How EAS Systems Work
EAS systems operate from a simple principle regardless of the manufacturer or the specific type of technology used: a transmitter sends a magnetic or radio frequency signal at defined frequencies to a receiver. This creates the system detection zone. Upon entering the zone, an EAS tag creates a disturbance, which is detected by the system receiver.
By design the disturbed signal created by the tag and detected by the receiver is distinctive and not likely to be created by natural circumstances. The tag is the key element, for it must create a unique signal to avoid false alarms. The disturbance caused by the tag creates an alarm that may indicate a shoplifting event.
EAS systems range from very low magnetic frequencies through the radio frequency range. These different frequencies play a key role in establishing the features that affect operation.