Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per meter for ID vs detectionGrasp lens varieties, focal lengths, and their influence on field of view. Study fixed, varifocal, and motorized lenses, horizontal field of view, and methods to compute pixel density per meter for detection and identification purposes in security setups.
Fixed vs varifocal vs motorized lensesFocal length and angle of view basicsHorizontal FOV vs scene coverageCalculating pixel density per meterID, recognition, and detection targetsLens distortion and edge sharpnessLesson 2Resolution, sensors, and low-light performance: HD/2MP/4MP/4K, WDR, IR, starlight, and noise trade-offsComprehend how resolution, sensor dimensions, and low-light technology impact image sharpness. Explore wide dynamic range, infrared, and starlight features, noise compromises, and matching pixel density with sensitivity to achieve identification and detection aims.
HD, 2MP, 4MP, and 4K use-case mappingSensor size, pixel pitch, and sensitivityTrue WDR vs digital WDR limitationsIR-assisted vs starlight-only imagingNoise, gain, and motion blur trade-offsPixel density targets for ID vs detectLesson 3Day/night operation and IR illumination: IR range, smart IR, white-light deterrents, and glare managementUnderstand camera handling of daytime and nighttime modes, infrared cut filters, and infrared LEDs. Learn about infrared range assertions, intelligent infrared adjustment, white-light deterrent applications, and techniques to lessen glare, blooming, and overexposure during nights.
IR-cut filters and day/night switchingIR range specs vs real-world resultsSmart IR and hotspot controlWhite-light LEDs as active deterrentManaging reflections from walls and glassTuning exposure for night scenesLesson 4Manufacturer features and firmware: ONVIF support, edge analytics, motion detection vs analytics, firmware update practicesExamine manufacturer systems, ONVIF compatibility, and edge analytics. Differentiate basic motion detection from advanced analytics, along with secure firmware update methods and avoiding compatibility issues in Eritrean installations.
ONVIF profiles and interoperabilityBasic motion vs smart video analyticsLine crossing, intrusion, and loiteringSD card edge recording and failoverFirmware update policy and schedulingCybersecurity and hardening basicsLesson 5Compression and streaming: H.264/H.265/H.265+, bitrate control, and impact on storage and networkDiscover how contemporary CCTV compression standards, bitrates, and streaming configurations influence image quality, storage capacity, and network demands. Determine suitable use of H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and adjust settings for dependable, efficient systems.
H.264 vs H.265 vs H.265+ fundamentalsCBR vs VBR and bitrate cap selectionFrame rate, GOP, and latency tuningResolution vs bitrate vs quality trade-offsStorage calculations and retention planningMultistream profiles for NVR and mobileLesson 6PTZ and vari-focus cameras: use cases, presets, patrols, and limitationsInvestigate PTZ and varifocal cameras, their zooming functions, and appropriate applications. Learn presets, patrol routes, and auto-tracking features, plus mechanical constraints, failure possibilities, and scenarios where fixed multi-camera arrangements prove more trustworthy.
Optical zoom vs digital zoom limitsPreset positions, tours, and patrolsAuto-tracking and event-triggered movesControl methods: joystick, client, appMechanical wear, failure, and wind loadWhen to choose PTZ vs fixed coverageLesson 7Fixed dome vs turret vs bullet: optical differences, vandal resistance, indoor/outdoor suitabilityContrast fixed dome, turret, and bullet cameras regarding optics, installation, and sturdiness. Assess vandal resistance, suitability for indoor and outdoor use, and how design influences glare, infrared efficacy, and upkeep in actual projects.
Optical windows and IR reflection issuesVandal resistance and IK rating basicsIndoor vs outdoor placement guidelinesWall, ceiling, and pole mounting optionsGlare, rain, and dirt behavior by styleUse-case examples for each form factorLesson 8Camera housing and ingress protection: IP ratings, IK vandal ratings, and environmental considerationsReview camera enclosures, IP and IK ratings, and environmental boundaries. Select housings for rainfall, dust, vandalism, heat, and cold, and determine when to employ heaters, blowers, or sunshields for sustained reliability.
IP rating codes and test meaningsIK impact ratings and vandal risksTemperature and humidity tolerancesHeaters, blowers, and sunshields useCorrosive or coastal environment issuesCable glands and sealing best practicesLesson 9Power and data interfaces: PoE variants, 12VDC options, power budgets, and PoE+ vs PoE++ selectionAnalyze camera power and data connections, encompassing PoE variations and 12VDC choices. Compute power budgets, select PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and prevent voltage drops, overloads, and cable length issues on location.
PoE standards: 802.3af, at, bt overviewPoE switch power budget calculation12VDC supply sizing and cable lossesMidspans, injectors, and extendersPoE for PTZ, heaters, and IR arraysNetwork cabling classes and limits