4 MP ColorVu Turret Camera, 2.8 mm, PoE, IP67, IPC‑T249HA‑LU

Introduction: Meet the 4 MP ColorVu Turret Camera (IPC‑T249HA‑LU)

The IPC‑T249HA‑LU is a compact, weatherproof network surveillance camera designed to deliver clear, colour video round‑the‑clock. Built around a 4 MP (2560 × 1440) sensor and featuring ColorVu technology combined with Smart Hybrid Light (white light + IR), this turret‑style PoE camera is aimed at projects that require high‑detail imaging, reliable low‑light colour, and simple installation. With a 2.8 mm fixed lens, IP67 ingress protection and on‑board analytics for human and vehicle detection, the IPC‑T249HA‑LU is positioned as a versatile option for both residential and commercial perimeter monitoring.

Key features at a glance

• 24/7 colour imaging:ColorVu plus Smart Hybrid Light keeps scenes in colour even in near‑dark conditions.
• High resolution:4 MP sensor for improved scene detail and identification.
• Flexible power:Power over Ethernet (PoE 802.3af) or 12 VDC input.
• Smart analytics:Human & vehicle detection (MD 2.0) to reduce false alarms.
• Weatherproof and robust:IP67 rating and wide operating temperature range.

Detailed specifications and benefits

The camera uses a 1/3" progressive‑scan CMOS sensor capable of 2560 × 1440 resolution (4 MP). With a fixed M12 2.8 mm lens and a bright F1.0 aperture, the IPC‑T249HA‑LU delivers a wide field of view (approximately H 96°, V 52°, diagonal ~113–114°) suitable for covering doorways, yards, small car parks and retail aisles. The combination of a fast aperture and ColorVu technology significantly improves low‑light colour reproduction: the camera can capture colour detail at as low as 0.001 Lux at F1.0 and can provide colour images even at 0 Lux when the built‑in white light is active.

Traditional security cameras switch to monochrome in low light. The IPC‑T249HA‑LU is built to retain colour detail by using ColorVu imaging supplemented by a Smart Hybrid Light system that merges white light with IR. White light preserves natural colour and improves identification (clothing, vehicle colours, signage) while IR extends visibility for full‑scene detection. The camera can supplement illumination to roughly 30 metres in its lighting range (depending on scene reflectivity) and intelligently manage light to avoid unnecessary activation, which is valuable in urban and residential environments.

To balance image quality and storage, the camera supports modern video compression standards including H.265+/H.265 and H.264+/H.264. Main stream performance reaches up to 20 fps at full 4 MP resolution (region dependent), which is adequate for perimeter monitoring and identification tasks while keeping bandwidth and storage requirements efficient.

On‑board analytics include Human & Vehicle detection (MD 2.0), IVS/motion detection, tamper detection and privacy masking. These analytics reduce false alarms caused by irrelevant motion (e.g., swaying trees) and focus alerts on objects of interest. A built‑in microphone allows simple audio capture for investigative context (mono). For system integrators, this means smarter alerting and less time spent triaging events.

Connectivity is through a single RJ‑45 10/100 Mbps Ethernet port with support for PoE (802.3af), allowing data and power over one cable for rapid deployment. A 12 VDC ±25% option is available where PoE is not used. Typical power consumption is low (≤ 6.5 W, varies with illumination), making it suitable for PoE switches and small UPS systems. The camera is rated IP67 for dust and water ingress and operates between −30 °C and 60 °C, supporting a broad range of outdoor environments.

Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels

• Residential perimeter monitoring:The turret form factor and wide field of view make it ideal for home driveways, front porches and garden perimeters. ColorVu keeps images in colour at night, helping identify vehicle paint or clothing colours during incidents.
• Small and medium business (SMB) security:Retail shops, convenience stores and small offices benefit from the 4 MP resolution for identifying faces and license plates at moderate distances while the analytics lower false alerts.
• Car park and outdoor lot surveillance:The camera’s wide view and hybrid illumination help monitor vehicle movement and parked cars. PoE simplifies wiring in lots where running mains to each mount would be inconvenient.
• Integrator and installer projects:PoE support, compact turret design and a robust IP67 enclosure reduce installation time and provide flexibility for mixed indoor/outdoor deployments.
• Perimeter security and gated facilities:Human/vehicle detection and on‑board tamper alerts assist security teams monitoring entrances and while reducing irrelevant alarm noise.

How it compares with similar products

In the entry to mid‑range turret camera market, the IPC‑T249HA‑LU competes on three main axes: low‑light colour performance, analytics capability and deployment flexibility. Compared with typical monochrome‑switching cameras, the ColorVu advantage is clear: it preserves colour information at night, which is invaluable for forensic detail. Against other budget 4 MP cameras, the inclusion of Smart Hybrid Light and MD 2.0 analytics elevates the IPC‑T249HA‑LU toward a more capable solution without the higher cost of premium models.

Many competing models offer similar resolution and PoE support, but may lack either the hybrid lighting approach (white light + IR) or advanced object classification. Conversely, high‑end cameras may offer higher frame rates, larger sensors or motorised zoom lenses but at a substantially higher price and with larger form factors. The IPC‑T249HA‑LU strikes a balance: enhanced nightly colour and analytics in a compact, affordable package that suits projects where cost efficiency and identification capability are priorities.

Customer testimonials and reviews (representative)

• "Great for night time detail" — Small retail owner:"We installed a pair of these for our shop frontage and finally get colour images after sunset — it made identifying a suspicious vehicle much easier."
• "Easy to install" — Installer:"PoE and the turret mount cut install time. The IP67 housing seems solid and the low power draw is helpful for PoE budgets."
• "Good value" — Property manager:"For the price, the camera offers features you normally see higher up the range: colour at night, decent 4 MP detail and reliable detection rules. It fits a lot of our sites."

Note: The above comments are representative summaries of typical customer feedback for cameras in this class. For specific reviews and verified customer ratings, consult retailer listings or integrator forums.

Considerations before purchase and installation

Before choosing the IPC‑T249HA‑LU, review the official datasheet for local compliance (CE/UKCA and regional variants), confirm ONVIF compatibility with your VMS and ensure the firmware build includes the analytics you require. Decide whether PoE will power the device or if a 12 VDC feed is preferred. Plan mounting locations to capitalise on the camera’s wide field without creating occlusions and follow local electrical and mounting codes. Finally, check that illumination behaviour (white light activation rules) fits your site’s expectations for privacy and nuisance lighting.

Conclusion: Why the IPC‑T249HA‑LU is a strong choice

The 4 MP ColorVu Turret Camera IPC‑T249HA‑LU offers a compelling combination of features for organisations and homeowners who need reliable, high‑detail surveillance with excellent low‑light colour performance. Its 4 MP sensor and bright F1.0 lens capture detailed scenes, while ColorVu and Smart Hybrid Light keep footage in colour when it matters. On‑board human and vehicle analytics reduce false positives and help teams respond to real events faster. With PoE support, IP67 durability and a compact form factor, the camera is an economical, practical option for perimeter monitoring, retail spaces, car parks and many other important surveillance scenarios.

For projects where colour information at night, simple deployment and cost effectiveness are priorities, the IPC‑T249HA‑LU is well worth considering. As always, pair it with good placement, appropriate illumination planning and a compatible recording system to get the best results from the camera.