Maricopa Community Colleges  AJS289AD   19986-20044 
Official Course Description: MCCCD Approval: 03/24/98
AJS289AD 19986-20044 LEC 1 Credit(s) 1 Period(s)
Technical Aspects of Covert Operations
Set-up and use of covert audio and video recording equipment commonly used in undercover operations. Topics include camera concealments, equipment selection, time lapse video recording, video and audio transmitters, installation techniques, and the legal aspects of audio and video recording. Prerequisites: Certified police officer or departmental approval.
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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
 
AJS289AD   19986-20044 Technical Aspects of Covert Operations
1. Select proper cameras, lenses, and equipment for an operation. (I-VI)
2. Set up and operate properly covert video recording equipment. (I-VI)
3. Record audio on a VCR. (V, VI)
4. Describe the legal considerations of audio and video recording, and appropriate use of consent forms. (VII)
5. Troubleshoot problems of an installation. (VIII)
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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
 
AJS289AD   19986-20044 Technical Aspects of Covert Operations
    I. Video formats
        A. VHS
        B. Compact VHS
        C. 8 M.M.
        D. Super 8 M.M.
        E. Umatic
      II. Video recorders
          A. Desirable features
          B. Power supplies
          C. Audio and video connections
          D. Remote operation
          E. Time lapse recording
        III. Camera selection
            A. Types of cameras available
            B. Selection of camera for the operation (lighting conditions)
            C. Power supplies and considerations
            D. Concealment of cameras
            E. Manufactured concealments
            F. Lens considerations
            G. Chip sizes of cameras
            H. Types of camera mounts (C, CS)
          IV. Lens selection
              A. Types of mounts and adapters
              B. Focal lengths
              C. Determining which lens is needed (field of view)
              D. Auto iris lenses and their uses
              E. Pinhole lenses and their uses
            V. Recording audio on to video tape
                A. Sound sources (hard wire microphones/audio transmitters)
                B. Line level versus microphone level audio
                C. Background noises
                D. Microphone placement in fixed locations
                E. Locations to avoid, if possible
              VI. Concealment of cameras and equipment
                  A. Concealing board cameras
                  B. Manufactured concealments
                  C. Making concealments
                  D. Pinhole lens use
                  E. Means of securing cameras and microphones VII. Legal considerations of audio and video recording
                  A. Reasonable expectation of privacy (audio)
                  B. Good and bad examples
                  C. Effects of the right to privacy on video recording (no audio)
                  D. Good practices for keeping out of trouble (consent forms) VIII. Troubleshooting
                  A. Connectors
                  B. Power supplies
                  C. Cables
                  D. Use of multi meter
                  E. Shorts
                  F. Open circuits
                  G. Making field repairs
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