The Dahua DH-IPC-HFW3541E-AS is a 5MP bullet-style security camera built to deliver reliable AI detection and clear imaging in low-light environments. Designed for permanent fixed-angle installations, it supports advanced smart motion filtering, onboard storage, and weatherproof protection — ideal for straightforward, dependable perimeter monitoring.
Key Features
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AI Human/Vehicle Classification – Reduces false alarms by intelligently detecting only people and cars.
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Fixed-Focal Lens Options – Choose from 2.8mm, 3.6mm, or 6mm for wide to narrow views based on your scene.
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Starlight Low-Light Imaging – Delivers improved color image quality even at night before IR kicks in.
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50m IR Night Vision – Strong infrared performance for clear footage in complete darkness.
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Built-in Mic & Audio I/O – Captures ambient sound and supports audio input/output via RCA.
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Smart H.265+ Compression – Efficient video compression saves storage while preserving clarity.
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IP67 Weatherproof Metal Housing – Tough enough for harsh outdoor installs.
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microSD Recording – Supports local recording up to 256GB without needing an NVR.

Perfect For:
- Building entrances
- Retail storefronts
- Outdoor corridors
- Industrial facility perimeters
- Office or school grounds
- Residential front gates
Install Tips
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Select lens based on distance – 2.8mm for wide coverage (doorways), 6mm for focused views (driveways).
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Use PoE to minimize cabling – Simplifies wiring and installation.
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Enable built-in mic in software settings to record audio.
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Mount height between 2.5–4m to optimize AI detection accuracy.
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Use microSD for standalone recording in remote or off-grid installs.
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Ensure tight weather seal when using in exposed locations.
Downloads
Quick-Read Specs Card
| Feature |
Details |
| Resolution |
5MP (2592 × 1944) |
| Lens Options |
2.8mm / 3.6mm / 6mm fixed |
| Night Vision |
IR up to 50m |
| Deterrence |
No siren or light strobe |
| AI Features |
SMD Plus, Tripwire, Intrusion |
| Audio |
Built-in Mic + RCA audio in/out |
| Storage |
Up to 256GB microSD |
| Power |
12VDC / PoE (802.3af) |
| Weather Rating |
IP67 |
Extra Info
Smart Motion Detection (SMD Plus)
This camera is equipped with Dahua’s SMD Plus technology, which uses artificial intelligence to distinguish between humans, vehicles, and irrelevant motion. Unlike traditional motion detection that reacts to any movement, SMD Plus intelligently filters out distractions such as swaying branches, rain, pets, or passing shadows. The result is significantly fewer false alarms, allowing for more focused monitoring and efficient security response.
Starlight Performance in Low-Light Scenes
Designed for superior low-light performance, Dahua’s Starlight technology enables the camera to capture vivid, full-color images even in dim lighting conditions. This reduces the dependency on infrared lighting and allows operators to identify clothing colors, vehicle types, and other critical visual details earlier in the evening — before the scene becomes fully dark.
Perimeter Protection Intelligence
Using deep-learning algorithms, the camera enhances perimeter security with AI-powered tripwire and intrusion detection. These rules are activated only when a person or vehicle crosses a virtual boundary or enters a restricted area. This minimizes nuisance alerts and boosts the accuracy of real-time notifications, making it especially effective for high-priority zones like property lines, loading bays, school grounds, and building entrances.
High-Efficiency Storage with Smart Codec (H.265+/H.264+)
The camera features Smart Codec technology that optimizes video compression based on real-time scene complexity and motion activity. By reducing unnecessary data from low-motion or static scenes, it significantly decreases file sizes — saving up to 70% in storage and bandwidth compared to standard codecs. This is ideal for continuous 24/7 recording environments with storage limitations or remote cloud uploads.
Cybersecure by Design
Built with cybersecurity in mind, this camera includes a suite of protective features such as HTTPS encryption, digest authentication, firmware signing, and security logs. These defenses help prevent unauthorized access, tampering, and data breaches — aligning with modern data protection standards and making the camera a safe choice for sensitive or regulated installations.
The DH-IPC-HFW3541E-AS does not feature onboard AcuPick, but it does support AI metadata generation (like person/vehicle detection via SMD Plus). When paired with a compatible Dahua AI NVR, this metadata can be used to enable AcuPick—Dahua’s intelligent search tool that quickly filters and finds key footage events.
Benefits with Compatible NVR:
- Filter recordings based on human or vehicle detection
- Search by appearance details (e.g., color or vehicle type)
- Jump directly to critical moments
- Avoid watching hours of irrelevant footage
Q&A
Q: Does this camera support audio recording?
A: Yes, it has a built-in microphone and supports external RCA audio in/out.
Q: Is this good for low-light areas?
A: Yes, the Starlight feature enhances low-light image quality even before IR activates.
Q: Can I use this without an NVR?
A: Yes, it supports microSD recording up to 256GB and can upload footage to FTP or NAS.
Q: What are the lens options?
A: 2.8mm for wide scenes, 3.6mm for standard views, and 6mm for distant/narrow scenes.
Q: How far does the night vision reach?
A: Up to 50 meters with built-in IR LEDs.
Q: Is this camera weatherproof?
A: Yes, it’s rated IP67 for outdoor use in rain, dust, and extreme temperatures.
Q: Can I receive motion alerts?
A: Yes, and SMD Plus helps filter irrelevant motion to focus only on people and vehicles.
Q: Will this work with third-party NVRs?
A: Yes, it supports ONVIF for cross-brand compatibility.