EM Strips

An EM strip (Electromagnetic strip) is a type of security tag or Library security label commonly used in libraries to prevent theft of books and other printed materials. It works as part of an EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) system that uses electromagnetic fields to detect unauthorized removal of items.

What Is an EM Strip?

A thin, flexible metal strip, often made from amorphous or magnetostrictive alloy.

Typically about 4–6 cm long and embedded inside books, between pages or in the spine.

Inexpensive and durable, it can remain in a book for years.

How It Works:

Active (Magnetized) State:

When the EM strip is magnetized, it responds to the alternating EM field at the security gate.

If detected, it triggers an alarm—indicating the item is not checked out.

Deactivated (Demagnetized) State:

When a patron checks out the book, the strip is demagnetized using an EM deactivator.

In this state, it won’t trigger the gate.

Reactivation:

Upon return, library staff or automated systems remagnetize the strip so it’s again protected.

Key Features of security tag:

Stealthy: Can be hidden in the book’s binding or page.

Reusable: Unlike RF tags, EM strips can be reactivated.

Durable: Works for thousands of uses.

Function: EM strips are designed to be detected by EM security gates. When an active (not deactivated) strip passes through the gate’s electromagnetic field, it triggers an alarm.

Construction: They are typically thin, flexible strips containing a magnetic material. They often have an adhesive backing for easy attachment.

Deactivation/Reactivation: A key feature of EM strips, especially in libraries, is that they can be deactivated when an item is legitimately borrowed or sold and reactivated upon return. This is done using an EM label deactivator/reactivator.

Concealment: EM strips are often designed to be concealed within items, such as inside the spine of a book or within packaging. This makes them less obvious and harder for potential thieves to remove.

Types: EM strips come in various sizes and formats depending on the application:

Book Strips: Longer, thinner strips designed to be placed inside books (often in the spine). They can be single-sided or double-sided adhesive. Some have a “tail” to aid insertion.

CD/DVD Strips/Labels: Smaller strips or labels designed to be attached to CD and DVD cases or discs.

Compatibility: EM strips are designed to work with EM security systems from various manufacturers (e.g., 3M Tattle-Tape, Bibliotheca, FE Technologies, etc.).

In summary, EM strips are the fundamental component that provides the security in an EM antitheft system. Their ability to be deactivated and reactivated makes them particularly well-suited for library use.

Common Uses of Library security label :

Public, academic, and school libraries.

Archives and document security.

Often paired with manual or automated check-in/check-out systems.

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