Introduction to the Hikvision DS-KD-K12 Nametag Module and its key features
Hikvision DS-KD-K12 Nametag (Name-plate) Moduleis a compact, robust expansion module designed for KD8-series door stations. With 12 backlit, physical buttons, the DS-KD-K12 provides one-touch calling for multi-tenant door panels and gated entries. Engineered to work with Hikvision KD8 main modules (for example DS-KD8003/DS-KD8003Y), the unit combines a weather-resistant IP65 rating with minimal power consumption (≤ 2 W) and a small footprint for flexible mounting.
Key features at a glance:
- 12 backlit physical nametag/call buttons for one-touch calling.
- RS-485 interface for reliable communications with KD8 main modules.
- IP65 ingress protection suitable for outdoor mounting.
- Very low power consumption (≤ 2 W), reducing load on door station power supplies.
- Compact dimensions and support for flush or surface mounting within KD8 frames.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The DS-KD-K12 packs practical hardware into a compact module. Below are the key technical specifications and the benefits they bring to installation projects and everyday use.
- Model: DS-KD-K12
- Function: Nametag / 12-button call module
- Buttons: 12 backlit physical buttons
- Interface: RS-485 (1)
- Power consumption: ≤ 2 W
- Protection rating: IP65
- Operating temperature: -30 °C to 55 °C
- Operating humidity: 10% to 90% (non-condensing)
- Net weight: ≈ 179 g
- Gross weight: ≈ 336.4 g
- Dimensions (W×H×D): 98.2 × 100.2 × 33.7 mm
- Installation: Flush or surface mounting; use with KD8 frames/housings
- Compatible with: Hikvision KD8-series main modules (e.g., DS-KD8003/DS-KD8003Y)
- Datasheet: Refer to the Hikvision DS-KD-K12 official datasheet for installation diagrams and electrical details
- One-touch calling: Physical buttons make it quick and intuitive for visitors to reach the correct apartment, suite or office without navigating menus or using directories.
- Good outdoor resilience: IP65 rating helps protect against rain and dust when installed in external panels—important for apartment lobbies, low-height panels and driveway posts.
- Energy efficiency: With power draw of ≤ 2 W, the module adds capacity without heavily increasing the system’s power budget—helpful when several modules are stacked on a single door station frame.
- Flexible mounting: The compact footprint and compatibility with KD8 frames let installers stack or mix modules (camera, keypad, nametag modules) to create tailored panels for each installation.
- Simple communications: RS-485 is a long-proven, robust signaling method for module-to-main-frame communications in door entry systems, making wiring straightforward for technicians familiar with KD8-series installations.
Use cases and scenarios where the DS-KD-K12 excels
The DS-KD-K12 is designed for real-world entry applications where clear, durable, and human-friendly access panels are needed. Typical scenarios include:
Small to medium apartment buildings and walk-up blocks commonly use modular door panels. The 12-button DS-KD-K12 is an ideal expansion option when the existing KD8 door station needs additional direct-dial buttons for tenants. Backlit buttons ensure visibility at night and in low light lobbies.
Office centers with a handful of tenants can use the DS-KD-K12 to create a clean, easy-to-use entry panel that routes visitors directly to reception or specific units. The minimal power draw and compact size make it easy to integrate into a multi-module layout.
For gated entries requiring one-touch calling to a household or guard station, the DS-KD-K12 offers weather resistance and durable mechanical buttons that stand up to frequent outdoor use. Its operating temperature range covers most climates encountered in urban and suburban deployments.
When upgrading older intercom panels, the module can be added to existing KD8-series frames to increase button count without replacing the entire door station, saving on labour and hardware costs.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating the DS-KD-K12 against other nametag or call-button modules, several factors help decide which product best fits a project: button count, ingress protection, interface type, power draw, physical size, and system compatibility.
- Modularity: The KD8 ecosystem from Hikvision is designed around interchangeable modules. The DS-KD-K12 integrates smoothly with other KD8 modules, which simplifies procurement and site planning for installers already using Hikvision panels.
- IP65 rating: Some cheaper nametag modules may lack robust weatherproofing, making the DS-KD-K12 preferable for exposed outdoor installations.
- Low power draw: With ≤ 2 W consumption, it compares favorably to larger modules or full-door stations that draw more power, reducing the need for upgraded power supplies when expanding panel capacity.
- Interface: The DS-KD-K12 uses RS-485 to communicate with KD8 main modules. Some competing modules or modern IP-native panels use Ethernet/PoE for each module, offering centralized network management but possibly increasing complexity and cost—especially in retrofit scenarios where RS-485 is already deployed.
- Button count and customization: Other vendors may offer modules with variable button counts or touchscreen directories. The DS-KD-K12 is a physical-button module focused on simplicity and durability rather than dynamic directories.
- Integrated camera or audio features: Some competitors provide modules combining nametags with camera lenses or integrated intercoms. The DS-KD-K12 is a focused nametag module intended to be paired with KD8 main modules that handle audio/video functions.
Overall, the DS-KD-K12’s strengths are its weather resistance, low power draw, clean physical design and direct compatibility with KD8-series systems—making it a strong choice where modularity and durability matter.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
Official customer reviews for individual modules like the DS-KD-K12 are often aggregated at distributor or reseller sites. If you don’t find dedicated reviews for the module itself, look for installer or system integrator comments about KD8-series panel builds. Below are representative, anonymized examples of installer feedback based on typical on-site experience:
- Installer A (multi-family housing):"We added the DS-KD-K12 modules to several walk-up buildings. The buttons are bright and durable, and wiring into our KD8 frames was straightforward. The low power draw helped avoid PSU changes."
- Security integrator B:"For exterior panels the IP65 rating is a must. These modules hold up well in coastal and rainy projects. We like that they stack neatly with other KD8 modules for a clean final look."
- Property manager C:"Residents appreciate the one-touch call buttons. It’s simple for visitors and reduces call failures that happen with digital directories."
Note: The quotes above are illustrative and capture the kinds of practical benefits installers and users report when deploying physical nametag modules in KD8-series builds. For official customer testimonies, check reseller listings or installer forums where Hikvision system projects are discussed.
Conclusion: why the DS-KD-K12 is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-KD-K12 Nametag Module is a focused, practical accessory for KD8-series door stations. Its 12 backlit physical buttons, RS-485 interface, IP65 protection and very low power consumption make it especially well-suited to multi-tenant residential buildings, small commercial suites and retrofit projects where reliability and straightforward operation matter most.
At a suggested retail price of around $69.99, the module offers a cost-effective way to expand an intercom panel without replacing the entire station. Installers benefit from its compact footprint and compatibility with KD8 frames, while end users get a familiar, simple calling experience that reduces visitor confusion.
If your project requires a modular, durable and energy-efficient nametag module for outdoor or semi-exposed entry panels, the DS-KD-K12 is worth considering. For best results, pair it with KD8-series main modules, follow Hikvision’s installation guidelines, and confirm local regulatory and compliance requirements (CE/UKCA or regional standards) with your supplier before sale or installation.
