General Information
Electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems are used for inventory control and to prevent theft and similar unauthorized removal of articles from a controlled area. Electronic article surveillance systems allow the identification of a hard tag or soft label within a given detection area. EAS systems have many uses, but most often they are used as security systems for preventing shoplifting in stores or removal of property in office buildings. EAS systems come in many different forms and make use of a number of different technologies. The two most popular technologies on the market are Radio-Frequency and Acousto-Magnetic systems, which are both included in American Security's unique product range.
Further description of EAS system functionality:
An electronic article surveillance system detectable label is attached to every article that is to be protected. When an unauthorized article removal is attempted, the EAS system detects the label as the article crosses the detection zone. The Electronic Article Surveillance system responds to the detected label with an alarm. When an article is properly purchased or otherwise authorized for removal from the protected area, the EAS tag/label is either removed or deactivated. If the EAS tag/label is not removed or deactivated, the EAS system will trigger an alarm.
A typical EAS system includes an electronic board, system antenna(s) and power supply.
EAS tags and labels have special characteristics and are specifically designed to be affixed to or embedded in merchandise or other objects sought to be protected. Electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems have employed either reusable EAS hard tags or disposable EAS soft labels to monitor articles. Reusable tags are normally placed on the goods at the commercial establishment by a clerk and are removed from the goods by the clerk with a special tool before the customer exits the store. The tag is then reused by having the clerk place it on another article. Disposable labels remain with the articles and must be deactivated before they are removed from the store by the customer.
Types of Electronic Article Surveillance Systems
- Acousto-Magnetic (also known as magnetostrictive)
- Radio-Frequency
- Electro-Magnetic
- Microwave
- Video surveillance systems (to some extent)