Introduction: What the Hikvision DS-2CD2746G2-IZS Offers
The Hikvision DS-2CD2746G2-IZS/BLACK(C) is a 4 MP AcuSense motorised varifocal dome camera that blends advanced imaging, on‑board AI and rugged hardware for reliable outdoor surveillance. Key features include a 4 MP (2688 × 1520) sensor, DarkFighter low‑light technology, motorised 2.8–12 mm varifocal lens with remote zoom and focus, AcuSense human/vehicle classification, 120 dB true WDR and up to ~40 m Smart IR. With PoE, H.265+ compression and IP66/IK10-rated metal housing, the camera is aimed at commercial, retail and perimeter installations that demand clear images and fewer false alarms.
Key Features at a Glance
- Resolution:4 MP (2688 × 1520) for crisp scene detail and identification.
- AcuSense AI:Human and vehicle classification to filter out irrelevant motion and reduce false alarms.
- DarkFighter:Enhanced low‑light performance for colour images at very low lux levels.
- Motorised varifocal lens:2.8–12 mm with remote zoom/focus to simplify commissioning and adjust coverage without climbing a ladder.
- Durability:IP66 weatherproofing and IK10 vandal resistance for outdoor or exposed locations.
- Efficient compression:H.265/H.265+ support to save bandwidth and storage while maintaining image quality.
Detailed Specifications and Benefits
The camera employs a 1/3" progressive‑scan CMOS sensor delivering 2688 × 1520 resolution. The motorised 2.8–12 mm F1.4 varifocal lens provides a horizontal field of view that ranges approximately from 108° (wide) to 30° (tele), allowing both broad area monitoring and narrower, detail‑focused views. Remote zoom and focus make installation and later adjustments fast and safe because installers can tune the view over the network rather than physically adjusting the lens.
DarkFighter low‑light technology keeps colours and detail visible at very low illumination (colour down to 0.003 lux at F1.4 with AGC on) and the Smart IR extends effective monochrome night viewing to roughly 40 m. Combined with 120 dB true WDR and 3D DNR noise reduction, the camera handles scenes with high contrast (backlighting, headlights) and reduces motion blur and grain for more useful footage.
AcuSense analytics is a standout: the camera performs on‑device classification to distinguish humans and vehicles from other motion sources such as animals, leaves or shadows. This significantly lowers nuisance alerts and focuses operator attention on meaningful events. Built‑in face capture, perimeter protection and smart motion further refine detection and response workflows. Triple‑stream support allows simultaneous high‑quality recording, remote live view and efficient mobile streaming.
Networking is standardised with a single RJ45 10/100 Mbps port, ONVIF compatibility and support for IPv4/IPv6 and RTSP. Onboard microSD storage (distributors list up to 256 GB) provides recording redundancy or local buffering. For power the camera supports PoE (802.3af, Class 3) or 12 V DC, simplifying deployments by allowing power and data over a single cable in many installations. H.265+ compression reduces bandwidth and storage use versus older codecs, keeping ongoing operating costs lower.
The metal housing and IP66/IK10 ratings mean the camera is built for outdoor exposure and vandal‑prone locations. Physical dimensions (Ø153.5 × 133.1 mm) and a weight of ~845 g make it a compact but substantial dome suitable for ceilings, soffits and wall mounts (surface/ceiling mount compatible). Installers should follow local regulations and Hikvision guidance for wiring, grounding and weatherproofing; the manufacturer also recommends professional installation for safety and warranty compliance.
Use Cases and Where This Camera Excels
The DS-2CD2746G2-IZS is designed for scenarios that require clear imagery under mixed lighting, intelligent alarm filtering and a rugged form factor:
- Retail and storefronts:Wide field monitoring to detect suspicious behaviour, with AcuSense reducing false alarms from lighting changes and non‑human movement.
- Car parks and vehicle entrances:Vehicle classification, long enough IR reach for parking lanes and 4 MP detail for reading plates at reasonable distances.
- Perimeter security:Combined WDR, DarkFighter and AI detections make it suitable for gates and fences where lighting can vary and nuisance alarms are common.
- Campus and municipal surveillance:Robust housing handles outdoor exposure while motorised zoom allows re‑framing remote scenes without physical access.
- Mixed lighting environments:Entrances with bright backlight, adjacent shadows or headlights—true WDR and DarkFighter improve usable footage in these conditions.
Comparisons with Similar Cameras
When evaluating this Hikvision camera, it helps to compare it across three axes: image quality & low‑light, analytics, and mechanical flexibility.
- Vs fixed‑lens 4 MP domes:Fixed lens cameras are simpler and cheaper, but lack the DS‑2CD2746G2‑IZS's motorised 2.8–12 mm adjustment. The motorised varifocal is a major convenience in deployments where framing may need to be tuned or changed remotely.
- Vs non‑AcuSense models:Cameras without AcuSense or equivalent AI will typically generate more false alarms and require more manual review. AcuSense provides a measurable operational benefit by filtering events and lowering incident review time.
- Vs other brands (e.g. Dahua WizSense, Axis, Bosch):Many competing models offer similar resolution and analytics. Dahua’s WizSense provides comparable human/vehicle detection, while Axis and Bosch often lead on build quality and integration features at higher price points. Hikvision’s value proposition is strong on the balance of features, price and ecosystem compatibility, especially where H.265+ compression and Hikvision VMS or NVRs are already in use.
- Tradeoffs:Higher‑end models from Axis or Bosch may offer better cybersecurity features or certified component lifecycles, while some competitors include built‑in analytics licensing differently. Evaluate total cost of ownership (camera cost, software licensing, support) for large installations.
Customer Feedback and Reviews
While individual reviews vary by installer and use case, common themes among customers and integrators include praise for the DS‑2CD2746G2‑IZS’s image clarity, ease of commissioning thanks to motorised zoom and the practical benefit of AcuSense analytics. Typical feedback includes statements such as:
- "AcuSense cut our false alarm rate substantially—security staff spend less time chasing irrelevant events."
- "Remote zoom saved us from multiple site visits during commissioning and after layout changes."
- "DarkFighter gives surprisingly usable night colour in low light, improving identification without switching to monochrome too early."
Some installers note that firmware and regional SKU differences matter—confirming CE/UKCA compliance, microSD compatibility and local regulatory requirements with your supplier is recommended. Also, as with many networked cameras, customers advise applying strong passwords, secure VLANing and keeping firmware up to date for security.
Conclusion: Why Choose the DS-2CD2746G2-IZS?
The Hikvision DS-2CD2746G2-IZS/BLACK(C) is a compelling choice for commercial and outdoor surveillance deployments that need a balance of image quality, intelligent analytics and durable hardware. Its 4 MP sensor and DarkFighter low‑light tech produce useful imagery across varying lighting conditions, while AcuSense significantly reduces false positives to improve operational efficiency. The motorised 2.8–12 mm varifocal lens simplifies installation and future adjustments, and rugged IP66/IK10 construction ensures resilience in exposed locations.
For projects where reducing alarm fatigue, retaining detailed footage and simplifying commissioning are priorities, this camera offers a strong, cost‑effective option. As always, match the camera to your system architecture, check regional SKUs and compliance, and use secure installation practices to get the best long‑term performance from your surveillance investment.
