Electronic article surveillance, or EAS, is a type of technology that prevents shoplifting. EAS is most often used in anti-theft systems in retail stores but can also be found in libraries and office buildings. EAS usually involves three components:
- At least one electronic antenna
- A deactivator or detacher
- An electronic tag
The antenna is typically found in EAS system pedestals installed at a store’s entrances. Today, EAS tags are available in many shapes, sizes and application options so you can protect all kinds of merchandise, from clothing, accessories, liquor and even eyewear. EAS tags are available in both acousto-magnetic (AM) and radio-frequency (RF) systems.
How EAS Tags Work
EAS tags come in a variety of attachment options, with a pin tag being the most common for soft products like apparel. Once an EAS tag is attached to an item and activated, the transmitter inside the tag is in constant communication with the EAS system installed in the store. If an EAS tag has not been properly deactivated by a store associate, it will trigger an alarm when passing through the EAS pedestals.
Many EAS tags also have visual deterrence features, such as exploding ink to damage a garment, or benefit denial features, like a cap that prevents people from opening a bottle of liquor in store.
Protect Your Merchandise with CONTROLTEK EAS Tags
Our high-performance EAS tags can help you protect a variety of products in flexible and unobtrusive ways. Our tags are compatible with both RF and AM systems and offer multiple alarm options to meet your retail asset protection needs.