The Dahua IPC-HFW7442H-Z4FR is a sophisticated network camera designed for environments requiring precise and reliable intelligent surveillance. It accurately identifies people, vehicles, and non-motorized vehicles, and offers advanced analytics like face recognition and perimeter protection. This camera is ideal for securing perimeters and managing occupancy in various settings.
Key Features
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Accurate People and Vehicle Detection: Distinguishes between humans, vehicles, and non-motor vehicles, significantly reducing false alarms from irrelevant movements.
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Advanced Face Recognition: Identifies individuals by comparing captured faces against a database, useful for access control or security monitoring.
- Intelligent Perimeter Protection: Reduces false alarms in restricted areas by accurately detecting human and vehicle intrusions, tripwires, and loitering.
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Precise People Counting: Tracks and reports the number of people entering, leaving, or present in a defined area, aiding in occupancy management and crowd control.
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Long-Range Infrared Night Vision: Provides clear black and white images up to 120 meters (393.70 feet) in complete darkness, ensuring reliable surveillance around the clock.
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Efficient Video Compression (Smart H.265+/H.264+): Optimizes video storage and transmission costs by delivering high-quality video with reduced file sizes.
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Enhanced Connectivity with ePoE: Enables extended power and data transmission over longer distances using a single Ethernet cable, simplifying installation.
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Robust Weatherproof and Vandal-Resistant Design: Built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and physical impact, ensuring reliable operation in challenging environments.
Perfect For:
- Commercial building perimeters
- Parking lots and garages
- Retail store entrances
- Warehouse and logistics facilities
- Public parks and large open areas
- Educational campuses
Install Tips
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Optimal Mounting Height: For accurate face recognition and people counting, mount the camera at a height that provides a clear, unobstructed view of faces and the target area, typically between 2.5 to 4 meters.
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Utilize ePoE for Long Runs: When installing over long distances (beyond standard PoE limits), leverage the camera's ePoE capability with compatible Dahua switches to reduce cabling complexity and cost.
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Lens Adjustment for Specific Coverage: The motorized vari-focal lens (8mm-32mm) allows for flexible adjustment. Use the wider angle (8mm) for broader area coverage and zoom in (32mm) for detailed long-distance monitoring, such as license plates or specific entry points.
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Pair with WizMind NVR: For full utilization of advanced AI features like intelligent search and centralized management of face databases, integrate this camera with a Dahua WizMind NVR.
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Strategic Placement for Perimeter Protection: For effective perimeter protection, place the camera to cover entry/exit points and critical boundary lines, ensuring the tripwire or intrusion zones are clearly defined within the field of view.
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Consider Anti-Corrosion Coating for Harsh Environments: If installing in coastal areas or locations with high salinity/humidity, opt for the model with NEMA 4X anti-corrosion protection for enhanced durability.
Downloads
Quick-Read Specs
| Feature |
Specification |
| Resolution |
4MP (2688 × 1520) |
| Lens Type |
Motorized Vari-focal (8 mm–32 mm) |
| Night Vision Type |
IR (Infrared) |
| Night Vision Range |
120 m (393.70 ft) |
| AI Features |
Face Recognition, Perimeter Protection, People Counting, Video Metadata, IVS |
| Audio |
1 Input, 1 Output |
| Storage |
Micro SD card (max. 256 GB) |
| Power |
12V DC / 24V AC / PoE+ (802.3at); ePoE |
| Weather Rating |
IP67, IK10 |
| Anti-Corrosion Protection |
NEMA 4X (optional) |
Extra Info
WizMind Deep Learning Algorithms
The DH-IPC-HFW7442H-Z4FR is part of the Dahua WizMind series, which incorporates advanced deep learning algorithms. This means the camera can perform highly accurate analytics, going beyond simple motion detection. It learns to distinguish between different objects (like people, cars, and even non-motorized vehicles), leading to significantly fewer false alarms caused by environmental factors like rain, leaves, or animal movement. This precision is critical for security systems where every alert needs to be actionable and reliable.
Video Metadata for Enhanced Analysis
The Video Metadata function is a powerful tool for forensic analysis. Instead of just recording video, the camera intelligently identifies, tracks, and extracts attributes of targets such as human bodies, faces, motor vehicles, and non-motor vehicles. This includes details like color, type, and even facial expressions. When reviewing footage, this metadata allows for quick and precise searches for specific events or individuals, drastically reducing the time spent sifting through hours of video. It works seamlessly with a compatible management platform to provide actionable insights.
Smart H.265+ & H.264+ for Cost-Effective Storage
Storage and transmission costs can be a significant factor in surveillance systems. This camera utilizes Dahua's Smart H.265+ and H.264+ encoding technologies. These are not just standard compression methods; they employ advanced scene-adaptive rate control algorithms. This means the camera intelligently adjusts the bit rate based on the complexity of the scene, providing high-quality video while minimizing file sizes. For the end-user, this translates directly to lower storage requirements on SD cards or NVRs, and reduced bandwidth consumption for remote viewing.
ePoE for Simplified Long-Distance Deployment
Dahua's ePoE technology is a game-changer for installations requiring extended cable runs. Unlike traditional PoE, which has a limited range, ePoE allows for much longer distances between the IP camera and the network switch using standard Ethernet cabling. This provides greater flexibility in camera placement, especially in large properties or industrial environments, and can significantly reduce the need for additional power sources or costly repeaters, ultimately saving on installation time and overall wiring expenses.
Comprehensive Cyber Security Measures
In an increasingly connected world, cybersecurity is paramount. This Dahua camera is equipped with a robust suite of security technologies to protect your surveillance data. This includes features like security authentication and authorization to prevent unauthorized access, encrypted transmission to secure video streams, and encrypted storage to protect recorded footage. These measures safeguard against malicious programs and ensure the integrity and privacy of your surveillance system, giving users peace of mind.
Cybersecurity Protections
Dahua builds in strong cybersecurity protections including encrypted video streams, secure firmware updates, and access controls. This guards against data breaches or unauthorized remote access — a key consideration for business and home networks alike.
More About AcuPick - Smart Video Search with Precision AI
Dahua’s AcuPick technology revolutionises video surveillance by using advanced AI to pinpoint people or vehicles across recorded footage with remarkable speed and accuracy. Instead of scrubbing through hours of video manually, AcuPick enables users to filter footage by specific targets, drastically cutting down search times and boosting operational efficiency. Integrated into a range of Dahua cameras (including TiOC series) and compatible NVRs, AcuPick delivers a seamless and intelligent search experience.

Highlights of AcuPick:
AI-Driven Precision:
AcuPick leverages intelligent algorithms to differentiate between human and vehicle activity, refining search results to what truly matters.
Smart Filtering:
Search footage using key attributes like clothing colour or vehicle type—no need to know the exact time an incident occurred.
Instant Video Recall:
With just a few clicks, users can zero in on critical moments, improving response times and streamlining investigations.
False Alarm Reduction:
By filtering out irrelevant motion, AcuPick helps reduce nuisance alerts, leading to more reliable monitoring.
Flexible Deployment:
Whether through Dahua's smart cameras or NVR integration, AcuPick fits into a wide range of security setups.
Practical Applications:
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Retail & Offices: Track customer flow or monitor for unauthorized access.
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Car Parks & Garages: Instantly retrieve footage of accidents or suspicious activity.
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Public Spaces: Quickly find persons of interest using visual identifiers.
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Residential Estates: Enhance safety by identifying vehicle movements or visitors.
AcuPick transforms surveillance from reactive monitoring to proactive intelligence, saving time while elevating security across the board.
Q&A
Q: Can this camera record in color at night?
A: No, this camera features advanced IR (Infrared) night vision, which provides clear black and white images in low-light or no-light conditions up to 120 meters. It does not offer full-color night vision.
Q: How loud is the speaker on this camera?
A: The product specifications mention an audio input and output, but it does not specify an integrated speaker or its decibel level for active deterrence. The audio output is primarily for two-way communication if an external speaker is connected.
Q: Does the camera's alarm or intelligent functions activate automatically?
A: Yes, intelligent functions like perimeter protection, people gathering, or abandoned object detection can be configured to trigger alarms automatically when a predefined event occurs. These alarms can include notifications to your management software or mobile app, or trigger external alarm outputs.
Q: Can this camera work with NVRs from other brands?
A: Yes, this camera supports ONVIF (Profile S/Profile G/Profile T), which allows for interoperability with NVRs and VMS (Video Management Software) from other manufacturers that also adhere to the ONVIF standard. However, full functionality of Dahua's advanced AI features (like face recognition database management) may require a compatible Dahua WizMind NVR.
Q: How long can the 256GB SD card record for?
A: The recording duration on a 256GB SD card depends heavily on factors like resolution, frame rate, video compression (Smart H.265+ will extend it significantly), and the amount of motion in the recorded scene. With Smart H.265+, it could potentially store several weeks to a month of motion-triggered recordings, but continuous recording would fill it much faster.
Q: What is the main difference between this WizMind 7 Series camera and other Dahua camera series?
A: The WizMind 7 Series, like this model, is Dahua's project-oriented line that integrates industry-leading deep learning AI algorithms. The key difference is its advanced AI capabilities such as highly accurate face recognition, video metadata extraction, and sophisticated perimeter protection with reduced false alarms, which are more comprehensive and precise than standard or even WizSense series cameras.
Q: Can I access the camera feed and features from my smartphone?
A: Yes, Dahua provides mobile phone applications like DMSS (for iOS and Android) that allow you to view live feeds, access recorded footage, and configure certain camera settings remotely.
Q: Is the anti-corrosion coating standard on all models?
A: The anti-corrosion coating (NEMA 4X protection) is listed as an "optional" feature. You should verify the specific part number you are purchasing to ensure it includes this protection if it's required for your installation environment.
Comparison Table
Camera Model Comparison: Dahua DH-IPC-HFW7442H-Z4FR vs. DH-IPC-HFW7441H-Z4FR
| Category |
Newer Model (DH-IPC-HFW7442H-Z4FR) |
Older Model (DH-IPC-HFW7441H-Z4FR) |
| Model Type |
4MP IR Bullet WizMind Network Camera |
4MP IR Bullet WizMind Network Camera |
| Image Sensor |
1/1.8” 4Megapixel progressive CMOS |
1/1.8” 4Megapixel progressive CMOS |
| Max. Resolution |
2688 (H) × 1520 (V) |
2688 (H) × 1520 (V) |
| Max Frame Rate |
4MP (2688×1520) @50 fps/60 fps |
4MP (2688×1520) @25 fps/30 fps |
| Min. Illumination (Color) |
0.001 Lux@F1.6 (Color, 30IRE) |
0.001 Lux@F1.6 (Color, 30IRE) |
| Min. Illumination (B/W) |
0.0002 Lux@F1.6 (B/W, 30IRE) |
0.0002 Lux@F1.6 (B/W, 30IRE) |
| Illumination Distance (IR) |
120 m (393.70 ft) |
80 m (262.5 ft) |
| WDR |
140 dB |
140 dB |
| Lens Type |
Motorized vari-focal |
Motorized vari-focal |
| Focal Length |
8 mm–32 mm |
8 mm–32 mm |
| Max. Aperture |
F1.6 (Constant) |
F1.6 (Constant) |
| DORI Distances (Tele) |
Detect: 400 m, Observe: 160 m, Recognize: 80 m, Identify: 40 m |
Detect: ~300m, Observe: ~120m, Recognize: ~60m, Identify: ~30m (may vary slightly) |
| AI Features (WizMind) |
People Counting, Video Metadata, Face Recognition (200,000 faces in database), Perimeter Protection (with human/vehicle classification), Smart H.265+/H.264+ |
People Counting, Video Metadata, Face Recognition (similar capabilities, database size may vary), Perimeter Protection (with human/vehicle classification), Smart H.265+/H.264+ |
| Storage |
Micro SD card (max. 256 G), FTP, NAS, SFTP |
Micro SD card (max. 256 G), FTP, NAS, SFTP |
| Audio |
1 in, 1 out |
1 in, 1 out |
| Alarm |
3 in, 2 out |
3 in, 2 out |
| Network Interface |
RJ-45 (10/100/1000 Base-T) |
RJ-45 (10/100/1000 Base-T) |
| ePoE Support |
Yes |
Yes |
| Cyber Security |
Security authentication and authorization, access control, trusted protection, encrypted transmission, encrypted storage |
Similar comprehensive cyber security features |
| Privacy Protection |
Mask detected face and human body |
Mask detected face and human body |
| Power Supply |
12V DC/24V AC/PoE+ (802.3at); ePoE |
12V DC/24V AC/PoE+ (802.3at); ePoE |
| Protection Grade |
IP67, IK10, Anti-Corrosion Protection (optional) |
IP67, IK10 |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) |
340.1 mm × 108.5 mm × 92.9 mm |
Similar physical dimensions for bullet cameras in this series |
Summary Recommendation
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Choose the Newer Model (DH-IPC-HFW7442H-Z4FR) if:
- You require higher frame rates (50/60 fps) at maximum resolution for smoother video and better capture of fast-moving objects.
- Your application demands a longer IR illumination distance (120m vs 80m) for enhanced night vision in expansive areas.
- You need the most up-to-date hardware and software revisions within the WizMind 7 series, potentially offering subtle performance improvements and the latest AI algorithm refinements.
- The slightly improved DORI distances for the newer model are critical for your specific surveillance needs (e.g., needing to recognize subjects at greater distances).
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The Older Model (DH-IPC-HFW7441H-Z4FR) might still be suitable if:
- Your budget is a primary concern, as older models are often available at a lower price point.
- A frame rate of 25/30 fps at 4MP is sufficient for your monitoring requirements.
- An IR illumination distance of 80m is adequate for the environment where the camera will be deployed.
- The core AI features (People Counting, Face Recognition, Perimeter Protection) offered by both models meet your needs, and marginal performance differences in these areas are not critical.
- You are integrating with an existing system where compatibility with the slightly older model might be more straightforward or preferred.