Lesson 1Network vs Analogue Systems: NVR vs DVR Setups and Mixed ChoicesGet the differences between analogue and IP CCTV, including DVR, NVR, and mixed setups. Learn ways to switch over, how cabling affects things, and when to stick with old coax or go full network video.
Analogue HD over coax cablesIP camera and NVR setupsMixed DVR and encoder choicesBandwidth and cabling effectsSwitching from DVR to full IPLesson 2Recorders and Storage: Sizing NVRs, RAID Choices, Keeping Time Calculations, Hard Drive Endurance and Picking ThemLearn to size NVRs for number of channels, data speed, and how long to keep footage. Compare RAID types, hard drive kinds, and endurance, and work out storage for different picture sizes and speeds.
Data speed guess per camera feedKeeping time and storage size formulasRAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 pros and consSurveillance hard drives vs regular onesEndurance and work load ratingsLesson 3Types of CCTV Cameras (Fixed, Adjustable Lens, PTZ, Dome, Bullet) and Their UsesCompare fixed, adjustable lens, PTZ, dome, and bullet cameras and best places for them. Learn how shape, weather, and risk level guide your pick, for scaring off thieves and standing up to damage.
Fixed lens for easy spotsAdjustable lenses for flexible viewsPTZ for active watchingDome vs bullet shape picksDamage-proof and hidden choicesLesson 4Sensor Sizes, Picture Clarity, Speed Rates, and Night Performance (1/2.8", 2MP, 4MP, 4K, WDR, IR Reach)See how sensor size, clarity, and speed affect picture quality and data use. Learn night ideas like WDR, IR reach, and noise, and balance details with storage and network limits.
Common sensor sizes and crop effects2MP, 4MP, 4K clarity good and badSpeed rate vs blur and storageReal WDR vs digital waysIR light reach and limitsLesson 5Picking Real Models: Reading Spec Sheets, Company Trust, Warranty and Help ChoicesBuild skills to read camera and NVR spec sheets, compare true work, and dodge sales tricks. Check company trust, software help, warranties, and return ways when picking models.
Key specs that really matterReading light sensitivity and lux numbersChecking data speed and code claimsCompany software and safety pastWarranty rules and return stepsLesson 6Network Switches and PoE: PoE Rules (802.3af/at/bt), Power Budgets, Managed vs Simple SwitchesLearn PoE rules, power plans, and switch picks for CCTV networks. Compare managed and simple switches, port numbers, link strength, and backup ways for steady camera links.
802.3af, 802.3at, 802.3bt power levelsWorking out PoE power plansPoE switch vs middle power addersManaged vs simple switch featuresLink strength and overload risksLesson 7Camera Features: PoE, ONVIF Fit, Motion Spotting, Sound, Tamper SpottingCheck key camera features for joining and use, like PoE, ONVIF, motion spot, sound, and tamper alerts. Learn when each is needed, extra, or not for a job.
PoE types and power use per cameraONVIF types and join fitMotion spot and smart checksSound in, out, and law mattersTamper spot and event waysLesson 8Extra Parts Pick: Mounts, Covers, Sun Shields, Cable Seals, Surge Guards, and Weather Proof for Outside UnitsCheck extras that guard and steady CCTV setups, like mounts, covers, sun shields, seals, and surge guards. Learn weather proof ways for steady outside work.
Wall, pole, corner mount picksOutside covers and sun shieldsCable seals and pull reliefSurge guards and earth linksWeather seals and ratingsLesson 9Power Supplies and Backup for CCTV: DC Adders, Central Power, UPS Sizing for Recorders and Network GearStudy power choices for cameras and recorders, like DC supplies, PoE adders, and UPS. Learn to size UPS power and plan backup to keep recording in power cuts.
Central vs local power suppliesDC spread and voltage fallPoE adders and middle plansUPS sizing for NVRs and switchesBackup power and switch plansLesson 10Lens Pick, View Area, and Focal Length Math for Set Cover SpotsLearn how focal length, sensor size, and lens type affect view area and target details. Practice cover plans, angle picks, and basic lens math for ID, spot, or full view needs.
Fixed vs adjustable lens traitsFocal length, view area, distance linksSensor size on cover widthMath pixels per foot or meterLens picks for doors and gates
