Here is a comprehensive breakdown of EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) anti-theft systems--covering their types, core components, and key features. These systems are widely used in retail, libraries, and logistics to prevent shoplifting and unauthorized asset removal.
Core Components of an EAS System
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Component
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Description
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EAS Tags/Labels
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Attached to merchandise; can be hard tags (reusable) or soft labels (disposable)
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Detectors/Antennas
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Installed at store exits; detect active tags passing through the field
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Deactivators/Detachers
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Used at checkout to deactivate or remove tags after purchase
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Controller Unit
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Manages signal processing, alarm logic, and system health monitoring
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Types of EAS Systems
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Type
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Technology Used
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Best For
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Electromagnetic (EM)
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Metallic glass tags; magnetized/deactivated
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Libraries, pharmaceuticals, small items
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Acousto-Magnetic (AM)
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Tags vibrate at specific frequencies
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Apparel, electronics, wide exit coverage
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Radio Frequency (RF)
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Tags resonate at 8.2 MHz or similar
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General retail, supermarkets, cosmetics
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In India, RF and AM systems dominate retail deployments due to cost-effectiveness and tag availability.
Key Features
- Detection Range: 1-2 meters per antenna (varies by system type and tag size)
- Tag Variety: Ink tags, pencil tags, bottle tags, source-tagged labels
- False Alarm Reduction: Smart filtering and remote diagnostics to minimize nuisance alerts
- Integration: Can be linked with CCTV, POS, and inventory systems for enhanced security
- Compliance: GS1, UDI, and ISO/IEC standards for retail and healthcare traceability
Use Cases
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Sector
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Applications
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Retail
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Theft deterrence, shrinkage reduction, inventory accuracy
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Libraries
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Book tracking, automated check-in/out
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Pharma
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Controlled substance protection, regulatory compliance
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Logistics
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Asset protection, warehouse exit monitoring
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Would you like to deploy of RF vs AM systems for a specific retail format--say, apparel vs electronics? Contact us today.