Hikvision DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY 4 MP AcuSense Motorised Varifocal Dome (2.7–13.5 mm)

Introduction: What the Hikvision DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY offers

The Hikvision DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY is a purpose-built 4 MP AcuSense motorised varifocal dome network camera designed for outdoor perimeter and site surveillance. Combining Hikvisions DarkFighter low-light imaging, 120 dB True WDR, motorised 2.713.5 mm optics and AcuSense human/vehicle classification, this model aims to deliver clear daytime and nighttime images while reducing nuisance alarms. Ruggedised with IP67 weatherproofing and IK10 vandal resistance, it supports PoE (IEEE 802.3at) or 12 VDC power and includes on-board compute and HEOP/open SDK support for integrations.

Key features at a glance

• 4 MP resolution(2688 1520) at region-dependent frame rates for detailed images across a wide scene.
• Motorised varifocal lens(2.713.5 mm, F1.4) for in-field zooming and flexible field-of-view without ladder work.
• DarkFighter low-lightperformance for colour images down to 0.003 Lux and B/W with IR (up to ~40 m).
• AcuSense analyticswith human/vehicle classification to cut false positives from animals, leaves, or lighting changes.
• Robust imaging: True WDR 120 dB and 3D DNR for backlit scenes and low-noise captures.
• Rugged build: IP67 and IK10 for outdoor, exposed, or semi-exposed installations.
• Flexible power and integration: PoE or 12 VDC; HEOP/open SDK and on-board compute resources for edge processing.
• Suggested retail price: $599 (manufacturer suggested price; check local dealers for promotions).

Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver

The DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY uses a 1/3" progressive-scan CMOS sensor to capture 4 MP (2688 1520) images at up to 25/30 fps depending on region. The 4 MP resolution provides noticeably more detail than 2 MP/1080p cameras, which helps with license plate legibility at moderate distances, better facial detail during investigations and improved analytics accuracy.

The motorised 2.713.5 mm F1.4 varifocal lens enables installers or operators to adjust field-of-view remotely during commissioning or after deployment. Horizontally the camera covers roughly 107.632.9 depending on zoom setting, allowing a single camera to be used for wide-area coverage (e.g., car parks or yards) and to zoom in for identification when needed. This reduces the number of cameras required and simplifies rebalancing coverage after site changes.

Hikvisions DarkFighter technology supports colour imaging down to 0.003 Lux (F1.4, AGC on) and provides B/W images with IR illumination to 0 Lux when IR is active. The built-in IR reaches up to approximately 40 m (850 nm), making the camera suitable for perimeter corridors, entrances, and car parks where human/vehicle detection is important after dark.

True WDR up to 120 dB helps balance the light in scenes with strong backlighting (such as entrances with bright sunlight behind people), while 3D DNR reduces image noise in low-light conditions. Together these features improve image clarity for both live monitoring and recorded evidence.

A standout capability is AcuSense human/vehicle classification. By using deep-learning based classification on the edge (the camera offers around 1.5 TOPS of compute and ample memory for smart tasks), the system reduces false alarms caused by non-relevant motion. This is particularly valuable where security teams want fewer alert notifications and more meaningful events. On-board compute also enables perimeter protection rules and supports HEOP and open SDK access for third-party apps.

Support for H.265+/H.265/H.264+/H.264 compression reduces bandwidth and storage requirements compared with older codecs, which is important for 4 MP streams. Multiple streams with region-dependent frame rates let you provide high-resolution streams to recorders while sending lower-resolution streams to remote viewers to save bandwidth.

Rated to operate from 30C to 60C and up to 95% non-condensing humidity, with IP67 ingress protection and IK10 vandal resistance, the camera is designed for exposed sites. Power options include PoE (IEEE 802.3at, Class 4) or 12 VDC; an auxiliary 12 VDC output (100 mA) can power small accessories such as IR illuminators or heaters where required.

• Detect(6487 m): Spot motion and presence.
• Observe(2574 m): Monitor actions and movement.
• Recognise(1237 m): Identify general features such as clothing or large objects.
• Identify(618 m): Capture details sufficient for identification such as clear facial features at the closer end.

These ranges are useful when planning camera placement and focal length; the motorised zoom lets you tune the camera to the right DORI band for the monitored area.

Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels

• Perimeter security: The combination of AcuSense classification and strong low-light performance makes it ideal for fences, gates and outer boundaries where reducing false alarms is essential.
• Car parks and vehicle access points: Motorised zoom, good mid-range IR and wide FOV let a single camera cover large parking areas and zoom in to capture license plates or incidents.
• Remote or unmanned sites: On-board analytics reduce the need for 24/7 monitoring and cut down on unnecessary site visits triggered by false events.
• Retail and campus perimeter: Useful for detecting loitering, vehicle movements, and after-hours intrusions where classification improves guard response prioritisation.
• Industrial and logistics yards: Rugged ratings (IP67/IK10) and wide operating temperature range suit outdoor industrial environments.

How it compares to other camera types and models

When evaluating the DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY, it helps to consider trade-offs between resolution, analytics, lens flexibility and form factor.

Fixed-lens domes are usually less expensive but lack the on-the-fly framing flexibility of a motorised varifocal. A fixed lens might require multiple cameras to cover the same area or a re-installation if site needs change. The Hikvision varifocal dome reduces that risk and can adapt remotely.

2 MP cameras use less bandwidth and cost less upfront, but the 4 MP sensor here delivers clearer detail for identification and improves analytics accuracy. If your priority is improving detection and post-event review, the 4 MP option offers a strong value proposition.

Higher-resolution models (e.g., 4K) capture more detail at long distances but require markedly more bandwidth, storage and often more processing power for analytics. For many perimeter and parking use cases the 4 MP balance of detail, manageable bandwidth, and cost makes practical sense.

PTZs offer active tracking and long-range zoom but are mechanically more complex and more costly. The Hikvision motorised varifocal dome offers a middle ground: remote zoom and a wide field without the moving head complexity of a PTZ, and with integrated analytics at a lower price point than a full PTZ system.

Non-AcuSense cameras may still detect motion but will generate many more false alarms from irrelevant movement. The AcuSense classification is a differentiator where alarm quality and operator time are important.

Customer feedback and installer impressions (typical comments)

While specific reviews vary by region, common themes reported by installers and site managers include:

• "The motorised zoom saved us from a second camera installation — remote framing worked during commissioning and saved time."
• "AcuSense cut down our alarm volume significantly at night compared with older motion-only cameras."
• "DarkFighter produced useful colour images at dusk where other cameras went monochrome too early."
• "Good build quality for external use — the dome has stood up to weather and occasional impacts in a busy car park."

These representative comments reflect the type of benefits end users frequently cite: fewer false positives, easier commissioning, and stronger low-light performance.

Conclusion: Why choose the Hikvision DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY

The Hikvision DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY is a well-rounded outdoor dome camera that balances image quality, smart analytics and practical field features. Its 4 MP sensor delivers useful detail for identification and investigations while H.265+/H.265 compression keeps bandwidth and storage demands manageable. The motorised 2.713.5 mm lens provides installation flexibility and future-proofs coverage as site requirements change. DarkFighter low-light capability and a 40 m IR range ensure usable night images, while AcuSense human/vehicle classification reduces nuisance alarms and prioritises meaningful events.

For perimeter security, car parks, campuses and remote sites that require reliable detection, flexible field-of-view and durable outdoor performance, the DS-2CD3746G2T-IZSY represents a compelling mid-range option. Priced competitively against higher-resolution or PTZ alternatives, it aims to deliver the right mix of analytics, optics and ruggedness for many commercial and industrial surveillance applications.