DS-2CD2546G2-IS 4MP AcuSense Mini Dome (4 mm), DarkFighter, IP67, PoE

Introduction: Meet the DS-2CD2546G2-IS 4MP AcuSense Mini Dome

The DS-2CD2546G2-IS is a compact, feature-rich network camera designed for reliable outdoor and indoor surveillance. Combining HikvisionsAcuSensedeep-learning analytics withDarkFighterlow-light imaging, this 4 MP mini dome delivers clear 2688  1520 video at up to 30 fps, accurate human/vehicle filtering, and robust weather and vandal protection. With PoE support, H.265 compression and on-board microSD storage, its a flexible choice for retail, entrances, perimeters and general-purpose surveillance projects.

Key features at a glance

• Resolution:4 MP (2688  1520) up to 30 fps
• Low-light performance:DarkFighter sensor (Colour 0.003 lux @ F1.4; B/W 0 lux with IR)
• AcuSense analytics:Deep-learning based human and vehicle classification to reduce false alarms
• Lens & IR:Fixed 4 mm F1.4 with ~82.8 horizontal field of view; smart IR up to 30 m
• Durability:IP67 ingress protection and IK08 vandal resistance
• Networking:PoE (802.3af) or 12 V DC, H.265/H.265+/H.264 compression, ONVIF support
• On-board storage:microSD up to 512 GB (ANR) and NAS support

Detailed specifications and benefits

The camera uses a 1/3" progressive-scan CMOS sensor tuned to deliver a 4 MP image at 30 fps. The fixed 4 mm F1.4 lens provides an approximately 82.8 horizontal field of view a sweet spot for many entrance and perimeter applications where a balance between coverage and detail is needed. Its DarkFighter technology offers excellent colour performance in very low light (colour sensitivity down to 0.003 lux) and seamless switching to B/W with IR illumination for true zero-light scenes.

Benefit: clearer, usable colour images at dusk and in poorly lit areas mean better identification and fewer missed events without needing powerful external lighting.

Smart IR extends effective night coverage to about 30 metres (850 nm) while adaptive exposure controls help avoid overexposed near-field objects. The camera also offers 120 dB True WDR, BLC/HLC, 3D DNR and a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR  52 dB) to preserve detail in mixed-light scenes.

Benefit: balanced images in scenes with both bright and dark areas, and reduced noise at higher gains for cleaner forensic footage.

AcuSense brings deep-learning based human and vehicle classification directly to the camera. Instead of triggering on every moving object, the system filters alarms to focus on human and vehicle targets, minimising false alerts caused by animals, weather, or foliage. Supported smart events include line crossing, intrusion, region entrance/exit and tamper detection.

Benefit: fewer nuisance alarms, lower review time for security personnel and more actionable alerts for rapid response.

With H.265/H.265+ and H.264/H.264+ support, the DS-2CD2546G2-IS reduces bandwidth and storage requirements without compromising quality. Multiple streams allow simultaneous recording at different resolutions for analytics, live viewing and remote access. On-board microSD (up to 512 GB) and ANR, plus NAS support, offer flexible storage topologies.

Benefit: lower long-term storage costs and smoother remote viewing even on constrained networks.

IP67 and IK08 ratings mean the dome stands up to dust, rain and moderate impact. PoE (IEEE 802.3af) simplifies power and data cabling, while the -IS variant adds a built-in microphone and audio/alarm I/O for two-way audio or external sensors and sirens. The compact form factor (Ø110  57.4 mm) and ~380 g weight make installation quick and unobtrusive.

Benefit: robust outdoor readiness with simplified wired installation and added audio/alarm integration when needed.

Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels

• Retail entrances and storefronts:The wide 4 mm field of view covers entryways and nearby sidewalks while AcuSense reduces alarms from non-human triggers such as swaying signs or shopping trolleys.
• Small- to mid-sized parking areas and driveways:DarkFighter plus 30 m IR provides round-the-clock coverage and makes vehicle detection and plate-level detail easier in many lighting conditions.
• Perimeter monitoring for offices and warehouses:Line crossing and intrusion rules backed by human/vehicle filtering make perimeter alerts more actionable and reduce false positives.
• Multi-site rollouts:PoE and H.265 compression lower installation and bandwidth costs, while on-board storage offers resilience during network outages.
• Entrances where audio is useful:The -IS variants microphone and audio I/O let staff confirm deliveries or deter unwanted behaviour with real-time voice communication.

Comparison with similar cameras on the market

In the 4 MP mini dome category, buyers commonly compare this model with other branded AcuSense or deep-learning cameras and similarly specd dark-light optimized units. Key differentiators for the DS-2CD2546G2-IS include its combination of DarkFighter imaging and on-device AcuSense analytics, plus IP67/IK08 durability in a compact form.

Many budget 4 MP domes offer similar resolution and PoE but lack advanced classification. Those models tend to generate more false alarms and require more human review. The DS-2CD2546G2-IS offsets its typically higher price by reducing monitoring overhead and improving actionable alerting.

Competing deep-learning cameras from other manufacturers may match AcuSenses human/vehicle filtering, but details differ: some offer wider-angle lenses, others add integrated analytics ecosystems or edge AI for advanced behaviours. The DS-2CD2546G2-IS is strong where low-light performance and a compact, vandal-resistant dome are priorities. Its H.265+ implementation and ONVIF support also help it integrate into many existing VMS deployments.

At a suggested retail price of around  219 (cost price example:  112.88), the camera sits in the competitive mid-range: more expensive than basic fixed domes but more affordable than high-end multi-sensor or PTZ systems. For organisations valuing reduced false alarms and strong low-light imaging, the total cost of ownership can be lower due to savings in storage, bandwidth and manpower.

Customer feedback and reviews

Public reviews and installer feedback for cameras in this class generally highlight the following recurring points:

• Positive:Clear low-light colour images, reliable human/vehicle filtering that significantly reduces nuisance alerts, straightforward PoE installation, and solid build quality for exposed locations.
• Constructive:Some integrators note that firmware updates and correct AcuSense configuration are important to achieve optimal filtering; others recommend validating field-of-view and IR range on-site before finalising mounting locations.
• Note:Warranty and support terms vary by reseller and region. This SKU lists a warranty value of 0 in the provided data; buyers should confirm warranty, local certifications and after-sales support with their supplier before purchase.

Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CD2546G2-IS?

The DS-2CD2546G2-IS 4 MP AcuSense mini dome is a balanced, practical surveillance camera for sites that need dependable low-light imaging, meaningful event filtering and a compact, weatherproof package. Its main strengths  DarkFighter imaging, on-device AcuSense human/vehicle classification, PoE convenience and robust IP67/IK08 rating  make it especially suited to entrances, perimeters, retail storefronts and small parking areas where false alarms and poor night performance are common pain points.

For integrators and end users looking to reduce alarm fatigue, lower storage and bandwidth costs with H.265+, and deploy a discreet yet rugged dome, the DS-2CD2546G2-IS is a smart mid-range choice. As always, validate the exact SKU (lens, -IS audio/I-O, regional certifications), keep firmware up to date and work with qualified installers to get the best results from your deployment.