Hikvision DS-2CD2387G3-LI2UY(Black) | 8MP Smart Hybrid Light ColorVu Turret | 2.8mm, Mic & Anti-Corrosion

FAQs

What are the advantages of a turret camera over a bullet camera?

Turret cameras offer several practical advantages over bullet designs. The compact, low-profile form factor is less obtrusive and more aesthetically pleasing, particularly important for retail, hospitality, or modern office environments. The vandal-resistant housing with no protruding elements makes tampering more difficult compared to bullet cameras with external housings. Cable management is simpler as connections route through the mounting base rather than externally. The 3-axis adjustment mechanism allows precise positioning after installation without repositioning the entire mount. Turret cameras also typically handle close-range viewing better, making them ideal for entrances, corridors, and areas where the camera may need to monitor directly below its mounting position.

Why choose the black finish over the standard white version?

The black finish DS-2CD2387G3-LI2UY(BLACK) provides enhanced aesthetic integration in modern architectural environments with dark soffits, black ceilings, or contemporary design schemes. Black cameras are less visually prominent against dark backgrounds, creating a more discreet surveillance presence whilst maintaining the same technical performance as white versions. This is particularly valued in high-end retail, corporate offices, restaurants, hotels, and residential properties where visual discretion is prioritized. The black finish also reduces visual contrast against dark mounting surfaces, making the camera less noticeable whilst still providing a visible deterrent when needed.

How does the 30m illumination range compare to the bullet model’s 40m?

The turret model’s 30m supplement light range versus the bullet’s 40m reflects the different form factor and intended applications. Turret cameras are typically deployed in closer-range scenarios like building entrances, corridors, reception areas, car park sections, and perimeter zones where 30 metres provides adequate coverage. The reduced illumination distance allows for a more compact housing design and lower power consumption (8.5W vs 5.4W DC). For applications requiring extended range beyond 30 metres, such as large open car parks or perimeter sections, the bullet model with 40m range would be more appropriate. Most professional turret installations prioritize wide-area coverage over extreme distance, making 30m entirely suitable.

What does the 3-axis adjustment mechanism enable?

The 3-axis adjustment provides exceptional installation flexibility: Pan adjustment (0-360°) allows horizontal rotation in any direction; tilt adjustment (0-75°) enables angling from horizontal to near-vertical for covering areas directly below; rotate adjustment (0-360°) allows image rotation to correct horizon alignment. This means installers can mount the camera base in the most convenient position, then precisely adjust the camera angle without repositioning the mount. The tilt range to 75° (versus 90° on bullets) is entirely adequate for turret applications as these cameras rarely need to point straight down. This adjustment flexibility significantly speeds installation whilst ensuring optimal coverage of the monitored area.

Is the turret housing truly vandal-resistant?

Yes, the all-metal construction (both cover and main body) with smooth, rounded turret design provides genuine vandal resistance. Unlike bullet cameras with protruding housings that can be grabbed or struck, the turret’s low-profile design offers minimal grip points for tampering. The dome lens cover is flush-mounted within the housing, making it difficult to access without tools. The camera weighs 750g with robust metal construction that resists impact. Whilst not IK-rated for extreme vandalism like some dedicated vandal-resistant models, the turret design inherently discourages tampering through its form factor. For applications requiring maximum vandal protection, the turret design provides significantly better resistance than bullet cameras whilst maintaining professional image quality and features.

How does cable management differ from bullet cameras?

Turret cameras offer superior cable management compared to bullet designs. All connections (network, power) route through the mounting base and can be concealed within the wall, ceiling void, or junction box before the camera body is attached. This creates a cleaner, more professional appearance with no external cables visible. Bullet cameras require cables to route into the camera body, often necessitating external cable glands or junction boxes that can appear untidy. The turret’s base-mounting approach also simplifies maintenance – the camera body can be removed for service without disturbing cable connections. This cable routing method is particularly valued in aesthetic-conscious environments where visible cabling would detract from the installation’s professional appearance.

Can this camera be ceiling-mounted effectively?

Absolutely. The turret design excels at ceiling mounting, which is one of its primary advantages over bullet cameras. The 75° tilt range combined with 360° pan and rotate adjustments allows the camera to cover areas directly below and in all directions from a ceiling position. The compact Ø138.3mm × 115.4mm dimensions and 750g weight make it suitable for suspended ceiling installations without requiring heavy-duty mounting hardware. Various optional mounting accessories support ceiling applications including pendant mounts (DS-1271ZJ-140), junction boxes (DS-1280ZJ-PT6), and wall mounts that can be inverted for ceiling use. The discreet turret profile is less obtrusive on ceilings than bullet cameras, particularly important in commercial environments with open ceilings.

What’s the difference between DS-2CD2387G3-LI2UY and DS-2CD2387G3-LIY?

The key distinction is the “2U” designation. The DS-2CD2387G3-LI2UY includes an arrayed dual-microphone system for audio monitoring with environmental noise filtering, whilst the DS-2CD2387G3-LIY model without “2U” has no built-in microphones. All other specifications – including ColorVu 3.0, Smart Hybrid Light, AcuSense AI, video performance, turret form factor, and environmental ratings – remain identical between models. Both are available in white or black finish. Choose the 2U version if audio monitoring, two-way communication, or audio-triggered alerts are required for your security application. The non-2U version offers cost savings when audio functionality isn’t needed.

How does power consumption compare to the bullet equivalent?

The turret model consumes maximum 8.5W via 12V DC or 11W via PoE (IEEE 802.3af Class 3), compared to the bullet’s 5.4W/7W respectively. This higher power consumption reflects the turret’s different housing design, heating characteristics, and illuminator configuration. The 11W PoE requirement ensures the camera operates reliably within standard PoE switch capabilities whilst maintaining all features including Smart Hybrid Light. Despite the higher consumption, the turret remains energy-efficient and well within typical PoE budget constraints. For installations with limited power availability, the bullet model’s lower consumption may be preferable, but most modern PoE infrastructure easily accommodates the turret’s 11W requirement across multiple cameras.