Camera Course Winter 2019 Overview
Our next course starts on January 29th. Read on to learn more.
This is the only independent surveillance camera course, based on in-depth product and technology testing.
Lots of manufacturer training exists but none it really teaches the underlying technologies and tradeoffs of current 2019 camera technology. This IPVM course solve this.
What the IPVM Camera Course Covers
In 12 sessions, we cover surveillance cameras extensively.
(1) Basic Lenses
The course starts with the fundamentals - lens length, FoV/AoV, varifocal vs fixed focal and focusing - to make sure everyone understands how to use, calculate and plan coverage area.
(2) Advance Lenses
We then proceed to F stops, DoF, lens irises, and the related shutter speed so attendees understand the impact on low light performance and image quality.
(3) Image Quality
With lensing covered, we turn to resolution and compression, breaking down quantizations levels, quality tradeoffs and measuring image quality variances.
(4) Streaming
Covering codecs (H.265, H.264, MJPEG, etc.) and streaming modes (MBR, VBR, CBR), we explain the tradeoffs between bandwidth, image quality and network impact.
(5) WDR / FPS / AGC
Here we teach the difference between 'true' and 'fake' WDR, show the impact of frame rate increases (up to 120fps) and explain the critical role and side effects of gain control.
(6) Low Light
Covers D/N, IR, Integrated IR, Smart IR, 'super' low light and thermal, contrasting these options and teaching the pros and cons of each one.
(7) Bandwidth
Reveals one of the biggest underappreciated and misunderstood elements of video surveillance, we break down the 8 key drivers of bandwidth variation, explaining how bandwidth can vary 10x or more across cameras, even with the same resolution and frame. We conclude by teaching the right and wrong ways to calculate bandwidth / storage.
(8) PPF
We teach how to use PPF / PPM correctly, what mistakes to avoid and how to incorporate this to improve the quality of your designs.
(9) Form Factors
Covers IP vs AHD vs CVI vs TVI vs SDI plus domes, minidomes, boxes, bullets, PTZs, and cubes, plus IK and IP ratings, explaining the tradeoffs and key reasons for using one vs the other.
(10) Panoramic vs PTZs
Panoramics and PTZs are two of the most common choices for covering wide areas. With panoramics now reaching 10+ MP, and adding IR, we contrast when and where to use them vs HD speeddomes. Finally, we explain and contrast the differences between fisheye, panomorph and multi-imager panoramics.
(11) ONVIF / API & SDKs
Learn what API and SDKs are, going through practical examples of camera and VMS manufacturer's APIs. Plus, understand ONVIF S, G, C and Q profiles, breaking down the strengths and limitations of these offerings.
(12) Camera Selection
In our capstone session, we pull all of the training together, showing you how to select and use different camera technologies in common scenarios including parking lots, offices, hallways, entrances, license plates and more.
Who Should and Should NOT Take this Course
Even if you have lots of hands on experience with surveillance cameras and manufacturer training, you should take this course. It teaches cameras at much greater depth than what regular field work or product specific training provides.
However, if you have no experience with IP cameras, you should not take this course unless you can commit to spending 10 to 15 hours per week studying. We have had many people take this course without experience and do very well, but only if they dedicate sufficient time to studying. You cannot pass this course simply by reading a few hours the night before the exam.
Course Instructor
The course will be lead by Brian Rhodes from IPVM. In addition to heading up several training courses, Brian also contributes research and testing to security video, networking, and access control. Before coming to IPVM, Brian worked as an engineer, designer, and project manager for a security integrator.
Brian will lead each session, with others from IPVM moderating questions and providing feedback on related IPVM research and testing.
Course Calendar
The Camera course will meet live online, starting January 29th for 12 times over 6 weeks (Tuesday and Thursday) for 1 hour from 11am - 12pm ET and 8pm - 9pm ET.
Recorded Sessions
All sessions are recorded and posted for viewing on-demand anytime the same day the session is held.
Certification
At the end of classes, you will take a comprehensive final exam including multiple choice and essay questions. If you pass, you will become IPMVU Camera certified (see list of IPVM Certified Professionals).
Register
The member's price is $299. This covers classes, personal help and certification.
