Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per metre for ID vs detectionGrasp lens types, focal lengths, and their impact on field of view. Learn about fixed, varifocal, and motorised lenses, horizontal FOV, and calculating pixel density per metre for detection and identification purposes.
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-offsUnderstand how resolution, sensor size, and low-light technology influence image clarity. Learn WDR, IR, and starlight features, noise trade-offs, and matching pixel density and sensitivity to identification and detection needs.
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 manage day and night modes, IR cut filters, and IR LEDs. Understand IR range specifications, smart IR adjustments, white-light deterrent applications, and reducing glare, blooming, and overexposure during night-time operations.
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 compatibility, and edge analytics. Learn the differences between basic motion detection and advanced analytics, along with safe firmware update methods and avoiding compatibility issues.
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 influence image quality, storage needs, and network load. Understand when to apply H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and how to adjust 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 functions, and suitable applications. Learn about presets, tours, and auto-tracking, plus mechanical constraints, failure risks, and when fixed multi-camera setups are more dependable.
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 in terms of optics, mounting, and durability. Understand vandal resistance, suitability for indoor and outdoor use, and how form factor impacts glare, IR performance, and maintenance 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 considerationsExamine camera housings, IP and IK ratings, and environmental tolerances. Learn to choose enclosures for rain, dust, vandalism, heat, and cold, and when to use heaters, blowers, or sunshields for lasting 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 to calculate power budgets, select PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and prevent voltage drop, overload, and 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