by Shane Henson — February 22, 2013—Through the launch of a new series of low-light network cameras, Hikvision Digital Technology Co. hopes to help security professionals better monitor environments that get little to no natural or artificial light.
Hikvision’s X55 series was designed to enable users to achieve impeccable vision of meticulous details in extremely dark environments, says the company. There are four models in the series: the DS-2CD755F-E(I)(Z) indoor dome camera; DS-2CD7255F-E(I)Z(H) outdoor dome camera; DS-2CD855F-E network box camera; and the DS-2CD8255F-EI(Z) bullet camera. Each offers super low-light technology (up to 0.05 lux/f1.2, with AGC on), and boasts a full high-definition output and an industry-leading noise-reduction technology (3D DNR).
The super low-light capability is the hallmark of the X55 series, making the cameras well ahead of their time in technological advancement, says Hikvision. With a minimum illumination of 0.05 lux @ F1.2, these cameras have a level of sensitivity that allows users to discern colors, shapes, sizes, and of course movements in near complete darkness. Coupled with a wide range, the most meticulous details can reportedly be brought to life and captured with extreme clarity.
Each of the models in the series captures images of up to two megapixels and provides full high-definition (HD) 1080p real-time video recording. The DS-2CD8255F-EI(Z) and DS-2CD7255F-E(I)Z(H) both incorporate a weatherproof rating of IP66 and operate effectively in a wide range of weather conditions, including a temperature range of -10°C to 60°C (14°F to 140°F) and humidity of up to 90 percent, the company says.
These cameras can be incorporated into a larger networked surveillance system where alarms are triggered automatically in the event of a security breach, adds the company. Among the many networking features, network connection errors and Internet protocol (IP) address conflict alerts allow users to quickly resolve potential networking issues to ensure the maximum uptime in the system.