Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per meter for ID vs detectionGet to know lens kinds, focal lengths, and how they make the view area. Learn fixed, varifocal, and moving lenses, side view width, and how to work out pixels per meter for spotting and knowing things.
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 clearness, sensor size, and night tech change picture sharpness. Learn wide light balance, night light, and starlight ideas, noise choices, and how to fit pixels and light sense to spot and know 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 work in day and night, with night light filters and LEDs. Know night light reach claims, smart night light adjust, white light scare use, and how to cut shine, bloom, and too much light 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 practicesLook at maker groups, ONVIF help, and side smart work. Learn simple move spot from advanced smart work, plus safe software update ways and how to skip match problems.
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 press ways, bit speeds, and stream plans change picture good, store size, and net load. Know when to use H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and how to set for steady, good 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 limitationsLook into PTZ and change focus cameras, their zoom power, and best uses. Learn set points, rounds, and auto follow, plus machine limits, break risks, and when fixed many cameras are 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 by lenses, fix points, and strong build. Know hit proof, inside and outside fit, and how shape changes shine, night light work, and care in real 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 covers, water dust scores, and hit scores, and nature limits. Learn to pick boxes for rain, dust, hits, heat, and cold, and when to use warmers, fans, or sun covers for long strong work.
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 info links, with PoE kinds and 12VDC. Learn power plan work, pick PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and skip power drop, too much load, and wire 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
