Understanding Am 58Khz And Rf 82Mhz Optical Tags For Retail Security

The retail industry employs sophisticated security measures to protect merchandise from theft, with electronic article surveillance (EAS) systems being a common solution. Central to these systems are specialized security tags, with AM 58KHz and RF 8.2MHz optical tags representing two prominent technologies. This article examines these security tags, their technical specifications, applications, and the companies that provide them, based on available information from industry sources.

Technology Comparison: AM 58KHz vs. RF 8.2MHz Tags

AM 58KHz and RF 8.2MHz tags utilize different technologies to prevent retail theft, each with distinct characteristics that may influence a retailer's choice based on specific operational needs.

Technology Fundamentals

AM 58KHz labels employ acousto-magnetic technology, which relies on the interaction between a magnetic field and a resonant circuit to function. In contrast, RF 8.2MHz labels use radio-frequency technology, utilizing electromagnetic waves to detect the presence of the tag. These technological differences result in varying performance characteristics that retailers must consider when implementing security systems.

Detection Range

The detection range between these two technologies shows a significant difference. AM 58KHz labels typically offer a larger detection range compared to RF 8.2MHz labels, allowing them to be detected from greater distances. This characteristic makes AM 58KHz labels more suitable for large retail environments where merchandise is spread across extensive areas. The enhanced detection range provides greater coverage with fewer security checkpoints, potentially reducing installation costs while maintaining comprehensive protection.

False Alarm Rates

False alarms represent a challenge for both technologies, but they occur more frequently with RF 8.2MHz labels. This increased tendency stems from the fact that RF signals can be more susceptible to interference from environmental factors such as metal objects or electronic equipment. In retail settings with numerous electronic devices or metal fixtures, RF 8.2MHz labels may generate more false alarms, potentially causing inconvenience to both customers and staff and potentially desensitizing personnel to genuine security alerts.

Cost Considerations

From a financial perspective, AM 58KHz labels generally command a higher price point than RF 8.2MHz labels. However, this increased cost is often offset by the tags' greater durability and reusability. AM 58KHz labels can withstand multiple uses and removal cycles better than their RF counterparts, potentially offering a better long-term value despite the initial investment. Retailers must balance the upfront cost against the expected lifespan and performance characteristics when selecting a technology.

EAS Safer Boxes and Security Applications

Beyond simple tags, retailers have access to more comprehensive security solutions such as EAS safer boxes, which provide enhanced protection for high-value or frequently stolen merchandise.

Product Construction and Features

EAS safer boxes are constructed from clear polycarbonate plastic, an exceptionally tough material that is virtually unbreakable under normal circumstances. This transparency serves both security and operational purposes, allowing staff and customers to view the merchandise while ensuring the product remains protected. The boxes feature a double locking system that cannot be opened without a special high-power detacher, adding another layer of security beyond the electronic monitoring.

Security Mechanism

Each safer box contains non-deactivatable labels, coils, or ferrite components that trigger the EAS system alarm when someone attempts to remove protected merchandise from the store. This security functionality remains active regardless of whether the safer box is locked, providing continuous protection. If someone attempts to remove the safer box with the product from the store, the RF antenna at the store exit will activate the alarm buzzer, creating both an audible and visual alert to potential theft.

Product Specifications

The standard EAS AM RF Safer Box has specific dimensions that accommodate various merchandise sizes:

• Item size: 245x145x55MM
• Detection range: 0.5-2.5m (varies depending on the system and environment)
• Working model: Compatible with AM or RF SYSTEMS
• Printing: Customizable color options available

These dimensions provide adequate space for protecting items such as perfume, razor kits, cigars, DVDs, batteries, cosmetics, and cigarettes, which are among the merchandise categories frequently secured using these devices.

Applications in Retail Environments

EAS safer boxes are particularly valuable for high-theft items or products that require customer interaction before purchase. By placing merchandise in these secure containers, retailers can allow customers to examine products while preventing unauthorized removal. The transparent construction maintains product visibility while the integrated security system provides protection against theft attempts.

Retail Security Systems from All-Tag

Several manufacturers provide comprehensive EAS systems compatible with AM 58KHz tags, offering retailers various options based on their specific security needs and store configurations.

All-Tag Sigma AM 58KHz System

The All-Tag Sigma AM 58KHz system represents a versatile security solution available in both mono and dual system configurations. Key features include:

• USB connection for software integration
• Red LED alarm indicator
• Powder coated "open" aluminum frame
• Dual connected by Beldon Cable
• Optional remote access via Wi-Fi
• Dual configuration options: Tx/Rx or TRx/TRx

This system allows retailers to display their brand while providing robust security protection. The "open" frame design facilitates easy integration into existing store layouts while maintaining effective detection capabilities.

All-Tag OP Plexi AM 58KHz System

The All-Tag OP Plexi system offers an alternative with similar functionality but different aesthetic features:

• USB connection for software integration
• Blue LED alarm indicator
• Powder coated aluminum frame
• Plexi inserts for enhanced product visibility
• Dual connected by Beldon Cable
• Optional remote access via Wi-Fi
• Dual configuration options: Tx/Rx or TRx/TRx

The plexi inserts provide additional clarity and protection, making this system particularly suitable for high-end retail environments where product presentation is as important as security.

All-Tag Optimum AM 58KHz System

The All-Tag Optimum represents a more advanced security solution with enhanced features:

• Jammer Alarm functionality
• Near Tag Alarm capability
• Alive indicator for system status monitoring
• DSP Technology for improved detection accuracy
• Software Tuning capabilities
• Base with concealed fixings for discreet installation
• Green Operation Mode for energy efficiency
• Optional Advertising Booklets for promotional opportunities
• Optional Built-in Metal detection
• Optional remote access capabilities

This system offers comprehensive security features while providing retailers with additional functionality such as advertising integration and metal detection, making it suitable for complex retail environments.

All-Tag OP Wide Aisle AM 58KHz System

For retailers with wide store layouts, the All-Tag OP Wide Aisle system provides enhanced detection capabilities:

• Enhanced Detection range for wider coverage
• Jammer Alarm functionality
• Near Tag Alarm capability
• Alive indicator for system status monitoring
• DSP Technology for improved detection accuracy
• Software Tuning capabilities
• Base with concealed fixings for discreet installation
• Green Operation Mode for energy efficiency
• Optional Advertising Booklets for promotional opportunities
• Optional Built-in Metal detection
• Optional remote access capabilities

This system is specifically designed to address the challenges of wide retail spaces, providing comprehensive coverage without requiring excessive hardware installations.

Industry Providers and Market Presence

Several companies specialize in manufacturing and distributing AM 58KHz and RF 8.2MHz security tags and systems, serving the global retail security market.

Etagron Technology

Etagron Technology positions itself as an international provider of security tags and related products, emphasizing innovation, excellence, and reliability as core values. The company supplies a range of products including AM 58KHz/RF 8.2MHz optical tags, EAS removers, item-level security solutions, mini lanyard RF/AM tags, and reusable hard tags.

The company operates with a global distribution network, supplying products to regions including Europe, America, Australia, Armenia, Stuttgart, New York, and Oslo. Etagron Technology maintains a business philosophy centered on "innovation, harmony, teamwork and sharing, trails, pragmatic progress," aiming to create consistent, profitable growth while increasing value for shareholders and employees.

Etagron Technology also offers EAS safer boxes designed to protect various merchandise categories. These products are exported worldwide, with the company reporting customer satisfaction with reliable quality, customer-oriented services, and competitive prices. The company's mission focuses on earning customer loyalty through continuous improvement of products and services to ensure satisfaction among end-users, customers, employees, suppliers, and cooperating communities.

All-Tag Corporation

All-Tag Corporation provides AM 58KHz systems for retail security through their Americas and Europe offices. The company offers multiple system configurations as outlined in the previous sections, with each system designed to balance security effectiveness with operational convenience.

All-Tag's Americas office is located at: 1155 Broken Sound Parkway Unit E The Park at Broken Sound Boca Raton, Florida 33487 United States

The company can be contacted via: Phone: +1-561-998-9983 Email: [email protected]

All-Tag emphasizes customizable solutions that allow retailers to display their brand while maintaining security protection. Their systems offer various optional features including remote access, advertising integration, and metal detection, providing retailers with flexibility in addressing their specific security needs.

Selecting the Right Security Solution

Retailers face numerous considerations when implementing or upgrading EAS systems with AM 58KHz or RF 8.2MHz tags. The decision process should involve evaluating several factors to ensure the chosen solution aligns with operational requirements and budget constraints.

Store Size and Layout

The physical dimensions of a retail space significantly influence the appropriate security system selection. Larger retail environments with extensive floor space may benefit from the longer detection range offered by AM 58KHz systems, potentially reducing the number of required security checkpoints. For stores with wide aisles, specialized systems like the All-Tag OP Wide Aisle may provide optimal coverage with minimal hardware installations.

Merchandise Characteristics

The type and value of merchandise being protected should guide security technology selection. High-theft items or products with high value-to-size ratios may warrant the enhanced protection provided by EAS safer boxes in addition to standard tags. The construction and visibility requirements of the merchandise should also be considered, particularly when selecting between different safer box materials and configurations.

Environmental Factors

The presence of metal objects or electronic equipment in the retail environment can impact the effectiveness of RF 8.2MHz systems, potentially increasing false alarm rates. Retailers should assess their specific environment when choosing between AM 58KHz and RF 8.2MHz technologies, considering potential interference sources that could affect system performance.

Budget Considerations

While AM 58KHz systems generally involve higher initial costs, their durability and reusability may provide better long-term value. Retailers should evaluate both upfront investment and total cost of ownership when selecting security solutions, considering factors such as tag lifespan, maintenance requirements, and potential savings from reduced false alarms.

Conclusion

AM 58KHz and RF 8.2MHz optical tags represent two primary technologies in retail EAS systems, each with distinct advantages and limitations. AM 58KHz tags generally offer longer detection ranges and greater durability but come at a higher cost, while RF 8.2MHz tags provide a more economical option with a tendency toward higher false alarm rates. Retailers must evaluate these characteristics against their specific operational needs to determine the most appropriate security solution.

Complementary products like EAS safer boxes provide additional protection for high-value merchandise, with features such as unbreakable polycarbonate construction and dual locking systems that enhance security while maintaining product visibility. Various manufacturers offer comprehensive security systems with customizable features to address different retail environments and security requirements.

As the retail industry continues to evolve, EAS technologies will likely advance to address emerging challenges and opportunities. The ongoing development of systems with enhanced detection capabilities, reduced false alarm rates, and greater integration with other retail technologies will continue to shape the landscape of retail security.

Sources

1. Etagron Technology - AM 58KHz/RF 8.2MHz Optical Tags
2. Etagron Technology - EAS Safer Box Products
3. Comparison of 58KHZ AM Labels and 8.2MHZ RF Labels
4. All-Tag Corporation - AM 58KHz Systems