Introduction to the DS-2CD2546G2-IS(2.8mm)(C) 4MP AcuSense Mini Dome
The DS-2CD2546G2-IS(2.8mm)(C) is a compact, weatherproof IP CCTV camera designed for reliable everyday security. Built around a 4 MP sensor and Hikvisions AcuSense deep-learning analytics, this fixed mini dome combines clear imaging, intelligent event filtering and rugged physical protection into a small form factor suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. Key highlights include 4 MP resolution, DarkFighter low-light performance, human/vehicle classification, PoE and 12 VDC power options, on-board microSD storage up to 512 GB and IP67/IK08 ingress and impact resistance.
Key features at a glance
- 4 MP imaging:2688 C3 97 1520 resolution for sharp detail and useful digital zooming.
- AcuSense analytics:Deep-learning human/vehicle classification and face capture that reduce false alarms.
- Low-light capability:DarkFighter technology, 3D DNR and up to 30 m smart IR for night scenes.
- Flexible power & storage:PoE (802.3af, Class 3) or 12 VDC and microSD support to 512 GB.
- Durable build:IP67 weatherproof and IK08 vandal resistance for outdoor deployment.
- Efficient encoding:H.265/H.264 and Hikvisions enhanced H.265+/H.264+ to reduce bandwidth and storage needs.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
- Sensor:1/3" progressive scan CMOS delivering 4 MP (2688C3A7 1520). Benefit: a higher pixel count provides clearer identification of faces, license plates and scene detail than 2 MP alternatives.
- Frame rate:Up to 25 fps (50 Hz) or 30 fps (60 Hz) on the main stream. Benefit: smooth motion rendering suitable for most security applications.
- 120 dB WDR and 3D DNR:Wide dynamic range helps balance bright and dark areas in high-contrast scenes (for example, entrances where sunlight and shadows coexist). 3D noise reduction improves low-light clarity while reducing bandwidth.
- Lens:Fixed 2.8 mm, F1.4 lens with a horizontal field of view of ~102.7B0. Benefit: a wide coverage area makes this camera well suited for small car parks, store fronts, corridors and residential driveways without needing multiple units.
- Minimum illumination:Colour 0.003 Lux (F1.4, AGC ON) and B/W 0 Lux with IR. Benefit: DarkFighter technology and sensitive optics capture usable colour detail in dim conditions and switch to IR for full night coverage.
- IR and illumination:850 nm IR LED with smart IR up to 30 m. Benefit: reliable identification at night and adaptive illumination that reduces IR overexposure on near subjects.
- AcuSense analytics:Human/vehicle classification and face capture refine event detection and lower nuisance alarms from animals, foliage or small moving objects. Benefit: fewer false positives and better prioritised alerts for security teams.
- Audio:Built-in mono microphone and support for a variety of audio codecs (G.711, AAC, MP3, etc.). Benefit: audio can add contextual information to recorded events where permitted by local law.
- Other features:BLC/HLC, ROI, tamper detection and multiple streams. Benefit: tools for handling backlight, optimising bandwidth, protecting footage integrity and integrating with monitoring systems.
- Compression:H.265 / H.264 and enhanced H.265+/H.264+ reduce bandwidth and storage compared with older codecs. Benefit: lower recurring storage costs or the ability to retain higher quality recordings for the same storage budget.
- Storage:On-board microSD support up to 512 GB. Benefit: local edge recording for standalone operation or failover when a network video recorder (NVR) is unreachable.
- Power:12 VDC or PoE (802.3af). Benefit: PoE simplifies deployments by providing data and power over a single cable, while 12 VDC offers a conventional hardwired option.
- Protocols & compatibility:TCP/IP, RTSP, HTTPS, IPv6, QoS and ONVIF (Profiles S/G/T). Benefit: interoperability with third-party NVRs and VMS platforms that support ONVIF.
- Dimensions & weight:Ø 110 C3 B7 57.4 mm, 380 g. Benefit: compact and discreet while maintaining a robust build.
- Operating temperature:2B0C to 60B0C. Benefit: reliable performance across a wide range of climate conditions.
- Ingress & impact protection:IP67 and IK08. Benefit: sealed against dust and heavy rain, and able to withstand moderate vandalism or impacts in public-facing locations.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
- Retail storefronts:Wide field of view and face capture make it a good choice for entrances where recognition and event verification matter. AcuSense reduces alerts from non-human triggers such as moving signage or animals.
- Small car parks and driveways:4 MP resolution and 30 m IR coverage offer useful night-time identification of vehicles and people without requiring multiple cameras.
- Commercial premises:Offices, lobbies and loading bays benefit from the cameras tamper detection and vandal resistance. PoE simplifies wiring in retrofit or new-build environments.
- Residential security:Homeowners who want a discreet, weatherproof camera with reliable low-light performance and simple edge recording will find this a cost-effective option.
- Entry and perimeter monitoring:AcuSense analytics can be used to trigger targeted alarms or video clips for human and vehicle activity, improving monitoring efficiency for security teams.
How it compares with similar products on the market
The DS-2CD2546G2-IS sits in the mid-range professional IP camera segment. Compared with generic 2 MP dome cameras, it offers a clear advantage in resolution (4 MP) and analytics (AcuSense human/vehicle classification). The DarkFighter sensor is a step up from standard low-light cameras, providing better colour at low lux levels.
Against higher-end models with motorised varifocal lenses or larger sensors, the DS-2CD2546G2-IS trades off extreme low-light performance and zoom flexibility for a lower price and a simpler, smaller form factor. If you need long-range recognition (for example, multi-lane highways or large perimeters), a varifocal or 8 MP camera may be more appropriate. For most retail, residential and small commercial applications, the balance of wide FOV, analytics and ruggedness makes this mini dome highly competitive.
Interoperability via ONVIF and common codecs means it can be integrated into many VMS/NVR ecosystems. Hikvisions H.265+ compression is an advantage for users who need to reduce storage costs without upgrading recording hardware.
Customer feedback and typical reviews
While individual experiences vary, typical comments from installers and end users for cameras in this category include:
- "Excellent image clarity for the price — we can make out faces at typical entry distances."
- "AcuSense dramatically cut down false alarms in our retail store compared with motion-only sensors."
- "PoE made installation quick and tidy, and the 2.8 mm lens covers our front porch without blind spots."
- "Edge storage was useful during a short network outage; footage continued to be recorded locally."
Note: buyers should confirm warranty, CE/UKCA marking and firmware status with the vendor before purchase. Installation and compliance requirements vary by location and should be followed to ensure legal and safe use of audio and video recording features.
Conclusion: why this camera is a great choice
The DS-2CD2546G2-IS(2.8mm)(C) 4 MP AcuSense mini dome offers a carefully balanced feature set well suited to many everyday security needs. It combines a high-resolution sensor, effective low-light performance (DarkFighter plus 30 m IR), and intelligent AcuSense analytics in a compact, weatherproof housing. This combination reduces false alarms, lowers storage and bandwidth costs through efficient codecs, and simplifies deployment via PoE. For small-to-medium retail, commercial and residential sites where robust performance and sensible cost are important, this camera represents a practical and capable option.
If you require extended warranties, third-party certifications or tailored configurations (varifocal lenses, higher resolution or integrated illumination), consider those factors when comparing alternatives. Otherwise, with a suggested price of $169 (cost price reference $112.88), the DS-2CD2546G2-IS delivers a strong value proposition for those seeking reliable, intelligent surveillance in a compact form.
