Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY and its key features
The Hikvision DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY is a compact, purpose-built IP CCTV camera designed to deliver continuous full-colour surveillance in very low-light environments. Marketed as a 4MP ColourVu fixed mini bullet camera, it blends a super-aperture F1.0 lens, Smart Hybrid Light (integrated white light plus IR), on-board AI for person and vehicle classification, and rugged outdoor protection (IP67 / NEMA 4X). Offered as a PoE device with flexible storage options and multiple video codecs, this camera is a versatile choice for retail, small commercial, residential and perimeter monitoring where reliable low-light colour imaging and intelligent alerts matter.
Key highlightsinclude 4 MP (2688×1520) resolution, ColourVu F1.0 optics for near-dark colour capture, Smart Hybrid Light with up to 40 m effective range, built-in audio, person/vehicle AI analytics, PoE power, microSD storage up to 512 GB and a weatherproof metal housing rated to operate from −30 °C to 60 °C.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
- Sensor & resolution:A 1/1.8" progressive CMOS sensor provides 4 MP resolution (2688 × 1520), giving a good balance between field detail and bandwidth efficiency.
- Lenses & aperture:Fixed lens options (typically 2.8 mm or 4 mm) paired with an F1.0 super-aperture let the sensor capture more light than typical small‑format cameras. This translates into clearer, colour-rich images at very low lux levels (colour: 0.0001 Lux at F1.0) and the ability to operate in 0 Lux when the camera’s supplemental light is active.
- Illumination:The Smart Hybrid Light system blends white light and IR (850 nm) to keep scenes in colour where possible and switch to IR when needed—effective illumination to about 40 m—while supporting active strobe and audible alarm responses for deterrence.
- Image quality features:Up to 130 dB WDR, 3D DNR, BLC, HLC and defog processing help maintain usable images in contrasty scenes, reduce noise, and correct exposure issues common in outdoor surveillance.
- Encoding:Support for H.265 and H.264 (including enhanced H.265+/H.264+ variants) reduces storage and bandwidth without sacrificing essential detail.
- Multiple streams:Up to three simultaneous streams allow you to feed a recording server, a live-monitoring client and a low-bandwidth mobile stream concurrently.
- Image correction:Electronic image stabilization (EIS) and distortion correction improve the usability of footage in mounting locations where vibration or wide-angle lenses might otherwise degrade results.
- On-board AI:Deep-learning person and vehicle classification reduces false positives from animals or moving foliage and supports perimeter protection behaviors like line crossing, intrusion, and region enter/exit.
- Face capture:Capable of capturing faces for later review; useful in retail or access points when combined with appropriate privacy and data-handling policies.
- Audio:Built-in microphone (arrayed dual-mic variants on some SKUs) allows ambient audio recording and supports two-way audio when a compatible SKU or wiring is used.
- Connectivity:10/100 Mbps RJ-45, with support for ONVIF (S/G/T) ensuring interoperability with many NVRs and VMS platforms.
- Storage options:Local microSD up to 512 GB, NAS (NFS/SMB) and ANR support for resilient recording when network links are interrupted.
- Power:PoE (IEEE 802.3af) simplifies installation by carrying power over the data cable; 12 V DC input is also supported.
- Housing:Robust metal construction with IP67 and NEMA 4X ratings for dust and water resistance and protection against challenging outdoor environments.
- Operating range:Functionality across −30 °C to 60 °C makes the camera suitable for a wide variety of climates.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
The DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY is designed for locations where low-light colour imaging and intelligent detection add clear operational value. Typical deployments include:
- Retail stores:Colour imaging at night helps identify clothing colour, vehicle colour and other details important for loss-prevention and incident investigation. AI person detection reduces nuisance alarms from shoppers and staff movement.
- Small commercial premises:Offices, cafes and small warehouses benefit from PoE simplicity, on-board storage and perimeter protection to catch after-hours intrusions.
- Residential properties and gated communities:The mini bullet form factor and active deterrence features (white strobe and audible alarm) make it useful for driveways, entryways and perimeter coverage.
- Perimeter and parking areas:Long-range hybrid illumination (up to 40 m) and vehicle classification make it effective for car parks, loading bays and driveways where vehicle colour and plate context matter.
- Retrofit and mixed systems:ONVIF support and common codecs allow straightforward integration into existing networks and recording platforms without vendor lock-in.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY against alternatives, consider three dimensions: low-light performance, intelligent analytics and value.
- Low-light rivals:Some competitors use "Starlight" or similar low-light sensors that prioritise greyscale sensitivity. ColourVu’s F1.0 approach and hybrid white-light option aim to preserve colour information in conditions where Starlight cameras may revert to mono. If you need colour for identification at night, the ColourVu-equipped camera often has the edge.
- Analytics:Built-in person/vehicle classification is increasingly common; however, implementation quality varies. Hikvision’s deep-learning models tend to be well integrated, reducing false alarms, but buyers should validate detection performance in their target scenes (camera angle, clutter, lighting) as real-world results differ.
- Value and deployment:The combination of 4 MP resolution, PoE, robust housing and hybrid illumination places this camera in the mid-market professional segment. Compared with entry-level IP cameras, it offers better low-light colour and AI features. Compared with higher-end multi-sensor or PTZ solutions, it provides targeted performance at a much lower cost and complexity.
Customer feedback and representative reviews
Below are representative types of feedback typically reported by installers, integrators and end users evaluating this class of ColourVu camera. These are indicative comments summarizing common praise and concerns rather than verbatim sourced reviews.
- Positive:Installers often praise the camera for producing surprisingly crisp, colour images in near-dark conditions where older cameras showed only monochrome footage. Reviewers also highlight the ease of PoE installation, the deterrent effect of the white-light strobe, and the practical accuracy of the person/vehicle AI in reducing false alarms.
- Constructive:Some users note that bright, close-range white-light activation can cause momentary washout of the scene; tuning illumination thresholds and positions mitigates this. Integrators advise thorough commissioning to match AI sensitivity and to confirm firmware and ONVIF compatibility with the chosen NVR or VMS.
- Operational note:Audio and face-capture features are useful but subject to local privacy rules. Customers typically appreciate guidance on compliance and recommended configuration practices.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY is a strong choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY combines a compelling set of capabilities for customers who need reliable, full-colour imaging at night, straightforward PoE installation, and on-camera intelligence to cut false alarms. Its F1.0 ColourVu optics and Smart Hybrid Light make it especially valuable where colour detail after dark—such as clothing, vehicle colour and scene context—is important. Rugged construction, flexible storage and common network protocols enable wide deployment across retail, commercial, residential and perimeter applications.
For projects where a compact bullet form factor, effective low-light colour, and practical AI detection are priorities, this model represents a balanced, cost-effective option. As with any surveillance camera purchase, verify local certifications, confirm firmware and ONVIF interoperability with your recorder or VMS, and plan installation locations and illumination settings to get the best results from the cameras capabilities.
