Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per metre for ID vs detectionUnderstand lens types, focal lengths, and how they shape field of view. Learn fixed, varifocal, and motorised lenses, horizontal FOV, and how to calculate pixel density per metre for detection and identification.
Fixed vs varifocal vs motorised lensesFocal length and angle of view basicsHorizontal FOV vs scene coverageCalculating pixel density per metreID, recognition, and detection targetsLens distortion and edge sharpnessLesson 2Resolution, sensors, and low-light performance: HD/2MP/4MP/4K, WDR, IR, starlight, and noise trade-offsUnderstand how resolution, sensor size, and low-light tech affect image clarity. Learn WDR, IR, and starlight concepts, noise trade-offs, and how to match pixel density and sensitivity to identification and detection goals.
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 managementLearn how cameras handle day and night modes, IR cut filters, and IR LEDs. Understand IR range claims, smart IR tuning, white-light deterrent use, and how to reduce glare, blooming, and overexposure at night.
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 practicesReview manufacturer ecosystems, ONVIF support, and edge analytics. Learn differences between simple motion detection and advanced analytics, plus safe firmware update practices and how to avoid compatibility surprises.
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 networkLearn how modern CCTV codecs, bitrates, and streaming profiles affect image quality, storage sizing, and network load. Understand when to use H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and how to tune settings for stable, 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 limitationsExplore PTZ and varifocal cameras, their zoom capabilities, and ideal use cases. Learn about presets, tours, and auto-tracking, plus mechanical limits, failure risks, and when a fixed multi-camera layout is more reliable.
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 suitabilityCompare fixed dome, turret, and bullet cameras by optics, mounting, and durability. Understand vandal resistance, indoor and outdoor suitability, and how form factor affects glare, IR performance, and maintenance in real projects.
Optical windows and IR reflection issuesVandal resistance and IK rating basicsIndoor vs outdoor placement guidelinesWall, ceiling, and pole mounting optionsGlare, rain, and dirt behaviour by styleUse-case examples for each form factorLesson 8Camera housing and ingress protection: IP ratings, IK vandal ratings, and environmental considerationsExamine camera housings, IP and IK ratings, and environmental limits. Learn to select enclosures for rain, dust, vandalism, heat, and cold, and when to use heaters, blowers, or sunshields for long-term 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++ selectionStudy camera power and data options, including PoE variants and 12VDC. Learn how to calculate power budgets, choose PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and avoid voltage drop, overload, and cable length problems on site.
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
