Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per metre for ID vs detectionGet lens types, focal lengths, and how they affect field of view. Learn fixed, varifocal, and motorised lenses, horizontal FOV, and how to work out pixel density per metre for spotting and identifying.
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-offsSee how resolution, sensor size, and night tech affect picture clarity. Learn WDR, IR, and starlight ideas, noise issues, and how to match pixels and sensitivity for spotting and identifying targets.
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 switch day to night, IR cut filters, and IR lights. Understand IR distance claims, smart IR adjust, white-light scare tactics, and how to cut glare, blooming, and bright spots 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 practicesCheck brand setups, ONVIF links, and edge smarts. Learn simple motion spotting vs advanced analysis, safe firmware updates, and how to dodge mix-up 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 new CCTV codes, bitrates, and streams affect picture quality, storage size, and network load. Know when to use H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and tune settings for steady, efficient setups.
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 limitationsLook at PTZ and varifocal cameras, zoom power, and best uses. Learn presets, tours, auto-track, plus moving part limits, breakdown risks, and when fixed multi-camera works better.
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 on optics, fitting, and toughness. Know vandal proofing, inside/outside fit, and how shape affects glare, IR work, and upkeep on jobs.
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 considerationsCheck camera boxes, IP and IK ratings, and weather limits. Pick covers for rain, dust, bangs, heat, cold, and when to add heaters, fans, or shades for lasting strength.
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 choices, PoE types and 12VDC. Work out power needs, pick PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and avoid voltage drop, overload, cable length issues 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
