Retail theft is a growing concern for businesses of all sizes. To protect merchandise and reduce losses, many retailers rely on Acousto-Magnetic (AM) systems, one of the most effective security solutions available today. Widely used in clothing stores, supermarkets, toy shops, and convenience stores, AM systems offer reliable performance, simple setup, and cost-effective protection. Here’s everything you need to know.
How an AM System Works
The core of the AM system is based on the resonance principle, similar to a tuning fork. Each soft tag contains two key components: a permalloy strip and a magnetic metal strip. When a customer passes through the detection gates at a store entrance, the AM transmitter emits a continuous 58kHz low-frequency magnetic field. If an active tag is present, the magnetic strip creates a field that causes the permalloy strip to resonate. This resonance generates a signal that the receiver detects, triggering an alarm.
To deactivate a tag after a sale, store staff use a deactivator that demagnetizes the metal strip inside the label. This process prevents the tag from resonating again, ensuring it no longer triggers alarms when exiting the store.
Main Components of an AM Security System
- AM Security Gates: Installed at store entrances to detect unpaid merchandise. Systems can be configured with one, two, or three gates depending on the width of the store entrance.
- Soft Tags: Disposable security labels made of PS plastic, adhesive backing, and internal metal strips. They are single-use and need to be deactivated upon purchase.
- Deactivator: A device used to neutralize soft tags after payment.
- Hard Tags: Reusable tags made of ABS plastic, a magnetic lock, and a pin. They can be attached to clothing, shoes, bags, and other items.
- Detacher: A magnetic device used to remove hard tags safely after a customer has paid.
Recommended AM System Setups for Different Stores
Depending on the type of store, the combination of equipment may vary:
- Clothing Stores: Security Gates + Hard Tags + Detacher
- Supermarkets: Security Gates + Hard Tags + Detacher + Soft Tags + Deactivator
- Perfume Shops: Security Gates + Soft Tags + Deactivator
- Hardware Stores: Security Gates + Hard Tags + Deactivator
- Convenience Stores: Security Gates + Soft Tags + Deactivator
Why Choose AM Systems?
AM systems are known for their strong resistance to interference, wide detection range, and low false alarm rate. Unlike RF systems, AM tags are less affected by metallic environments, making them ideal for a broader range of store layouts.
Whether you run a boutique or a large supermarket, implementing a professional AM system can significantly reduce shoplifting incidents and enhance the overall shopping experience by offering discreet yet powerful protection.