CCTV Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield CCTV facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. What advantage does edge-based video analytics (processing on the camera) offer compared to server-based analytics? → Reduced bandwidth and server load since processing occurs locally at the camera
2. According to NFPA 70, what determines the type o insulation used on conductors in an installation? → Current of the circuit
3. Regarding cabling, UTP denotes: → Unshielded twisted pair
4. Which of the following best describes a 'covert' CCTV camera? → A camera disguised or hidden to avoid detection
5. Which camera feature allows automatic horizontal tracking of a moving subject? → Auto tracking PTZ
6. What is the CCTV control room manager's primary duty? → To follow the Home Office guidance
7. Which US federal law most directly governs the use of video surveillance in the workplace? → The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA)
8. Which industry standard body publishes the Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification relevant to CCTV practitioners? → ASIS International
9. It appears that a number of workers in a CCTV control room are experiencing stress. Which one of these could aid in lessening these effects? → Maintaining a positive attitude
10. There are two types of GSM and CDMA: → Cellular networks
11. What is infrared (IR) cut filter used for in a day/night CCTV camera? → To remove IR light during daytime to improve color accuracy
12. Which camera housing type is specifically designed to protect cameras from vandalism in public areas? → Vandal-resistant dome housing (IK10-rated)
13. What is a false alarm in the context of an integrated CCTV and alarm system? → An alarm triggered by a non-threatening event rather than an actual security breach
14. What is the advantage of using fiber optic cable for long-distance CCTV camera runs? → It is immune to electromagnetic interference and supports very long runs
15. What is 'facial recognition' in a CCTV analytics system designed to do? → Match captured faces against a database to identify or flag specific individuals
16. What does 'abandoned object detection' in video analytics identify? → Objects that are left behind in a scene after the person who placed them has left
17. Where should a CCTV camera be positioned to be most effective at an access control entry point? → Facing the approaching person to capture a clear image of their face
18. In a modern IP surveillance system, what is the primary function of a PoE switch? → To supply power and data to IP cameras over a single Ethernet cable.
19. Which of the following is a common cause of false alarms in motion-triggered CCTV analytics? → Environmental motion such as tree branches, shadows, or lighting changes
20. What is meant by CIF is: → A common resolution
21. Which event most commonly triggers CCTV recording at an access control point? → An invalid access attempt or a door-forced-open alarm
22. In a power supply, a blown fuse typically signifies: → Too much current is being drawn
23. What is the purpose of Back Light Compensation (BLC) in CCTV cameras? → To improve visibility of subjects in front of bright backgrounds
24. What type of cable is most commonly used for analog CCTV camera installations? → RG-59 coaxial cable
25. What is 'camera tamper detection' designed to alert on? → Physical interference such as camera blocking, defocusing, or spray painting
26. What is 'video analytics' in the context of CCTV systems? → Automated software-based analysis of video content to detect events or patterns
27. What is the main risk of running low-voltage CCTV cables parallel and in close proximity to high-voltage AC power cables? → Electromagnetic interference (EMI) induction causing video noise
28. In what ways can a CCTV operator help the Border Agency? → By monitoring the movement of people
29. Under US federal law, is covert video surveillance of employees in restrooms or changing rooms permitted? → No, it is illegal and constitutes a serious federal and state criminal offense
30. What does PoE stand for in the context of IP CCTV systems? → Power over Ethernet