EAS Technology

No Bias — EASecure Offers Both AM and RF

EASecure is technology neutral. We offer both RF (Radio Frequency) and AM (Acousto-Magnetic) solutions, so our advice is based on the store layout, product mix, budget and real-world performance — not on pushing one technology over another.

Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems reduce theft by creating a detection zone at store exits. When an active security label or tag passes through this zone without being removed or deactivated at checkout, the system triggers an alarm.

The two most widely used EAS technologies are RF and AM. Both serve the same purpose, but they differ in detection range, gate design and real-world retail performance.
Technology profile

RF (Radio Frequency)

  • Frequency: 8.2 MHz radio waves
  • Typical detection range: up to 1.85 m
  • Lower installation cost and broad retailer acceptance
  • Commonly used with flat adhesive soft labels
  • Fast and easy deactivation at checkout
Limitations
  • Poorer performance around metal items, where radio frequency behaviour can disrupt reliable detection
  • Generally more prone to false alarms
  • Detection is usually limited to visible doorway pedestal formats
Technology profile

AM (Acousto-Magnetic)

  • Frequency: 58 kHz magnetic / acoustic response
  • Typical detection range: up to 2.7 m
  • Much wider detection zone than RF
  • Highly resistant to electronic interference
  • Generally fewer false alarms
  • Reliable detection near metal and foil packaging
  • Supports concealed and in-floor antenna installations
Limitations
  • Labels are thicker and have a more raised profile
  • Labels cannot be bent or printed on
  • AM labels, often referred to as DR labels, are generally more expensive than RF labels
RF / Radio Frequency

RF

A continuous signal used to detect a tagged item at the exit

RF stands for Radio Frequency. In retail, it is commonly used as an electronic article surveillance system to help detect products leaving the store without being deactivated or removed at checkout.

How it works

The gates create a continuous signal between them. A compatible RF tag or label on the product reacts when it enters that field.

In plain English: RF is an always-on signal looking for a reaction from a tag.
AM / Acousto-Magnetic

AM

A pulse-and-listen system designed for very clear detection

AM stands for Acousto-Magnetic. Instead of sending a continuous signal, the system sends a short pulse and then listens for the tag to respond.

How it works

The gates send out a brief magnetic pulse. The AM tag reacts by vibrating and sending back a recognisable signal.

In plain English: AM sends a quick signal, goes quiet, and listens for a very clear reply from the tag.
RFID / Radio Frequency Identification

RFID

Item-level identification used for inventory visibility and product tracking

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification. Unlike RF and AM, RFID is designed to identify each item individually using a unique ID stored on the tag.

How it works

An RFID reader sends out a signal to nearby tags. Each tag responds with its own unique identity, allowing the software to match that ID to product information.

In plain English: RFID does not just tell you that something is there — it tells you exactly what it is.

The simplest way to understand the difference

RF

A continuous signal used to detect an active tag passing through the exit.

AM

A pulse-and-listen system where the tag gives a clear response after the signal is sent.

RFID

A product identification technology that gives each item its own identity within the system.

EAS Sectors
DIY & Home Improvement
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

DIY stores contain many metal items and dense fixtures that interfere with RF. AM performs reliably and supports wider gate spacing.

Fashion & Apparel
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

AM allows wider entrances and concealed installations, creating a cleaner storefront experience for fashion retailers.

Health, Beauty & Pharmacies
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

AM provides superior detection in busy environments and maintains performance against foil-lined concealment attempts.

Supermarkets & Hypermarkets
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

RF dominates due to low-cost labels and high volumes, while AM is used in higher-risk zones or wider entrances.

Consumer Electronics
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

AM systems work well around metal-rich products and support concealed installations at wide entrances.

Sporting Goods
AM
0%
AM Technology
RF
0%
RF Technology

Why it trends this way

AM suits wide entrances and bulky merchandise, providing consistent detection across large store layouts.