Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2TD2617-6/QA
The Hikvision DS-2TD2617-6/QA is a bi‑spectrum network bullet camera that combines a 160×120 VOx thermal sensor with a 4 MP optical sensor to deliver fused thermal and visible images for perimeter and critical‑infrastructure monitoring. Designed for outdoor use in demanding environments, the unit packages temperature‑exception alarms, perimeter analytics and built‑in fire/smoke detection into an IP67/IK10 hardened housing. With flexible power options (12 VDC or PoE) and a suggested retail price of approximately $599, the DS-2TD2617-6/QA aims to provide a practical balance of thermal capability and optical verification for security, industrial and public‑safety applications.
Key features at a glance
- Dual‑spectrum imaging:160×120 thermal module paired with a 4 MP (2688×1520) optical sensor, with image fusion and Picture‑in‑Picture modes for quick visual verification.
- Temperature alarms & measurement:Supports temperature exception detection across −20 °C to 150 °C and up to 21 measurement rules (10 points, 10 areas, 1 line) — useful for early detection and alarm triggers (note: ±8 °C accuracy).
- Perimeter analytics:Built‑in VCA including line crossing, intrusion and region entrance/exit (up to 8 rules) to reduce false alarms and automate event handling.
- Fire & smoke detection:Onboard detection logic with configurable audible and visual (strobe) outputs to assist early fire response.
- Rugged, outdoor ready:IP67 and IK10 ratings, TVS 6000 V surge protection and an operating range down to −40 °C make it suitable for exposed installations.
- Flexible installation:PoE (802.3af) or 12 VDC power and low typical consumption (~6 W) simplify deployments.
Detailed specifications and practical benefits
- Sensor Type:VOx uncooled FPA (Vanadium Oxide)
- Resolution:160 × 120 (upscalable to 320 × 240)
- Pixel Pitch:17 µm;Spectral Response:8–14 µm
- NETD:< 40 mK (@25 °C, F#=1.1)
- Focal Length / FOV:6.2 mm, IFOV 2.74 mrad, approx. 25.0° × 18.7°
- Aperture / Min Focus:F1.1, min focus 0.6 m; Digital zoom ×2 / ×4
Benefit: the thermal module provides clear heat‑based detection for low‑light and smoke‑obscured conditions. The VOx sensor and low NETD mean good sensitivity to temperature changes, making it valuable for detecting people, vehicles or hot spots in complete darkness or through light smoke/obscuration.
- Image Sensor:1/2.7" progressive scan CMOS
- Resolution:2688 × 1520 (4 MP)
- Lens:8 mm typical (some variants listed as 6 mm — confirm before purchase)
- Field of View:≈ 39.4° × 22.1° (for 8 mm)
- Min. Illumination:≈ 0.0089 Lux (colour @ F1.6, AGC ON); 0 Lux with IR
- Shutter / WDR:1 s to 1/100,000 s; WDR 120 dB
Benefit: the 4 MP optical sensor allows identification and visual confirmation when thermal alarms occur. The higher visible resolution complements thermal detections for operator verification and forensic review.
- Thermal frame rate:Up to 25 fps;Optical frame rate:25/30 fps (region dependent)
- Encoding:H.265 / H.264 / MJPEG
- Resolutions:Multiple output options (thermal up to 1280×720 output choices; optical up to 4 MP)
- Analytics:Perimeter VCA (line crossing, intrusion, region), temperature measurement (21 rules), built‑in fire & smoke detection and configurable alarm outputs
Benefit: efficient video compression and flexible analytic rules reduce bandwidth and storage needs while automating common security events. Fusion modes help operators focus on meaningful incidents instead of noise.
- Ingress / Impact:IP67, IK10
- Surge Protection:TVS 6000 V
- Operating Temp:−40 °C to 65 °C; Humidity ≤ 95% non‑condensing
- Dimensions & Weight:≈ 358.3 × 113.5 × 115.2 mm; ≈ 1.7–1.8 kg
Benefit: the rugged housing and wide operating range make the camera suitable for exposed perimeters, industrial sites and areas with extreme weather or electrical disturbances.
- Power Supply:12 VDC ±25% (φ 5.5 mm) or PoE (802.3af, Class 3)
- Power Consumption:≈ 6 W (varies by mode)
Benefit: PoE simplifies install wiring and offers centralised power management; low typical consumption lowers operating cost.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
- Perimeter security:The combination of thermal detection and optical verification is well suited to large outdoor perimeters (fencing, substations, storage yards), where thermal sensors detect intrusions at night or in poor visibility and the optical sensor confirms identity or vehicle details.
- Critical infrastructure & utility sites:Power substations, telecom stations and water treatment plants benefit from the camera's rugged design, surge protection and automated analytics that trigger alarms for unauthorized access.
- Early fire detection and industrial monitoring:The built‑in fire and smoking detection plus temperature‑exception alarms provide an early warning layer in warehouses, transformer yards and other areas where hot spots indicate equipment failure or fire risk.
- Port & transport hubs:Situations where long perimeters and mixed lighting conditions exist — thermal detects vessels or people at night, optical camera verifies license plates, logos or clothing during daytime.
- Remote or off‑grid sites:Low power consumption and PoE compatibility, combined with robust environmental ratings, make the camera suitable for installations where servicing is infrequent and reliability is critical.
How it compares with similar products on the market
Bi‑spectrum cameras occupy a spectrum of tradeoffs between thermal resolution, optical clarity and cost. The DS-2TD2617-6/QA targets users who need a practical, rugged dual‑sensor solution without the higher price of high‑end thermal systems.
- Thermal imaging enables detection in total darkness, through light smoke or foliage, and where visible cameras would fail.
- Temperature alarms add a layer of automated eventing that optical cameras alone cannot provide.
- Compared with cameras that use larger thermal FPA arrays (e.g., 320×240, 640×512), the DS-2TD2617-6/QA has a lower native thermal resolution (160×120). That tradeoff is reflected in its lower cost and smaller size while still offering reliable detection for many perimeter and monitoring tasks.
- High‑end thermography cameras with precision temperature accuracy are designed for medical or laboratory use; the DS-2TD2617-6/QA is not intended for clinical thermography given its ±8 °C accuracy but is well suited for exception detection and site monitoring.
For customers seeking a balance of price and capability, this Hikvision model competes favorably against entry‑level bi‑spectrum units and undercuts many higher‑resolution thermal devices while offering robust analytics and environmental protection. If a deployment requires higher thermal resolution or tight temperature tolerances, consider models with larger thermal sensors and specified thermographic accuracy.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
No official customer testimonials were included with the product data provided. Typical feedback from field installers and security managers working with comparable Hikvision bi‑spectrum cameras tends to emphasize the following themes:
- Positive:Easy pairing of thermal and optical feeds with fusion modes helps operators quickly validate alarms, reducing false alarm handling time.
- Positive:Rugged housing and surge protection are consistently appreciated in exposed installations where lightning or vandalism are concerns.
- Constructive:The thermal resolution and temperature accuracy are fine for detection and alarm triggers but not for precision measurement — installers often pair these cameras with higher‑accuracy sensors where exact temperature readings are critical.
- Value note:Many buyers report that the blend of thermal capability and a 4 MP visible sensor at this price point represents good value for perimeter and industrial monitoring projects.
Installation & compliance reminders
When deploying the DS-2TD2617-6/QA, confirm the optical lens focal length on the specific unit you receive (8 mm is common; some resellers list 6 mm variants). Firmware and regional variants may affect available features; verify compatibility and warranty status with an authorised distributor. Importantly, the camera supports temperature exception detection but is not designed or certified for medical or precision thermography because of its stated accuracy (±8 °C).
Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2TD2617-6/QA?
The Hikvision DS-2TD2617-6/QA is a pragmatic bi‑spectrum thermal + optical bullet camera that brings together rugged hardware, automated perimeter analytics and temperature‑exception alarms in a single package. Its strengths lie in night‑time and low‑visibility detection, automated perimeter monitoring, and reliable operation in harsh outdoor environments. While not a replacement for high‑precision thermographic instruments, it is well suited for perimeter security, industrial monitoring and early fire detection where fused thermal/visible imaging and automated alarms provide tangible operational benefits.
At a suggested retail price around $599 and with flexible PoE or 12 VDC power options, the camera offers a cost‑effective entry into dual‑spectrum surveillance for organisations that need dependable detection and verification without the premium of high‑end thermal platforms. As with any security investment, confirm the exact model variant, lens focal length and warranty terms with your authorised supplier to ensure the camera meets your site requirements.
