ColorVu AI CCTV Installation FAQs

What does ColorVu actually do?

ColorVu uses a large-aperture F1.0 lens and an enhanced image sensor to capture full-colour video in near-darkness, where a traditional CCTV camera would have switched to black-and-white infrared mode. The result is clear, colour, daytime-looking footage at night — clothing colour, vehicle colour, skin tone, and identification detail that monochrome infrared cannot produce.

Does ColorVu need any external lighting?

ColorVu cameras work in much lower light than traditional cameras using only ambient light (street lights, security lights, moonlight). For total darkness or to enhance colour rendering at the worst light levels, the cameras also include a built-in supplementary white light that can be triggered manually, automatically, or as part of the active deterrent feature.

What is the active light-and-audio deterrent?

When the camera detects an intruder via AcuSense AI, it can automatically trigger a built-in warning light and audible alert (a customisable siren or recorded warning message). This often deters intruders before they reach the property, and provides real-time response without requiring an armed-response company callout. Configurable per camera based on what each position needs.

What is the difference between ColorVu and AcuSense?

AcuSense is the AI detection technology — smart filtering of human and vehicle events. ColorVu is the imaging technology — full-colour video in near-darkness. Our ColorVu packages include both: AcuSense AI for smart alerts plus ColorVu for colour-at-night imaging, in the same cameras. Our AcuSense specials include AI detection only, using traditional infrared night vision.

Does the 4MP model really have a microphone?

Yes. The Hikvision DS-2CD2047G3-LI2UY 4MP ColorVu camera has a built-in microphone for audio recording — useful for property entrances, reception areas and any position where audio context adds to incident review. The 8MP DS-2CD2087G3-LIY model does not include a microphone; the engineering trade-off prioritises imaging detail at the higher resolution.

4MP or 8MP — which should I choose?

4MP is sufficient for most residential and small-business positions where camera-to-target distance is moderate and the built-in microphone adds value. 8MP / 4K is the right choice for larger properties with longer sight lines, where maximum detail when digitally zooming during incident playback matters more than audio recording.

Can I view the cameras on my phone?

Yes. The Hikvision Hik-Connect mobile app is configured during installation. You receive AcuSense push alerts on detection events and can view live and recorded colour footage from anywhere with internet.

Can I use my existing analogue coax cables?

No. IP cameras require category-5e network cable rather than RG59 coax. For upgrades on existing coax, the Turbo HD installation specials are designed exactly for that scenario.

How long can the system record for?

The 2TB hard drive provides roughly 2 to 3 weeks of continuous recording at 4MP, or 5 to 10 days at 8MP. Longer retention is available with a 4TB or 6TB drive upgrade at additional cost — recommended for 8MP installations or where a full month of footage history is wanted.

Can I upgrade the system later?

Yes. The included DS-7608NXI-K2 is an 8-channel NVR, which means 3, 5, or 7 camera packages can be expanded by adding cameras up to the channel limit. Larger hard drives, additional cameras, or upgrades to next-generation AcuSeek NVRs are all available paths.

Is installation included?

Yes. The package prices include standard installation with 25m of cat5e cable per camera, junction boxes, cable trunking, NVR and PoE switch installation, AcuSense detection-zone configuration, ColorVu image tuning, active deterrent setup, and Hik-Connect mobile app configuration.