Hikvision DS-2DF8223I-A(AEL) is the world's first 1080P Full HD ultra low illumination network PTZ that delivers full colour images in conditions the company says would defeat conventional monochrome IP cameras and competing low-light cameras.

HIKVISION’S DS-2DF8223I-A(AEL) Darkfighter PTZ is employs the company’s ultra-low-light MP lens and is designed specifically to capture sharp color and monochrome images in extreme, low-light conditions. The result is claimed to be colour images down to 0.0005Lux and the delivery of full colour images in conditions that would defeat conventional monochrome IP cameras and competing low-light cameras. 

The DarkFighter camera features a massive 2MP, 1.9-inch high definition progressive scan CMOS image sensor. Together with a 120 dB WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) and Hikvision's 3D DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) technology, the camera is capable of streaming video in full 1080p HD, with 23X optical zoom.

Hikvision Darkfighter wide angle…

…and now zoomed – impressive, isn't it?

The camera features a wide range of Smart detection features, including Face Detection, Intrusion Detection, Line Crossing Detection and Audio Exception. These features, combine with an IR distance of up to 200 metres, defog ability; Smart Tracking and Electronic Image Stabilisation.

MPEG4, MJPEG and H.264 video compression formats are supported and the camera features multiple H.264 compression profiles, allowing users to optimize bandwidth and storage without compromising image quality. With support for ONVIF, PSIA, and CGI standards, the new camera also offers quick and easy integration with other video surveillance equipment and systems.

Hikvision’s DarkFighter is also protected by an IP66 rating against rain and dust, making it the perfect candidate for deployment in challenging outdoor environments both day and night.

While SEN has not seen the new Darkfighter PTZ in operation, the word from the Tony Lagan at Hikvision Australia is that performance is awesome and he says the new camera has blown away audiences at recent demonstrations. 

“The secret to the  'DarkFighter' PTZ’s incredible performance is the large 2-megapixel, 1/1.9 inch high definition progressive scan CMOS image sensor,” explains Lagan. “This large imager captures much more available light and is the secret to this cameras awesome performance. Together with a 120 dB WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) and Hikvision’s 3D DNR (Digital Noise Reduction) technology, the camera is capable of streaming video in full 1080p HD and has a huge focal range thanks to its 6-136mm lens, enabling number plates to be read from hundreds of metres away.”

Hikvision Darkfighter PTZ at night – that intersection is more than 200m from the lens.

Importantly, SEN has just reviewed the Darkfighter fixed camera and we found it to be a strong performer, not just in low light but in ridiculous levels of backlight. Down to 6 lux we found Darkfighter certainly needed no additional illumination and gave us face recognition at closer ranges and excellent situation awareness in street surveillance. If the PTZ version mirrors these capabilities, it will be a strong contender and we’re keen to hear about price, too. 

The camera has also just been nominated as a finalist in the category of CCTV Camera of the Year at IFSEC in London. 

"We are very pleased to see the DarkFighter camera's ultra-low light sensitivity and Hikvision’s Smart detection technologies rewarded with this nomination,” says Keen Yao, international marketing director at Hikvision. 

“Competition for these industry-leading awards was very fierce this year with a record number of entries received and our being shortlisted as a finalist is a testament both to the outstanding qualities of the DarkFighter camera and to the innovative approach Hikvision takes to the global CCTV surveillance market." ♦