EAS Library Security Gate EM Library Book Detection System

An EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) Library Security Gate with an EM (Electromagnetic) Library Book Detection System is a type of anti-theft system used in libraries to prevent unauthorized removal of library materials.

System Components

1. EM Security Strips (Tags):
   • Thin, flexible strips placed inside or on library materials (often between pages or in the spine).
   • Usually made of amorphous metal that responds to electromagnetic fields.
2. Deactivation/Activation Unit:
   • At checkout, the strip is deactivated (demagnetized) when the item is properly checked out.
   • When returned, it’s reactivated (magnetized) for security.
3. Security Gate (Detection System):
   • Installed at the library exit.
   • Emits a low-frequency electromagnetic field.
   • If an active EM strip passes through, it disrupts the field and triggers an alarm.

How EM Library Book Detection Systems with Security Gates Work:

1. EM Tags/Strips: Each book or item has a small, often inconspicuous, magnetic strip (EM tag) placed inside. These tags can be deactivated and reactivated.
2. Security Gates: At the library’s exits, pedestals or gates emit a low-frequency electromagnetic field.
3. Detection: If an item with an active (not deactivated) EM tag passes through this electromagnetic field, it disrupts the field.
4. Alarm: This disruption is detected by sensors in the gates, which then trigger an audible and/or visual alarm to alert library staff.
5. Deactivation/Reactivation:
   • When a book is borrowed, the EM tag is deactivated at the circulation desk using a special device (demagnetizer). This allows the item to be taken out without setting off the alarm.
   • When the book is returned, the EM tag can be reactivated (sensitized) for future security.

Key Features and Benefits of EM Library Security Gate Systems:

• Effective Theft Deterrent: The presence of the gates and the alarm system discourages people from trying to steal books.
• Works with Hidden Tags: EM tags can be easily concealed within books (e.g., between pages or in the spine), making them less obvious to potential thieves.
• Reliable Detection: EM technology is generally reliable for detecting these magnetic strips.
• Can Detect Stacked Items: Unlike some other technologies, EM systems can often detect tags even when books are stacked.
• Less Interference from Metal: EM systems are less prone to false alarms caused by personal metal items (like keys or phones) compared to some other EAS technologies like RF.
• Cost-Effective: EM systems are often considered one of the more affordable EAS options for libraries.

Components of an EM Library Book Detection System:

• EM Security Gates/Antennas: The pedestals at the library exit that create the detection zone. They come in various designs and materials (e.g., plexiglass, metal).
• EM Tags/Strips: The magnetic strips placed in the books and other materials. These come in different sizes and formats (e.g., tail tags designed to be inserted into the spine).
• Deactivator/Reactivator: A device used by library staff to deactivate tags when items are checked out and reactivate them upon return. These can be standalone units or integrated into the circulation desk.

In summary, an EM Library Book Detection System with Security Gates is a common and effective way for libraries to protect their collections from theft using electromagnetic technology to detect un-deactivated magnetic tags on library materials as they pass through the exit.

Advantages of EM Systems

• Highly reliable for books and printed materials.
• Tags are durable and reusable.
• Works even if the tag is hidden inside the book.
• Minimal false alarms if system is well-calibrated.

Limitations

• Can be bypassed if the strip is removed or damaged.
• Requires manual activation/deactivation.
• Not ideal for items like CDs/DVDs (RFID is better there).

FaceBook Page