How are EAS tags deactivated?

EAS (Electronic Article Surveillance) tags are deactivated in a variety of ways, depending on the specific type of tag and the system used.

Magnetic Deactivation: Many EAS tags use magnetic fields to trigger alarms when they pass through detection systems. To deactivate these tags, a magnetic field is applied to the tag, usually by a handheld device or a fixed deactivation unit. This magnetic field alters the tag's internal magnetic properties, preventing it from triggering alarms.

Radio Frequency (RF) Deactivation: RF EAS tags use radio signals to communicate with detection systems. To deactivate these tags, a specific RF signal is sent to the tag, usually by a handheld device or a fixed deactivation unit. This signal causes the tag to stop responding to detection systems.

Physical Destruction: Some EAS tags can be deactivated by physically destroying or damaging them. This may involve cutting, puncturing, or otherwise breaking the tag. However, this method is generally not preferred because it can be time-consuming and difficult to ensure that all tags have been deactivated.

Combined Methods: Some EAS systems use a combination of magnetic and RF technologies. In these cases, deactivation may involve applying both a magnetic field and an RF signal to the tag.

The specific deactivation method used will depend on the type of EAS tags being used, the detection system in place, and the preferences of the retailer or organization deploying the EAS system. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations for properly deactivating EAS tags to ensure that they are effectively disabled and no longer pose a risk of triggering alarms.