Lesson 1Overview of CCTV system architecture: cameras, recorders (NVR/DVR), storage, network, powerGrasp how cameras, NVRs or DVRs, storage, switches, and power systems connect to build a complete CCTV setup that enables recording, remote viewing, backup options, and scalability for future needs.
Roles of cameras, encoders, and recordersNVR vs DVR vs hybrid architecturesNetwork topology for CCTV trafficStorage sizing and retention planningRemote access, clients, and VMSLesson 2Regulatory and privacy considerations affecting camera placement and recordingDiscover how privacy regulations, data protection guidelines, and sector standards shape camera positioning, storage durations, audio recording, and signage to keep CCTV systems lawful and robust against inspections or court challenges.
Key global and local CCTV legal frameworksData protection, consent, and purpose limitationAudio recording restrictions and best practicesSignage, notifications, and privacy maskingRetention periods, access rights, and logsLesson 3Illumination and low-light technologies: IR, white-light, low-light CMOS, WDR, BLC, HLCInvestigate how IR and white-light lighting, low-light CMOS sensors, WDR, BLC, and HLC combine to deliver clear images in dark areas, backlit situations, and high-contrast settings typical in CCTV applications.
IR LEDs, IR range, and wavelength choicesWhite-light illuminators and deterrenceLow-light CMOS and minimum lux ratingsWide Dynamic Range concepts and tuningBLC and HLC for backlight and glareLesson 4Lens basics: focal length, field of view, fixed vs varifocal, auto-iris, megapixel lens considerationsLearn how focal length, sensor size, and lens quality determine field of view, recognition distance, and picture sharpness, and evaluate fixed, varifocal, auto-iris, and megapixel lenses for various CCTV uses.
Focal length, sensor size, and angle of viewFixed vs varifocal lens use casesAuto-iris vs manual iris operationMegapixel lens resolution and MTFLens selection for typical CCTV scenesLesson 5Mounting, housings and environmental ratings: pole, wall, ceiling mounts, IK and IP ratings, vandal housingsUnderstand how mounting equipment, enclosures, and weatherproof ratings shield cameras from elements, vandalism, and damage, and select pole, wall, and ceiling mounts for stability, safety, and optimal angles.
Wall, ceiling, and pole mount selectionOutdoor housings and heater–blower unitsIP ratings for dust and water ingressIK ratings and vandal-resistant designsCable routing, seals, and strain reliefLesson 6Power and connectivity: PoE fundamentals, power budgets, cable types (Cat5e/Cat6, coax), surge protectionAcquire hands-on insight into PoE standards, power calculations, cable varieties, and coaxial alternatives, along with surge and lightning safeguards, to guarantee steady, secure, and compliant power and data to CCTV equipment.
PoE standards, modes, and power classesCalculating and verifying power budgetsCat5e vs Cat6 vs coax for CCTV linksConnectors, patch panels, and terminationsSurge, lightning, and grounding practicesLesson 7Image sensors, resolution standards and their trade-offs: 720p, 1080p, 4MP, 4KAnalyse how sensor dimensions, pixel spacing, and resolutions like 720p, 1080p, 4MP, and 4K influence detail, data usage, storage needs, and night performance, aiding smart choices for every monitoring context.
Sensor types, sizes, and pixel pitchCommon CCTV resolutions and aspect ratiosDetail levels for detect, observe, identifyBandwidth and storage impact of resolutionBalancing resolution with low-light needsLesson 8Camera types and form factors: fixed dome, turret, bullet, PTZ, panoramic, covertExamine primary CCTV camera styles and shapes, such as domes, turrets, bullets, PTZ, panoramic, and hidden models, and see how each impacts coverage, visibility, tamper-proofing, and setup difficulty.
Fixed dome and microdome applicationsTurret cameras and IR performanceBullet cameras for long corridorsPTZ cameras for active monitoringPanoramic and multi-sensor camerasCovert and discreet camera options
