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About merchandise security system

Types of Merchandise Security Systems

Suppliers provide these types of EAS systems for sale in bulk.

Acoustic Magnetic System

This type of system uses acoustic magnetic EAS tags and sensors to detect and deactivate them. An AM tag comprises a small magnet and a magnetic-sensitive strip. When an AM tag is near a tuned sensor, it emits an acoustic signal that the sensor picks up.

This triggers an alarm in the system. Many retail businesses prefer the AM system since it better works in clothing stores. Clothing usually has thin materials that complicate the detection and deactivation of other types of tags.

Radio Frequency System

The radio frequency EAS system uses RF tags and sensors to detect these tags. An RF tag consists of a small antenna and a plastic part that emits an RF signal. RF systems work better in stores with non-clothing merchandise, such as electronics, books, and hard goods.

This is because RF tags are larger and easier to detect than AM tags. In addition, RF systems are more versatile to accommodate various stores.

Electromagnetic System

People also know the Electromagnetic system as EM EAS. This system uses EM tags and deactivators to detect and deactivate these tags. EM tags contain a small piece of magnetized ferrite. To deactivate the tag, staff will use an electromagnet deactivator.

Staff will demagnetize or destroy the tag so the customer won't trigger an alarm at the exit. EM systems excel at detecting security labels on small, high-value items, such as cosmetics and jewelry. Many retailers choose EM systems for the extra protection they provide for high-risk merchandise.

Intelligent System

This system employs various sensors, cameras, and software to provide a more integrated form of security. Intelligent systems enable retailers to track customer behavior, monitor store layouts, and analyze sales data in real time. They can also integrate with other security measures such as alarm systems and CCTV.

Important Features of Merchandise Security Systems

When choosing a suitable merchandise security systems, buyers should consider these features.

Tag Types

Merchandise security systems use different tag types to protect various products. Suppliers provide some like adhesive labels for flat surfaces or hard tags for three-dimensional items. Soft tags are for temporary use and often in clothing. Each tag type suits different merchandise and store environments.

Detection Range

The detection range in a security system determines how sensitively it can identify active tags in a specified area. Larger detection zones enable retailers to cover their store layouts with fewer installations. RF systems provide a detection range of 1 m to 1.5 m. AM systems have a range of 1 m to 2 m. EM systems have a shorter range of 15 to 20 cm due to their designs.

Deactivation Capabilities

Many EAS systems have deactivation features to disable tags when staff are authorized. This prevents unnecessary alarms from triggering when customers legitimately shop and check out. Efficient deactivation capabilities streamline retail operations. It reduces the chance of theft by ensuring no active tags remain on items post-purchase.

Alarm Systems

Suppliers design some merchandise security system alarms to alert store personnel when tag breaches occur. This can be during unauthorized removal or in areas where theft is suspected. Some systems enable retailers to customize alarm settings to minimize false positives. These include lowering alarm thresholds or filtering baseline signals.

Durability

Many manufacturers make security tags from robust and sometimes waterproof materials like hard plastics and metals. Some of them withstand normal wear or tampering attempts. A few brands take it further to test their security tags to work in various retail settings to ensure consistent performance.

Commercial Uses of Merchandise Security Systems

Merchandise security systems have these retail uses.

Preventing Theft

These systems are the core of loss prevention strategy for many retailers. With EAS tags attached to merchandise and sensors at store entrances, unauthorized removal of items triggers an alarm. This alarm alerts staff to intervene and prevent theft.

Monitoring Inventory

Many retailers also use merchandise security systems to help track and manage inventory levels. Some systems automatically record tag and sensor interactions. This generates data about product movement in and out of the store. Retailers gain valuable insights into popular items, sales trends, and stock availability by integrating this data with inventory management software.

Enhancing Customer Experience

Manufacturers also design these security systems to improve the overall shopping experience for customers. Systems like RFID provide real-time visibility into item locations. This enables faster restocking and less chance of customers encountering empty shelves.

Some retailers use security system data to reduce wait times at checkout. They can quickly locate a security tag and remove it from an item. This efficiency leads to a smooth shopping experience that encourages repeat business.

Providing Data Analytics

Many modern EAS systems have built-in analytics capabilities. They track metrics like alarm frequency and tag installations. This data enables retailers to identify weak points in security and optimize layouts. It can also help them in decision-making processes like adjusting staffing levels.

Integration with Other Security Measures

Retailers can integrate these systems with other physical security measures like CCTV cameras. When they do this, it creates a unified security infrastructure. This integrated approach enables real-time threat detection and enhances overall store safety.

How to Choose Merchandise Security Systems

Buyers should consider these factors when ordering bulk merchandise security camera systems.

Store Layout and Size

Large retailers need a system that supports multiple points of detection. Complex store layouts benefit from a system that can cover various entry and exit points. Retailers with extensive inventory portfolios should also choose systems that offer versatile tag options.

System Compatibility

Some retailers already have existing security infrastructure in place. This includes surveillance cameras or alarm systems. They should choose a merchandise security system that can easily integrate into what they already have. Compatibility enables seamless operation across platforms.

Industry Needs

Retailers' unique needs also determine what type of merchandise security system they should get. Clothing stores mainly focus on anti-theft tags for removable clothing accessories. Electronics retailers prioritize discreet RF tags that won't interfere with item function. Pharmaceutical and cosmetic retailers require tag options for small, high-value items.

Scalability

A scalable merchandise security system allows expansion when necessary. For example, multi-location retailers can choose an EAS system that centralizes monitoring across all stores. Systems that enable easy addition of tags and sensors accommodate growing inventory or changing security needs.

Budget

Buyers should consider the costs of acquiring, installing, and maintaining a merchandise security system over its lifetime. Advanced systems offer greater efficiency and lower long-term costs. For example, RFID systems automate inventory management. This reduces manpower over time despite having higher initial costs.

Q&A

Q1: Which enhancements do newer merchandise security systems have from their earlier versions?

A1: The newer versions use RFIDs that enable real-time tracking and inventory management. They also offer data analytics capabilities to help retailers understand patterns. They also integrate with other systems for more comprehensive security solutions.

Q2: What will happen if a tag malfunctions and mistakenly gets deactivated?

A2: If an active tag malfunctions or is mistakenly deactivated, it will not trigger an alarm. Some systems even enable staff to test deactivation after removing tags. This prevents such errors from occurring in the first place.

Q3: Do recent developments enable people to install these systems DIY?

A3: While most EAS systems require professional installation, some systems offer simplified setups. For instance, platforms that use plug-and-play sensors allow store staff to set them up without technical expertise.

Q4: Which materials do manufacturers use to make security tags?

A4: People make most security tags from durable plastic polymers like polystyrene. This is because of its robustness and capacity to withstand molding into various shapes. Some tags contain metal components for added strength to resist tampering efforts.

Q5: How can retailers encourage customers to return merch with tags attached?

A5: Retailers can take actions like having a well-staffed customer service desk to swiftly address concerns. Creating an open and welcoming atmosphere also encourages customers to return items with security tags attached.