Introduction: Meet the 4K AcuSense Turret Camera
The 4K AcuSense Turret Camera, 2.8 mm (model DS-2CD2386G2-ISU/SL) blends high-resolution imaging, advanced analytics and active deterrence into a compact outdoor turret form factor. Built around a 1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS sensor and Hikvision's DarkFighter technology, this 8 MP (3840 × 2160) camera aims to deliver clear, colour images in very low-light conditions while reducing false alarms through AcuSense human/vehicle classification. Additional features such as a built-in strobe, speaker for audible warnings, two-way audio and flexible recording options (microSD, NAS, ANR) make it suitable for perimeter, parking and small-site surveillance. With PoE support and an IP66 housing, it is designed for straightforward installation and reliable outdoor operation.
Key Features at a Glance
- 8 MP (4K) resolution for detailed coverage and evidence-grade images.
- DarkFighter low-light technology: colour imaging down to 0.003 Lux (F1.6).
- AcuSense human/vehicle classification to cut false alarms from irrelevant motion.
- Built-in active visual (strobe) and audible deterrence with two-way audio.
- 120 dB true WDR and efficient H.265(+)/H.264(+) compression to balance image quality and bandwidth.
- Flexible local and network storage: microSD up to 256 GB, NAS (NFS, SMB/CIFS), ANR.
- PoE (802.3af) or 12 VDC power options and rugged IP66 housing for outdoor use.
Detailed Description: Specifications and Benefits
This section breaks down the core specifications and explains the practical benefits for installers, integrators and end users.
- Sensor and resolution:1/1.8" progressive scan CMOS delivering 3840 × 2160 (8 MP). The 4K resolution enables wide coverage while retaining the ability to crop or digitally zoom for detail without losing clarity.
- Lens:Fixed 2.8 mm, F1.6 with an approximate horizontal field of view of 111°. The wide angle suits perimeter lines, driveways, entrances and shopfront monitoring where broad coverage is preferred.
- Low-light performance:DarkFighter enables colour imaging to as low as 0.003 Lux (F1.6, AGC on), with IR supplement to 30 m for true night coverage. That means better identification capability at dusk or under street lighting compared with cameras that switch to black-and-white at low light.
- Wide dynamic range:120 dB true WDR handles scenes with both bright and dark areas (for example, backlit entrances or vehicles with headlights).
- Compression:H.265/H.265+/H.264/H.264+ reduces bandwidth and storage needs while keeping image quality. H.265+ is especially effective in scenes with long periods of low motion.
- Smart analytics:AcuSense human/vehicle classification reduces false alarms caused by rain, foliage, or small animals and focuses alerts on relevant events. Built-in line crossing, intrusion and face capture functions expand automated detection capabilities for perimeter and access control applications.
- Visual alarm:Active strobe light provides immediate visual deterrence when configured events occur.
- Two-way audio:Integrated microphone and speaker allow announcements, live two-way conversations, or recorded warnings during an incident.
- Audio codecs and alarm terminals:Supports common audio codecs (G.711, G.722.1, G.726, MP3, AAC) and includes 1 alarm input / 1 alarm output, enabling external sensors and sirens where required.
- Deterrence:Configurable strobe and audible warnings give operators an active tool to deter intruders before involvement escalates.
- Local storage:microSD/SDHC/SDXC up to 256 GB with ANR (Automatic Network Replenishment) to prevent gaps when the network is temporarily unavailable.
- Network storage:NAS via NFS or SMB/CIFS is supported; ONVIF Profile S/G/T and Hikvision SDK/APIs offer integration into third-party VMS and NVR systems.
- Simultaneous streams:Up to six concurrent live view streams support multiple monitoring stations, mobile apps or recording profiles at different resolutions.
- Power:PoE (802.3af, Class 3) simplifies installation by combining power and data over a single cable. 12 VDC input is also supported. Typical power draw is approximately 9 W on 12 V and up to 10 W when using PoE.
- Housing:Turret form factor with IP66 ingress rating for dust and water resistance; robust for most outdoor exposures.
- Operating range:-30 °C to 60 °C, making it suitable for a wide variety of climates.
- Size & weight:Diameter ≈ 138.3 × 124.5 mm, weight roughly 800–840 g — compact and straightforward to mount under eaves or on walls.
Regulatory & warranty notes:Certification/regulatory data is region dependent. Confirm regional firmware and regulatory compliance and review warranty terms before sale or installation. Follow Hikvision installation guidance for cabling, mounting and network security best practices.
Use Cases: Where This Camera Excels
The combination of 4K resolution, excellent low-light colour performance, AcuSense analytics and active deterrence makes this turret camera particularly well suited to the following scenarios:
- Perimeter security:Large fences, compound perimeters and site boundaries benefit from 4K coverage that captures licence plates, clothing details and vehicle features at distance while analytics filter out nuisance alarms.
- Driveways and car parks:Wide field of view and two-way audio allow operators to monitor vehicle approaches, issue warnings or communicate with drivers; strobe and audible deterrence can discourage theft or vandalism in real time.
- Shopfronts and small business sites:High-resolution imaging captures clear evidence of theft or suspicious behaviour, and local storage options (microSD) provide redundancy if network recording is interrupted.
- Residential/SME installations:Contractors and capable DIY installers will appreciate PoE simplicity and the compact turret form that works well on soffits, walls and under awnings.
Comparisons: How It Stacks Up Against Alternatives
When evaluating this 4K AcuSense turret camera against similar products, consider several axes: analytics, low-light performance, active deterrence, form factor and price.
- AcuSense vs. basic motion detection:Cameras with only basic motion detection tend to produce many false alerts from animals, shadows or weather. AcuSense human/vehicle classification meaningfully reduces these false positives, saving operator time and lowering unnecessary recordings.
- DarkFighter vs. IR-only cameras:Many conventional cameras switch to monochrome IR at night; DarkFighter keeps colour imaging in very low light where street lamps or ambient lighting are present, improving recognition of colours and contextual details.
- Turret vs. bullet or dome:Turret cameras are less prone to glare from sunlight and easier to aim after installation, while dome cameras offer more discreet appearance. Bullets can provide longer-range optics but may be bulkier for some mounting positions. Select the form factor that best fits mounting location and aesthetics.
- Active deterrence:Built-in strobe and speaker provide immediate on-device deterrence that not all cameras include; some competitors require separate sirens or lights to match this capability.
- Price/value:With a suggested retail price of US$174.99, the camera offers an attractive mix of 4K imagery, analytics and deterrence compared with higher-priced enterprise models that may offer similar sensors but at greater cost or without integrated deterrence functionality.
Customer Feedback & Installer Notes
Formal customer testimonials for this exact model are not included here. However, installers and integrators typically look for the following practical attributes, many of which this camera addresses:
- Ease of installation via PoE and common mounting dimensions.
- Reliable low-light colour performance for sites that need identification after dark without relying solely on IR.
- Reduction in false alarms when AcuSense analytics are correctly tuned, leading to fewer unnecessary alerts and recordings.
- Value for money when comparing 4K resolution plus active deterrence against separate accessory costs.
When purchasing, request demo footage or trial periods from resellers if possible, and verify firmware and regional compliance. Integrators should also ensure correct network hardening (secure passwords, VLANs, regular firmware updates) when deploying cameras on business networks.
Conclusion: Why This Camera Is a Strong Choice
The 4K AcuSense Turret Camera (2.8 mm) is a pragmatic option for buyers who need high-resolution imaging, reliable low-light colour performance and built-in deterrence, all in a compact, weather-rated package. Its AcuSense analytics help reduce false alarms, making monitoring and post-event review more efficient. PoE support, flexible local and network storage options, and standards-based integration (ONVIF, Hikvision SDK) make it suitable for mixed-system environments and straightforward to install for professional installers and experienced DIY users alike.
For perimeter protection, parking areas, shopfronts and small sites where both detection quality and active deterrence matter, the DS-2CD2386G2-ISU/SL offers a balanced feature set at a competitive price point. As with any security deployment, verify regional compliance and warranty details, plan mounting and network configuration carefully, and test analytics and deterrence settings to match the specific use case for best results.
