Lesson 1Lens types and fields of view: focal length, horizontal FOV, pixel density per metre for ID vs detectionGet to know lens kinds, focal lengths, and how they set the view area. Learn about fixed, varifocal, and motorised lenses, horizontal field of view, and calculating pixel density per metre for spotting and identifying things.
Fixed vs varifocal vs motorised lensesFocal length and angle of view basicsHorizontal FOV vs scene coverageCalculating pixel density per metreID, 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 night vision tech impact picture sharpness. Learn about WDR, IR, and starlight features, noise issues, and matching pixel count and light sensitivity to spotting and identifying 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 switch between day and night, using IR filters and lights. Understand IR distance claims, smart IR adjustments, white light for scaring off intruders, and reducing night glare, blooming, and over-bright spots.
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 brand systems, ONVIF compatibility, and on-camera smarts. Learn simple motion spotting vs advanced analysis, safe firmware updates, and avoiding setup surprises in Ugandan installations.
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 compression, data rates, and streaming affect picture quality, storage needs, and network use. Know when to use H.264, H.265, or H.265+, and adjust settings for steady, efficient systems locally.
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 powers, and best uses. Learn presets, tours, auto-follow, plus mechanical limits, breakdown risks, and when fixed multi-camera setups are better in Uganda.
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, fitting, and toughness. Understand anti-vandal strength, inside/outside fit, and how shape affects glare, IR work, and upkeep in real Ugandan 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 considerationsCheck camera casings, IP and IK ratings, and weather limits. Learn to choose covers for rain, dust, vandalism, heat, and cold, and use heaters, fans, or shades for lasting reliability in Uganda.
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, like PoE types and 12VDC. Learn power calculations, picking PoE, PoE+, or PoE++, and avoiding voltage loss, overloads, 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