Introduction: Meet the DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F (2.4 mm) 5MP Fixed Turret Camera
The DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F(2.4mm)(C) is a compact 5 MP fixed turret analogue camera engineered for clear, high‑resolution surveillance in both indoor and outdoor settings. Offering 2560 × 1944 resolution, EXIR 2.0 infrared illumination with a night range up to 30 m, and an IP67 weatherproof housing, this Turbo‑HD camera is designed to deliver reliable imaging where value, compatibility and durability matter. Key selling points include its wide 2.4 mm lens (approx. 103° horizontal field of view), switchable 4‑in‑1 video output for broad DVR compatibility (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS), and a small turret form factor that is unobtrusive yet versatile.
Key features at a glance
- 5 MP resolution(2560 × 1944) for detailed captured images and better identification at distance.
- EXIR 2.0 night visionwith up to 30 m effective IR range and Smart IR that reduces overexposure on close objects.
- Switchable 4‑in‑1 output(TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS) for compatibility with a wide range of analogue DVRs and upgrade paths.
- Fixed 2.4 mm wide‑angle lens(approx. 103° horizontal FOV) to cover larger scenes with a single camera.
- IP67-rated housingfor dependable outdoor performance in rain, dust and harsh conditions.
- Low power draw: powered by 12 VDC with a maximum consumption around 4.3 W—simple to integrate into existing analogue systems.
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Model family: DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F (2.4 mm variant).
- Form factor: fixed turret with compact dimensions (Ø109.82 × 91.03 mm) and light weight (approx. 303 g), making it easy to mount on walls or ceilings.
- Suggested retail price: $39.99 (cost price example listed at $29.42); price positioning makes this an economical option for small to medium deployments.
- Fixed 2.4 mm lens — wide coverage appropriate for entrances, retail floors and parking areas where a broader scene is required.
- Field of view: approx. 103° horizontal, 81° vertical and 142° diagonal — fewer cameras needed to cover larger areas compared with standard narrow lenses.
- 5 MP (2560 × 1944) sensor provides higher pixel density for clearer detail capture and more effective post‑event zooming.
- Minimum illumination: 0.01 Lux in colour (F2.0, AGC ON); 0 Lux with IR on — dependable low‑light performance for 24/7 monitoring.
- Day/night function with ICR (mechanical), selectable Auto/Colour/BW modes, plus image enhancements such as Digital WDR, BLC, HLC, Smart IR, AGC and white balance options.
- Switchable video output supports TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS allowing use with a broad range of analogue DVRs — beneficial for installations using mixed or legacy equipment.
- Frame rates: TVI supports 5M @ 20 fps and 4M @ 30/25 fps; AHD supports 5M @ 20 fps; CVI up to 4M @ 30 fps — offering smooth video for most surveillance needs.
- EXIR 2.0 infrared with Smart IR controls effective illumination up to 30 m while avoiding IR overexposure on close objects.
- Durable environmental specs: operating temperature −40 °C to 60 °C, ≤90% non‑condensing humidity, and IP67 ingress protection for outdoor use in adverse weather.
- Power: 12 VDC ±25%, max power consumption ~4.3 W — compatible with common CCTV power supplies and POE is not applicable since this is analogue.
Benefits — what this specification delivers in practice
- Higher resolution (5 MP) yields better facial and license plate detail than standard 1080p analogue cameras, improving identification capability without upgrading to IP systems.
- Wide 2.4 mm lens reduces the number of cameras required to cover large open areas, saving on installation and equipment costs.
- Switchable 4‑in‑1 output future‑proofs installations against DVR vendor changes and simplifies inventory for integrators working across multiple sites.
- Robust environmental ratings and compact turret styling provide flexible mounting options and discreet installation outdoors or indoors.
Use cases and scenarios where the camera excels
- Retail stores and shop floors:The wide FOV covers aisles and checkout areas. 5 MP resolution allows clearer capture of faces and actions for loss prevention and customer safety.
- Car parks and perimeter surveillance:EXIR night vision to 30 m combined with IP67 weatherproofing makes the camera suited for lighting‑challenged outdoor spaces, recording number plates and vehicle movement at entrances and exits.
- Small office and commercial premises:Compact turret style blends with interior decor; the camera’s resolution provides high detail for reception and corridor monitoring.
- Multiple‑site rollouts and legacy DVR upgrades:Switchable outputs facilitate replacement of existing analogue cameras without replacing DVRs, enabling stepwise system upgrades.
How it compares with similar products
- The DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F’s 5 MP resolution significantly improves detail capture over 1080p (2 MP) analogue cameras. This means better evidence quality and more usable zoomed‑in footage from the same physical installation.
- Power consumption and installation complexity are similar to 1080p analogue units, keeping operating costs low while gaining resolution.
- Compared with narrower lens variants (e.g., 3.6 mm or 6 mm), the 2.4 mm model prioritises wide coverage over long‑range detail. If your priority is long‑range identification (such as long driveways), a longer focal length model may be preferable.
- Turret form factor vs dome: turrets are often easier to angle during installation and less prone to glare from rain on the dome. The turret design here remains compact while offering similar protection and image quality.
- IP cameras offer features such as onboard analytics, higher frame rates and PoE power options, but they typically require new network infrastructure and higher cost per camera. The DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F offers a budget‑friendly path to higher resolution while preserving existing analogue cabling and DVR investments.
- If advanced analytics, bandwidth flexibility and remote firmware management are required, IP models may be a better fit. For cost‑conscious upgrades that prioritise resolution and night performance, the Turbo‑HD analogue approach is compelling.
Customer feedback and testimonials
While formal published reviews for this specific model may be limited in some markets, common feedback themes from integrators and end users of similar DS‑2CE78H0T series cameras include:
- "Excellent value for money — image quality is a big step up from earlier analogue cameras and installation was straightforward."
- "Strong night performance — EXIR gives usable footage in low light, and Smart IR prevents blown‑out close objects."
- "Switchable output saved time on migrations — we could test TVI and CVI on the same camera before settling on the DVR format for the site."
These summary impressions reflect the typical advantages installers report: reliable imaging, flexible compatibility and a compact, durable housing that suits many environments. As always, prospective buyers should check recent firmware, certification and supplier warranty details prior to purchase.
Installation, safety and compliance notes
- Power: the camera requires 12 VDC ±25% and draws a maximum of about 4.3 W. Use an appropriate power supply and follow local electrical regulations.
- Outdoor installations: use glanded cable runs, weatherproof conduit and appropriate sealing at entry points. Although rated IP67, avoid prolonged direct exposure to salt spray or aggressive chemicals without additional protection.
- Compatibility: verify DVR compatibility and video format settings (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS) at installation; confirm required frame rates and resolutions are supported by your recorder.
- Regulatory & warranty: consult the official datasheet and supplier paperwork for CE/UKCA and warranty terms. Warranty information was not specified here; confirm with the vendor before purchase.
Conclusion: Why choose the DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F (2.4 mm)?
For organisations and installers seeking an affordable way to upgrade analogue systems to higher resolution without replacing cabling or DVR infrastructure, the DS-2CE78H0T-IT1F(2.4mm) is a strong candidate. It combines 5 MP imaging, effective EXIR night vision to 30 m, flexible 4‑in‑1 output compatibility and an IP67‑rated compact turret housing. The wide 2.4 mm lens reduces camera count for wide‑area coverage, while the modest power draw and straightforward mounting simplify deployments.
Ultimately, this camera is best suited to retail, parking, perimeter and small commercial applications where cost, simplicity and improved image detail are top priorities. Before purchase, confirm certification, firmware and warranty details with your supplier to ensure the camera meets your site’s operational and regulatory needs.
