Hikvision 8 MP Smart Hybrid Light with ColorVu Motorized Varifocal Dome Network Camera

Hikvision 8 MP Smart Hybrid Light with ColorVu Motorized Varifocal Dome Network Camera

This model is a sophisticated all-in-one solution designed for high-quality 24/7 color video, flexible installation, and proactive deterrence, all packaged in a discreet dome form factor.

Core Product Identification

• Common Model Name: Hikvision ColorVu Motorized Varifocal Dome with Smart Hybrid Light & Audio.

• Example Model Number: DS-2CD2387G2-LU

  • *(Note: The “23” often indicates a 3-series dome form factor, “87” denotes 8MP with ColorVu and AcuSense, and “G2-LU” signifies the 2nd generation with Smart Hybrid Light and upgraded features).*

• Key Features: 8MP Resolution, ColorVu Technology, Smart Hybrid Light (ColorVu White Light + IR), Motorized Varifocal Lens, Built-in Microphone & Speaker, AcuSense, Dome Form Factor.

1. Detailed Technical Specifications

2. In-Depth Feature Explanation

ColorVu Technology: 24/7 Full Color

• What it is: The core feature that provides full-color video in near-total darkness. It relies on a large-aperture lens (F1.0) and a high-sensitivity sensor to capture more ambient light.

• Benefit: Provides superior evidence with identifiable details like clothing color, vehicle color, and facial features, 24 hours a day.

Smart Hybrid Light: The Best of Both Worlds

• What it is: This is a key differentiator. The camera contains two sets of lights:

  1. Warm White LEDs: These provide subtle, constant illumination for the ColorVu technology at night. The light is less harsh and intrusive than cool white light.

  2. Infrared (IR) LEDs: These provide invisible illumination for traditional black-and-white night vision.

• Benefit: You have the choice.

  • Use White Light for full-color evidence and as a visual deterrent.

  • Use IR Light for discreet, non-intrusive monitoring where light pollution is a concern.

  • You can configure the camera to switch to IR mode if you do not want the white light on constantly.

Motorized Varifocal Lens: Installation Flexibility

• What it is: A lens whose focal length (zoom level) and focus can be adjusted remotely through the camera’s software or mobile app.

• Benefit: This is a massive advantage for installation.

  1. Ease of Installation: Mount the camera roughly in place without needing to manually adjust the lens ring.

  2. Perfect Framing: From your phone or computer, you can zoom in and out to get the perfect field of view, ensuring you cover the exact area you need.

  3. Future-Proofing: If your monitoring needs change, you can re-adjust the zoom without needing a ladder.

AcuSense & Audio: Intelligent Alerts and Deterrence

• AcuSense: Reduces false alarms by filtering out non-relevant motion, ensuring you are only alerted to human and vehicle activity.

• Built-in Microphone & Speaker: Allows for:

  • Two-way audio: Communicate with someone at the camera.

  • Audible Deterrence: Play pre-recorded warnings (e.g., “You are being recorded”) when AcuSense detects an intruder.

Dome Form Factor

• Pros: More discreet and aesthetically pleasing than a bullet camera. The smoked dome makes it difficult for intruders to tell which way the camera is pointing. It is also vandal-resistant (IK10).

• Cons: The dome can be prone to reflection/glare from internal lights if not positioned carefully. Dust or spider webs can be more noticeable on the dome surface compared to a bullet camera.

3. Ideal Use Cases & Applications

This camera is extremely versatile and suits a wide range of applications:

• Residential Entries & Driveways: The discreet dome looks good on a home, and the motorized zoom allows for perfect coverage of a porch or driveway.

• Retail Stores & Lobbies: The aesthetic design blends into commercial environments, and the 24/7 color video is perfect for identifying shoplifters.

• Hotel Hallways & Corridors: The vandal-resistant dome can withstand misuse, and the white light is not overly intrusive in semi-indoor areas.

• Parking Garages & Perimeter Walls: The ability to zoom in on specific areas (like a gate or parking spot) after installation is a major benefit.

• Anywhere requiring flexible field-of-view: Where the exact viewing angle is difficult to determine before mounting.

4. Pros and Cons

Comparison with the Bullet Camera (from previous question)

The Hikvision 8 MP Smart Hybrid Light with ColorVu Motorized Varifocal Dome is a premium, feature-packed camera designed for users who need the ultimate in flexibility, image quality, and intelligent features. Its ability to provide 24/7 color video, switch between white light and IR, and be perfectly framed after installation makes it one of the most versatile and powerful cameras in Hikvision’s lineup for both residential and commercial use.