In the retail industry, protecting merchandise from theft is crucial to maintaining profitability and customer trust. One of the most effective tools for theft prevention is the AM EAS soft tag. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of AM EAS soft tags, explaining how they work, their benefits, and why they are a preferred choice for retailers worldwide.
Acousto-magnetic (AM) Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tags are a common anti-theft technology used by retailers to protect merchandise from shoplifting. These tags, attached to products, trigger alarms when passing through antennas positioned at store exits. Understanding how AM EAS tags work and their key features can be helpful for both retailers and shoppers.
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Here’s everything you need to know about AM EAS soft Tags:
AM EAS soft tags are a type of Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) tag that operates on Acousto-Magnetic (AM) technology. These tags are typically thin, flexible labels that can be discreetly applied to various types of merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and packaged goods. Unlike hard tags, which are more rigid and visible, soft tags are adhesive and can be easily integrated into product packaging without affecting the customer’s shopping experience.
How Do AM EAS Soft Tags Work?
AM EAS soft tags function through a combination of magnetostrictive materials and magnetic fields. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how they work:
- Tag Activation: Each AM soft tag contains a small strip of amorphous metal. This strip is magnetostrictive, meaning it changes shape when exposed to a magnetic field.
- Detection System: The store’s EAS system, typically placed at the exits, emits a magnetic field at a frequency of 58 kHz. When an active AM soft tag passes through this field, the magnetostrictive strip begins to vibrate.
- Alarm Triggering: The vibrations create a unique signal that is detected by the EAS system. If the tag has not been deactivated at the point of sale, the system will trigger an alarm, alerting store personnel to potential theft.
- Tag Deactivation: At the checkout, the cashier uses a deactivation pad to disable the AM soft tag. This is done by exposing the tag to a stronger magnetic field, which disrupts the magnetostrictive properties of the strip, rendering the tag inactive.
Benefits of Using AM EAS Soft Tags
There are several advantages to using AM EAS soft tags in retail environments:
- High Detection Range: AM technology offers a longer detection range compared to other EAS technologies, making it ideal for larger stores with wide exit areas.
- Resistance to Interference: AM EAS systems are less susceptible to interference from metallic objects or electronic devices, ensuring consistent performance in various retail settings.
- Discreet Application: The slim and flexible design of soft tags allows them to be applied discreetly to a wide range of products, enhancing the customer experience without compromising security.
- Cost-Effective: AM EAS soft tags are generally more affordable than hard tags, particularly when purchased in bulk, making them a cost-effective solution for high-volume retailers.
Common Uses for AM EAS Soft Tags
AM EAS soft tags are versatile and can be used across various retail sectors, including:
- Clothing and Apparel: Soft tags are commonly used on clothing items, where they can be easily attached to labels or inside seams without damaging the fabric.
- Electronics: Small electronic devices, such as headphones and mobile accessories, often use soft tags due to their compact size and flexibility.
- Pharmaceuticals: Soft tags are ideal for securing packaged goods like over-the-counter medications, where tamper-evident packaging is crucial.
Key features:
- Detection range: Varies depending on antenna and tag strength, typically several meters.
- Tamper-proof: Tags can be designed to break or trigger alarms if tampered with.
- Deactivation: Tags can be deactivated with special devices at checkout counters.
- Reusable: Hard tags and some labels can be reused on different items.
Considerations for shoppers:
- Alarms: If an alarm sounds, cooperate with store staff to resolve the issue.
- Deactivation: Ensure tags are deactivated properly before leaving the store.
- Removal: Do not attempt to remove tags yourself, as it may damage the product and trigger an alarm.
Types of AM EAS Tags
- Hard Tags: Attached to merchandise with pins or adhesive, typically used for high-value items. These tags are reusable and are removed at checkout using a hard tag remover.
- Soft Tags: Made of paper or fabric, these tags are attached with adhesive, making them suitable for textiles and other delicate items. They are typically single-use.
- RF Soft Labels: These are adhesive stickers applied directly to products, offering a discreet and flexible option for protecting merchandise.
What Do EAS Tags Look Like?
EAS tags come in various forms, including rigid plastic casings (hard tags) or thin, flexible labels (soft tags). AM tags are often small and discreet, blending seamlessly with product packaging. Soft tags for clothing are typically applied inside garments to avoid detection while maintaining their protective function.
Additional notes:
- AM EAS is one of several EAS technologies, each with its own advantages and limitations.
- AM EAS systems require regular maintenance and calibration for optimal performance.
- Some concerns exist about potential interference with medical devices, though modern systems are designed to minimize this risk.
By understanding how AM security EAS soft tags work and their key features, both retailers and shoppers can benefit from this effective anti-theft technology.
Please let me know if you have any further questions about AM EAS soft tags or other security solutions. I’m happy to help!
FAQs
Q: What is the price of AM EAS soft tags?
A: The EAS AM soft tags price can vary depending on the supplier and quantity. In Kenya, prices typically range from Ksh 5 to Ksh 10 per tag when purchased in bulk.
Q: Where can I buy AM EAS soft tags?
A: You can purchase EAS AM soft tags from various retailers, including Movetech Kenya and online platforms like Movemall kenya.
Q: How do I remove an AM EAS soft tag?
A: AM EAS soft tags are deactivated at the checkout with a specialized EAS tag remover. They do not need to be physically removed, as they become inactive once deactivated.
Q: What is the difference between hard tags and soft tags?
A: Hard tags are reusable and attached with pins, making them ideal for high-value items. Soft tags, on the other hand, are adhesive, single-use tags suitable for delicate items like clothing.
Q: What frequency do AM EAS soft tags use?
A: AM EAS soft tags operate at a frequency of 58 kHz, which allows for a longer detection range and less susceptibility to interference compared to RF tags.
Q: Can AM EAS soft tags be used on all types of products?
A: Yes, AM EAS soft tags can be used on a wide range of products, including clothing, electronics, and pharmaceuticals, making them a versatile choice for retailers.
Conclusion
AM EAS soft tags offer an effective and versatile solution for retail theft prevention. Their discreet design, high detection range, and cost-effectiveness make them an ideal choice for retailers looking to protect their merchandise. Whether you need soft tags for clothing or RF soft labels for smaller items, investing in quality EAS tags will enhance your store’s security and customer experience. For more information or to purchase AM EAS soft tags in Kenya, visit Movemall Kenya.