge for users wanting colour detail at dusk and dawn without switching to IR. Some competitors may offer slightly better sensitivity at longer focal lengths, but for wide-angle outdoor domes the DS-2CD2166G2-ISU performs very well.

AcuSense human/vehicle classification is a major differentiator versus basic motion detection found on budget cameras. Competing brands have similar AI-driven classification engines; the differences come down to tuning, ease of management and integration with VMS/NVRs. Hikvisions ecosystem and supported protocols make integration straightforward in mixed environments.

IP67 and IK10 are standard ratings for outdoor domes at this price point. Some premium competitors may offer metal domes with higher corrosion resistance or longer temperature ranges, but for most commercial deployments the DS-2CD2166G2-ISUs build is more than adequate.

H.265+ support places the camera on par with modern devices that prioritize bandwidth efficiency. Older cameras limited to H.264 will consume significantly more storage and network resources for similar resolution and frame rates.

Customer feedback and representative impressions

No specific customer reviews were supplied with the product data. Below are representative comments based on typical experiences in deployments of similar Hikvision AcuSense/DarkFighter cameras. These are illustrative and not direct quotations from verified buyers.

• Positive:"Clear daytime and surprisingly useful colour at dusk. The human/vehicle filtering cut down on dozens of nuisance alerts each week, so reviewing footage is much faster."
• Positive:"PoE made installation simple and the on-board SD backup saved key footage when the NVR had a network drop."
• Constructive:"Fine-tuning the AcuSense thresholds took a few adjustments to avoid missing fast-moving objects at the scene edges. Expect to spend a short time on configuration."
• Practical note:"Double-check local regulations and procurement rules for this brand before purchasing, and confirm warranty/after-sales service options with your supplier."

Price and value proposition

At a suggested retail price in the mid-range for commercial dome cameras, the DS-2CD2166G2-ISU(2.8MM)(C) offers a compelling balance of high-resolution imaging, low-light performance and AI-driven analytics. For organizations that need reliable outdoor surveillance without premium enterprise costs, the combination of PoE simplicity, on-board storage and AcuSense intelligence represents strong value.

Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CD2166G2-ISU?

The Hikvision DS-2CD2166G2-ISU(2.8MM)(C) is a versatile and practical choice for outdoor security where high-resolution images, low-light colour capability and intelligent, low-false-alarm analytics matter. Its wide-angle 2.8 mm lens covers broad scenes, DarkFighter handles challenging lighting, and AcuSense helps security teams focus on human and vehicle threats rather than spurious motion. Rugged IP67/IK10 construction, PoE convenience and edge storage complete the package for many commercial, retail and perimeter-monitoring scenarios.

As with any security purchase, evaluate site-specific needs (scene distance, lighting, mounting angles and integration with your existing VMS/NVR), verify local compliance and warranty terms, and consider a test installation to tune analytics for optimal results. For many users, this Hikvision AcuSense dome delivers strong capability at an accessible price point.