Protecting products from theft while maintaining an efficient and customer-friendly atmosphere is essential in the ever-changing retail industry. Retail shrinkage is a matter of concern for many retail businesses as retail theft is at an alarming rate at present. According to a Forbes report, shoplifting in retail sector is a 100 Billion USD problem in USA alone, which also includes Organized Retail Crimes (ORC). EAS Anti-theft solutions have been the go to option for retailers to prevent shoplifting for many years.
Acoustic Magnetic (AM) and Radio Frequency (RF) Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) labels are two popular technology solutions when it comes to best anti-theft solutions in retail.
In this blog, we'll look at the properties of AM and RF EAS labels to assist retail stores in deciding which Anti-theft solution technology is appropriate for their security needs.
Understanding Acousto-Magnetic (AM) EAS Labels
Small security tags called AM EAS labels are used in stores to prevent shoplifting and guard inventory against theft. Retailers frequently use Electronic Article Surveillance systems, which include these labels, as a security tool to improve loss prevention. The AM EAS labels use acousto-magnetic technology to sound an alert if an item is removed without authorization.
How do AM EAS labels Work?
AM (Acoustic Magnetic) EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) labels operate on the principle of acousto-magnetic technology to enhance retail security. These labels contain a small strip of ferrite, a magnetic material that, when exposed to a specific radio frequency (typically around 58 kHz), resonates and creates an acoustic signal. Placed on merchandise, AM EAS labels are detected by sensors positioned at store entrances and exits gates. When an item with an active AM label passes through the detection zone without being properly deactivated, the resonating signal triggers an alarm, alerting store personnel to the potential theft.
Key Features of AM EAS Labels
AM EAS labels, a well known Anti-theft solution in retail, are frequently utilized to improve security and prevent stealing.
The key features of AM EAS labels are as follows:
Acousto-Magnetic Technology
Using a tiny strip of ferrite, a magnetic substance, AM EAS labels use acousto-magnetic technology, which produces a resonant signal when exposed to a certain radio frequency
AM Frequency Range
Utilize a low radio frequency, usually between 58 to 60 kHz. This frequency is ideal for a wide range of products because it can travel through a variety of materials.
Durability of AM EAS Labels
AM EAS labels are well-known for their robustness. They are made to resist normal handling and environmental damage without losing their effectiveness.
Deactivating and Activating AM EAS Labels
At the point of sale, store employees can use a specialized deactivation device to deactivate AM EAS labels. Reactivation is another feature that certain labels provide, enabling reuse on returned goods.
What is RF EAS LABEL?
Security tags called RF EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) labels are used in retail settings to improve loss prevention and prevent retail shoplifting. RF labels are a component of an EAS system, similar to AM (Acoustic Magnetic) EAS labels, except they function via radio frequency technology instead of acousto-magnetic principles.
How do RF EAS Labels Work?
RF EAS labels have an integrated RF antenna and are attached to products. Store employees use specialized devices to deactivate the label at the time of purchase. An item passes via RF antenna placed in strategic locations at entry and exit points if an active RF EAS label is not correctly deactivated and it is taken out of the store then the RF antenna and the label's RF frequency contact, an alarm is set to warn store employees about unauthorized product theft.
Key Features of RF EAS Label
Radio Frequency (RF) labels are an essential component of Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems, and they provide various important characteristics that enhance their efficiency in retail security.
Here are the main key features of RF labels:
RF EAS Labels Use Radio Frequencies
To provide a secure EAS solution in the retail sector, radio frequency technology, or RF labels, is used. RF labels normally operate at frequencies about 8.2 MHz.
Long Range of Detection
Because RF labels have a longer detection range, they can be used at wider entries and exits. This functionality makes it possible to cover different store layouts effectively.
Connectivity to EAS Systems
RF labels contribute to a complete retail security solution by integrating with RF EAS systems with ease. Usually, these systems have RF antennas placed in ideal places at retail stores
RF EAS label Vs AM EAS Label
RF (Radio Frequency) and AM (Acoustic Magnetic) EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) labels are two different technologies used in retail industries to prevent loss and theft.
An illustration of the differences between RF and AM EAS labels is provided below:
Both systems rely on communication between security tags attached to items and an antenna, which is often placed above or close to a doorway. In brief, the tag or label responds to a signal sent out by the antenna.
The operating frequency of the systems, which is expressed in Hertz, is the primary distinction between RF and AM. While radio frequency, or RF, operates in a sweep at 8.2 MHz, AM (Acousto Magnetic) systems function at 58 KHz, which means a signal is sent out in pulses or bursts between 50 and 90 times per second.
In summary, both AM and RF EAS labels improve retail security; which one to use depends on the particular requirements and circumstances of the retail setting. Although AM technology is well known for its reliability and adaptability, RF technology has the potential to be integrated with RFID for even more functionality in addition to having a longer detection range.
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