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.
100 questions
120 min time limit
70% to pass
- 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
- What does the term 'field of view' (FOV) refer to in CCTV systems? → The angular extent of the observable area captured by the camera lens
- Which cybersecurity practice is MOST critical when deploying IP cameras on a network? → Changing default usernames and passwords on every device
- According to NFPA 70, what determines the type o insulation used on conductors in an installation? → Current of the circuit
- A 'privacy impact assessment' (PIA) in CCTV deployment is conducted to: → Evaluate potential privacy risks before implementing a surveillance system
- What is 'scheduled recording' in a DVR/NVR? → Recording that runs only during user-defined time windows
- Which cable type is preferred for PTZ camera control signals over long distances? → RS-485 twisted pair
- A technician notices video signal degradation over a long coaxial cable run. Which device should be installed to correct this? → In-line video amplifier
- Regarding cabling, UTP denotes: → Unshielded twisted pair
- A CCTV installation requires 90 days of retention for 16 cameras each generating 2 GB/day. What total storage is needed? → 2,880 GB
- Which IP camera standard defines interoperability between cameras and video management systems from different manufacturers? → ONVIF
- Which of the following best describes a 'covert' CCTV camera? → A camera disguised or hidden to avoid detection
- Which camera feature allows automatic horizontal tracking of a moving subject? → Auto tracking PTZ
- When an operator must take a mandatory break, what is the correct procedure regarding surveillance coverage? → Ensure a qualified relief operator is in place before leaving the monitoring station
- What is the CCTV control room manager's primary duty? → To follow the Home Office guidance
- Which US federal law most directly governs the use of video surveillance in the workplace? → The Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA)
- What is the primary purpose of a CCTV operator maintaining an activity log during a shift? → To document incidents, system faults, and notable events for accountability and review
- Which industry standard body publishes the Physical Security Professional (PSP) certification relevant to CCTV practitioners? → ASIS International
- What is 'ONVIF' compliance important for in a multi-vendor CCTV system design? → It provides interoperability between cameras and VMS from different manufacturers
- A customer wants to access their IP camera system remotely over the internet. Which solution provides the most secure access? → Use a VPN tunnel to the site network
- What is the purpose of a CCTV system's 'watermarking' feature? → To embed hidden data into video to verify authenticity and detect tampering
- The term 'chilling effect' in the context of CCTV surveillance refers to: → People altering lawful behavior because they feel they are being watched
- 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
- What does PTZ stand for in CCTV terminology? → Pan, Tilt, Zoom
- Which type of CCTV housing is rated for outdoor use and protects against weather, dust, and moisture? → IP66-rated enclosure
- Which scenario represents an ethical violation by a CCTV operator? → Tracking a specific customer's movements throughout a store based on personal curiosity
- There are two types of GSM and CDMA: → Cellular networks
- What is infrared (IR) cut filter used for in a day/night CCTV camera? → To remove IR light during daytime to improve color accuracy
- What is meant by 'frame rate' in CCTV video recording? → The number of individual images captured and displayed per second, measured in fps
- What is the recommended maximum cable run for Cat6 Ethernet in an IP camera installation without a repeater? → 100 meters
Turn these facts into recall:
What Practice Test Geeks adds beyond an AI chat for CCTV
An AI chatbot can quiz you, but it can't reproduce the exam conditions or keep your record. Here you get:
- A timed, full-length CCTV mock exam — 100 questions in 120 minutes with a 70% pass mark, modeled on the official exam's question count and time limit, followed by a score report broken down by exam domain.
- A fixed CCTV question bank: the same test every attempt, so your score is comparable from one try to the next instead of changing with every regenerated quiz.
- Progress saved on your device: completed tests, scores and missed questions stay in My Progress, so you can retake only what you got wrong.
- CCTV flashcards built from the same question bank.
- Free CCTV practice tests with the correct answer shown after each question.
Was this helpful?