Introduction: What the Hikvision DS-2TD2138-10/QY Offers
The Hikvision DS-2TD2138-10/QY Thermal Network Bullet Camera is a purpose-built thermal security camera designed for perimeter protection, industrial monitoring and temperature‑exception alerts. With a 384 × 288 VOx uncooled thermal detector, a 9.7 mm thermal lens and onboard temperature measurement, this model blends thermal imaging performance with practical analytics for early detection of intrusion, fire risk and overheating equipment. Ruggedised to IP67/IK10 standards and supporting PoE, it is intended for harsh outdoor and anti‑corrosion environments where continuous, reliable operation is essential.
Key Features at a Glance
- 384 × 288 VOx thermal detectorwith 12 µm pixels and NETD < 35 mK for clear thermal imagery.
- 9.7 mm thermal lens(approx. 26° × 20° FOV) and digital zoom up to 8× for flexible coverage.
- Temperature measurementacross −20 °C to 150 °C with point/line/area modes and temp‑exception alarms.
- Smart analyticsincluding rule‑based VCA (line crossing, intrusion, region enter/exit) with person/vehicle detection.
- Rugged connectivity—PoE (802.3af), 12 VDC/24 VAC, microSD recording, NAS support and ONVIF compliance for easy integration.
- Durability—IP67 ingress, IK10 impact rating and TVS 6000 V lightning protection for outdoor reliability.
Detailed Specifications and Benefits
The camera uses a 384 × 288 vanadium oxide (VOx) uncooled FPA with a 12 µm pixel pitch. This resolution is a practical balance between detection range and cost, providing clear silhouettes and thermal contrast for people, vehicles and hot spots. With a NETD of <35 mK (at 25 °C, F1.0), the sensor can detect subtle temperature differences—important for spotting early overheating and small thermal anomalies.
The 9.7 mm thermal lens yields approximately a 26° × 20° field of view and an IFOV ≈ 1.24 mrad, which makes the camera effective for mid‑range perimeter monitoring and equipment observation. Digital zoom (2×/4×/8×) allows closer inspection of thermal details in focus regions without changing optics. Minimum focus is 1.2 m, which helps for near-field inspections as well as longer-range detection.
A headline capability of this model is temperature measurement from −20 °C to 150 °C. Measurement modes include single point, line and area, enabling flexible monitoring: a single point for bearings, a line across a conveyor belt, or an area over an electrical cabinet. Temperature‑exception alarms are configurable, so the system can alert operators to overheating that could indicate component failure or early fire risk. Note that the datasheet lists an example accuracy figure of ±8 °C; for critical or regulatory use, calibrate and validate on‑site and consider using reference sources or blackbody calibration where higher absolute accuracy is required.
Built‑in rule‑based video content analytics (VCA) supports up to eight rules for line crossing, intrusion and region entry/exit, and can classify person vs vehicle targets. Multiple video streams (main/sub/third) with H.265, H.264 and MJPEG compression let you balance image quality and bandwidth. Thermal streams operate up to 25 fps. Network support includes ONVIF Profile S/G, RTSP and common TCP/IP protocols, enabling integration with VMS platforms and NVRs. Storage options include microSD (up to 256 GB), NAS (NFS/SMB) and ANR for recording reliability when the network is interrupted.
The camera supports PoE (802.3af Class 3) for simplified deployment and also accepts 12 VDC or 24 VAC. Mechanicals and environmental protections are robust: IP67 weatherproofing, IK10 impact resistance and TVS 6000 V surge protection for lightning resilience. Operating temperature range is −40 °C to 65 °C, making the unit suitable for extreme climates. Physical dimensions and a roughly 1.77 kg weight mean the unit mounts like a conventional bullet camera while offering the durability expected for outdoor security installations.
Use Cases Where This Camera Excels
- Perimeter security:Detect and classify intruders in low‑light or no‑light conditions where visible cameras struggle. Analytics such as line crossing and intrusion reduce false alarms and improve situational awareness.
- Industrial site monitoring:Monitor transformers, motors and storage tanks for abnormal heating. Thermal alarms allow early detection of failing equipment before catastrophic failure.
- Transport hubs and logistics:Monitor platform areas, rail yards and loading zones for unauthorized access or hot brakes/overheated components on rolling stock and vehicles.
- Power stations and utilities:Continuous monitoring of electrical cabinets, substations and switchgear where temperature changes can indicate faults or incipient failures.
- Fire prevention and early warning:Continuous surveillance of vegetation belts, waste piles or hot work areas—thermal detection can identify hotspots or smoldering material not visible in normal CCTV.
How It Compares to Similar Products
Within the thermal security market, the DS-2TD2138-10/QY sits in a mid‑range performance class. Competitors include higher‑resolution thermal cameras and lower‑cost, lower‑spec models. Key comparative points:
Higher‑end models may offer 640 × 512 detectors which provide finer thermal detail and longer-ID ranges for small targets; conversely, budget models might use 160 × 120 or 256 × 192 sensors. The 384 × 288 VOx detector in this Hikvision model offers a good compromise—better target discrimination than entry‑level devices without the cost and processing demands of top-tier sensors.
Some specialized thermal cameras offer tighter temperature accuracy (±1–2 °C) and factory calibration with blackbody references—important for critical process control or medical screening. The DS-2TD2138-10/QY offers wide range measurement and useful alarm functionality but lists a conservative accuracy figure (±8 °C in datasheet examples), so it is best used for temperature‑exception detection rather than precision thermometry unless calibrated in situ.
In terms of ruggedisation and IP/IK ratings, this Hikvision model aligns with industrial expectations (IP67, IK10). Some competitors deliver similar ingress protection but may vary on surge protection or certified mounting options. ONVIF support and PoE keep this camera compatible with most VMS/NVR systems, an advantage over proprietary systems that restrict integration.
Customer Feedback and Installer Impressions
While not quoting specific named customers, common feedback themes from security integrators and facility managers using thermal bullet cameras like this model include:
- Reliable night performance:Integrators report thermal imaging significantly reduces false negatives at night and during poor visibility, allowing security teams to act earlier.
- Useful temperature alerts:Operators appreciate configurable temp‑exception alarms for equipment monitoring; it shortens mean time to detect overheating events.
- Integration friendly:Installers note that PoE and ONVIF compatibility simplify deployments and third‑party VMS integration, cutting setup time.
- Calibration caveat:Users frequently remind others to calibrate measurement thresholds on site and to understand the stated measurement accuracy before relying on absolute temperature readouts.
These practical impressions reflect the camera’s strengths—detection, robustness and integration—while also highlighting the need for awareness about measurement limitations and proper installation for temperature monitoring roles.
Considerations Before Purchase
- Regulatory and export controls:Thermal cameras can be subject to export licensing in some jurisdictions. Verify local compliance (CE/UKCA/country‑specific controls) before procurement.
- Calibration for precision tasks:If you require exact temperature readings (for process control or medical screening), plan for calibration with a blackbody and engage thermal‑measurement specialists.
- Installation:Mounting, power and network wiring should be performed by qualified installers or electricians in accordance with local regulations to ensure proper performance and safety.
- Warranty and support:Confirm current warranty terms and firmware support with your supplier; manufacturer warranties and firmware updates can change over time.
Conclusion: Who Should Choose the DS-2TD2138-10/QY?
The Hikvision DS-2TD2138-10/QY is an attractive option for organisations seeking a rugged, networked thermal bullet camera capable of perimeter protection, industrial monitoring and temperature‑exception alerts. Its 384 × 288 VOx sensor, flexible optics and built‑in analytics deliver reliable detection in low‑visibility conditions while PoE, ONVIF support and multiple recording options simplify integration into existing security infrastructures. While not positioned as a precision thermographic instrument, it provides practical temperature monitoring and an early‑warning capability that helps reduce risk from equipment failures and fire hazards.
For security managers, plant engineers and integrators who need robust outdoor thermal coverage with actionable alarms and straightforward system compatibility, the DS-2TD2138-10/QY is a strong mid‑range choice. Evaluate your accuracy requirements, plan for proper calibration if needed, and confirm regulatory and warranty details with your supplier to make the most of this camera’s capabilities.
