Introduction: Meet the Hikvision DS-2CD2346G2H-IU 4MP AcuSense Turret Camera
Hikvision DS-2CD2346G2H-IU (2.8mm)is a compact, versatile IP CCTV camera purpose-built for reliable indoor and outdoor surveillance. Combining a 4 MP sensor with Hikvisions Powered-by-DarkFighter low-light imaging and AcuSense deep-learning analytics, this turret-style camera delivers clear daytime and nighttime images, reduces false alarms through human/vehicle classification and includes a built-in microphone for audio capture. With IP67 weatherproofing, PoE power options and a wide 2.8 mm field of view, its aimed at perimeter, entrance, parking and building surveillance where both image quality and smart alerting matter.
Key features at a glance
- 4 MP (2688 1520) progressive CMOS sensor for detailed video.
- Powered-by-DarkFighter low-light technology for usable colour images in near-dark conditions (colour at 0.001 Lux @ F1.0).
- AcuSense deep-learning human/vehicle classification to reduce nuisance alarms and prioritise important events.
- Built-in mono microphone supporting common audio codecs for contextual audio capture.
- 120 dB True WDR, 3D DNR, BLC/HLC and Smart IR up to 30 m for challenging light and night scenes.
- H.265/H.264 compression with optimized profiles (H.265+/H.264+) for efficient storage and bandwidth use.
- PoE (802.3af) or 12 VDC power options, microSD card storage support and an IP67 metal housing for all-weather use.
Detailed specifications and benefits
This camera blends practical hardware with software intelligence. Below are the key technical specifications and the benefits they provide to real-world systems.
- Sensor & resolution:1/3" progressive CMOS delivering 2688 1520 (4 MP). Benefit: higher pixel count improves identification of faces and vehicle details compared with standard 2 MP options.
- Lens & field of view:Fixed 2.8 mm (M12) lens with H 100.2 / V 54.7 / diagonal 119.7. Benefit: a wide field of view that covers entrances, driveways and general perimeter areas with fewer cameras.
- Aperture & depth of field:F1.0 aperture and focus roughly from 1.9 m to infinity (2.8 mm). Benefit: bright optics help maintain colour performance in low ambient light.
- DarkFighter:Powered-by-DarkFighter delivers colour images down to very low lux levels (colour 0.001 Lux @ F1.0 with AGC). Benefit: retain colour details at night that would normally be monochrome with conventional sensors.
- Smart IR:Infrared illumination up to 30 m (850 nm) with B/W 0 Lux when IR is active. Benefit: reliable identification further into the scene in total darkness.
- Image enhancement:120 dB True WDR, BLC, HLC and 3D DNR. Benefit: balanced exposure in scenes with strong backlight, reduced noise and clearer details under difficult lighting.
- Compression:H.265 / H.264 / H.265+ / H.264+ plus MJPEG on sub-streams. Benefit: H.265 and optimized codecs reduce bandwidth and storage while keeping image quality.
- Audio:Built-in mono microphone supporting G.711, G.722.1, G.726, MP2L2, PCM, MP3 and AAC-LC. Benefit: adds contextual audio for events, which can assist investigations and situational awareness.
- Storage & network:RJ45 10/100 Mbps Ethernet, up to 6 simultaneous live view channels and microSD card support. Benefit: flexible deployment options including edge recording when network connectivity is limited.
- Power:PoE (IEEE 802.3af) or 12 VDC with typical consumption around 9 W. Benefit: PoE simplifies installation and cabling, while a DC option allows legacy power setups.
- Durability:Metal housing, IP67 ingress protection and operating range -30 C to 60 C. Benefit: reliable outdoor performance in harsh weather conditions.
- Form factor:Turret design (Ø 138.3 mm 115.4 mm) and approx. 550 g. Benefit: compact, discreet mounting and easier aiming compared with bulkier housings.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The DS-2CD2346G2H-IU is designed for environments that require a combination of image quality, low-light performance and intelligent detection. Typical applications include:
- Perimeter and entrance surveillance:Wide FOV and AcuSense classification help monitor gates, fences and building entrances while reducing alarm noise from animals or moving foliage.
- Parking areas and driveways:DarkFighter and 30 m IR allow license plates and vehicle details to be captured at night; AcuSense distinguishes vehicles from other motion sources for more accurate alerts.
- Retail and commercial sites:4 MP resolution supports identification of individuals and incidents, while audio capture assists loss prevention and customer service situations.
- Residential and multi-tenant buildings:Compact turret form and PoE make it suitable for front doors, lobbies and communal areas where discrete yet capable cameras are required.
- Light-critical zones:Any site where colour detail at low light is important (e.g., hospitality entrances, late-night retail) benefits from DarkFighter performance.
How it compares with similar cameras on the market
When choosing a camera youll weigh resolution, low-light performance, analytics, build quality and cost. Heres how this Hikvision turret stacks up in common comparison points:
- Resolution:At 4 MP it offers more detail than 2 MP options, which helps for identification. Compared to 8 MP or higher devices, it strikes a balance between detail and bandwidth/storage efficiency.
- Low-light imaging:DarkFighter-equipped cameras typically outperform standard low-light sensors by keeping scenes in colour at lower lux levels. If night colour fidelity is a priority, DarkFighter is an advantage.
- Analytics:AcuSense human/vehicle classification reduces false positives compared with basic motion detection. Competitors may offer similar AI analytics (e.g., people/vehicle detection), but AcuSense is well-established and integrated into Hikvisions ecosystem.
- Form factor:Turret cameras are compact and vandal-resistant compared with dome cameras and less conspicuous than large bullet cameras; they are often easier to aim and maintain.
- Value:With a suggested retail near $129.99, the DS-2CD2346G2H-IU aims to deliver advanced low-light performance and analytics at an accessible price point for small-to-medium deployments. Higher-end specialist cameras with more features or premium sensors can cost significantly more.
- Alternatives:If you need ultra-long-range IR or ultra-high resolution (4K+), consider specialized bullet or PTZ models. If you prioritise stealth or vandal resistance, certain dome models may be preferable. Many manufacturers (including Dahua, Uniview and others) offer comparable turret or bullet cameras with similar specs; selection often comes down to ecosystem compatibility, software features and price.
Customer feedback and reviews
While formal customer testimonials for this exact model may vary by vendor, common points reported by integrators and end users for Hikvision AcuSense/DarkFighter models include:
- Clearer night-time colour footage compared with standard cameras, which improves identification and evidence quality.
- Fewer nuisance alarms after enabling AcuSense classification, saving operator time and storage of irrelevant events.
- Ease of installation with PoE and compact turret mounting; many installers appreciate the simple wiring and flexible placement options.
- Good value for money when balancing image quality, analytics and environmental robustness.
Note: If you need verified, specific user reviews, check vendor sites, installer forums and retail listings where purchasers often leave star ratings and detailed comments. Also consider asking your installer for references or to show sample footage from the same model in real deployments.
Installation considerations and compliance
For reliable operation and to meet safety or regulatory requirements, have the camera fitted by a qualified installer or electrician. Follow the official Hikvision datasheet and firmware guidance for secure configuration, network hardening, and any regional certification requirements (CE/UKCA where applicable). Use PoE-capable switches for simplified power and data, and consider surge protection for outdoor installs.
Conclusion: Why the DS-2CD2346G2H-IU is a solid choice
The Hikvision DS-2CD2346G2H-IU (2.8 mm) turret camera offers a compelling blend of practical defenses: a 4 MP sensor for crisp images, Powered-by-DarkFighter for superior low-light colour imaging, AcuSense analytics to reduce false alerts and a weatherproof metal housing for reliable outdoor use. Its built-in microphone and efficient video codecs add valuable context while keeping storage and bandwidth in check. For organisations and homeowners seeking cost-effective, reliable surveillance that performs well both day and night — especially in scenarios where distinguishing people and vehicles is important — this camera represents a balanced, feature-rich option.
Suggested price:$129.99 (check local vendors for availability and current pricing). For safe installation and full technical details, consult the Hikvision datasheet and a qualified installer.
