Lesson 1Network vs Analog Systems: NVR vs DVR Setups and Mixed OptionsUnderstand the difference between analog and IP CCTV, including DVR, NVR, and mixed setups. Learn ways to change over, how cabling affect things, and when to keep old coax or go full network video.
Analog HD formats over coaxIP camera and NVR topologiesHybrid DVR and encoder optionsBandwidth and cabling implicationsMigration from DVR to full IPLesson 2Recorders and Storage: Sizing NVR, RAID Choices, Keeping Time Calculations, Write Strength and HDD PickingUnderstand how to size NVRs for channel number, bitrate, and keeping time. Compare RAID levels, HDD kinds, and write strength, and calculate storage for different clearness and frame speeds.
Bitrate estimation per camera streamRetention and storage sizing formulasRAID 0, 1, 5, 6, and 10 trade-offsSurveillance-grade HDD vs desktop HDDWrite endurance and workload ratingsLesson 3Kinds of CCTV Cameras (Fixed, Varifocal, PTZ, Dome, Bullet) and Their UsesCompare fixed, varifocal, PTZ, dome, and bullet cameras and their best uses. Learn how shape, place, and danger level affect camera pick, scaring off, and standing against damage.
Fixed lens cameras for simple scenesVarifocal lenses for flexible framingPTZ cameras for active monitoringDome vs bullet form factor selectionVandal-resistant and covert optionsLesson 4Sensor Sizes, Clearness, Frame Speeds, and Low-Light Work (1/2.8", 2MP, 4MP, 4K, WDR, IR Reach)Look into how sensor size, clearness, and frame speed affect picture good and bandwidth. Learn low-light ideas like WDR, IR reach, and noise, and how to balance detail with storage and network limits.
Common sensor sizes and crop factors2MP, 4MP, 4K resolution pros and consFrame rate vs motion blur and storageTrue WDR vs digital WDR techniquesIR illumination range and limitationsLesson 5Picking Real Models: Reading Datasheets, Seller Trust, Warranty and Help ThinkingBuild skills to read camera and NVR datasheets, compare true work, and dodge seller tricks. Check seller trust, software help, warranties, and return ways when picking models.
Key specs that truly affect performanceReading sensitivity and lux ratingsVerifying bitrate and codec claimsVendor firmware and security historyWarranty terms and RMA proceduresLesson 6Network Switches and PoE: PoE Rules (802.3af/at/bt), Budget Math, Managed vs Simple SwitchesLearn PoE rules, power budgets, and switch pick for CCTV networks. Compare managed and simple switches, port numbers, link strength, and backup choices for sure camera connect.
802.3af, 802.3at, 802.3bt power levelsCalculating PoE power budgetsPoE switch vs midspan injectorsManaged vs unmanaged switch featuresUplink capacity and oversubscriptionLesson 7Camera Features: PoE, ONVIF Match, Motion Spot, Audio, Tamper SpotCheck key camera features that affect joining and use, like PoE, ONVIF, motion spot, audio, and tamper alerts. Learn when each feature needful, extra, or no need for project.
PoE classes and power draw per cameraONVIF profiles and interoperabilityMotion detection and smart analyticsAudio input, output, and legal issuesTamper detection and event handlingLesson 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 guard. Learn weather proof ways for sure outside work.
Wall, pole, and corner mount choicesOutdoor housings and sunshieldsCable glands and strain reliefSurge protectors and groundingWeatherproofing seals and ratingsLesson 9Power Supplies and Backup for CCTV: DC Injectors, Main Power Supplies, UPS Sizing for Recorders and Network GearStudy power choices for cameras and recorders, like DC supplies, PoE injectors, and UPS systems. Learn to size UPS power and plan backup to keep recording when power cut.
Centralized vs local power suppliesDC distribution and voltage dropPoE injectors and midspan designUPS sizing for NVRs and switchesRedundant power and failover plansLesson 10Lens Pick, View Area, and Focal Length Math for Given Cover SpotsLearn how focal length, sensor size, and lens kind affect view area and target detail. Practice cover planning, angle pick, and basic lens math to meet know, see, or overview needs.
Fixed vs varifocal lens characteristicsFocal length, FoV, and distance relationsSensor size impact on coverage widthCalculating pixels per foot or meterSelecting lenses for entrances and gates