As theft prevention becomes an increasingly critical concern for retail stores, Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) systems have become a popular and effective method of reducing shoplifting. However, for these systems to function properly, precise installation and adherence to the manufacturer’s specifications are essential. Failing to follow the installation guidelines can result in reduced detection range, system malfunctions, and even costly false alarms. This article explores the importance of proper preparation and the key considerations for installing EAS systems in retail environments.
Why Correct Installation Matters
EAS systems function by detecting special tags or labels attached to merchandise. Pedestals installed at store exits act as antennas that trigger an alarm if a tag passes through without being deactivated or removed. The effectiveness of these systems is highly dependent on several factors, including pedestal placement, electrical setup, and conduit installation. Ignoring these details can compromise the system’s ability to protect store inventory.
1. Optimal Pedestal Placement
One of the primary considerations in EAS installation is the proper placement of the pedestals. For example, in the case of most of our AM EAS systems, we recommend the conduit be installed so that it stubs up 18 inches from the wall to the center of the pedestal. Additionally, the distance between pedestals must not exceed 72 inches, and they should be positioned 18 inches back from the wall to ensure maximum coverage and prevent interference. These distances are critical to ensure that the pedestals are aligned properly to detect tags as they pass through the exit.
Similarly, most RF EAS systems specify a conduit that should stub up 28 inches from the wall and that pedestals must not be more than 72 inches apart. The difference in the measurements between these two systems highlights the importance of carefully reviewing and following the manufacturer’s guidelines for each specific system, as different models have unique requirements for optimal performance.
2. Electrical Requirements
Proper electrical setup is another crucial factor in the effective functioning of EAS systems. For both AM and RF systems, it is recommended to use a 120VAC, 3-wire, shielded circuit that operates on a dedicated 24-hour circuit with less than 0.5 VAC between neutral and ground. Ensuring this level of electrical stability reduces the chances of false alarms caused by electrical interference, which can be both disruptive and costly for retailers.
Moreover, the dedicated electrical outlet should be located 10 feet above the ground, preventing the system from being unplugged improperly and ensuring that it receives a consistent power supply without interference from other devices. These electrical specifications are vital to the smooth operation of the system, as any variance in power can cause malfunctions or poor detection rates.
3. Conduit Installation and Alignment
Conduit installation is another often overlooked but critical aspect of EAS system setup. For both the AM and RF systems, a 3/4" metal (rigid or EMT) conduit is required under the floor with a pull string to facilitate future maintenance or repairs. The conduit should run parallel to the wall, ensuring a clean and unobstructed path for communication between the pedestals.
In the case of AM EAS systems, the conduit must stub up 18 inches from the wall to the center of the primary pedestal, while in the RF system, this distance is 28 inches. Following these specific guidelines ensures that the EAS antennas inside the pedestals are aligned correctly, allowing for the detection of tags without interference from physical obstacles or electrical noise.
The Consequences of Improper Installation
Failure to adhere to these detailed installation instructions can result in a variety of issues for retailers. If pedestals are installed too far apart, there may be gaps in coverage, allowing merchandise to pass through the exit without triggering an alarm. On the other hand pedestals can interfere with each other, leading to false alarms. Poor electrical setup can cause the system to malfunction or be less sensitive, reducing its overall effectiveness.
In a retail environment, where hundreds or thousands of dollars in inventory can be at stake, ensuring the correct installation of EAS systems is not just a matter of following best practices—it’s a necessity. Proper installation provides peace of mind that the store is well-protected against theft, and it ensures that the EAS system can function at its full potential.
Conclusion
Installing an EAS system in a retail store is an investment in security, but the return on that investment depends on careful preparation and adherence to installation guidelines. As outlined in the article, proper electrical configuration, and accurate conduit installation are essential for these systems to work effectively. By following the specific recommendations provided by the manufacturers, retailers can maximize the detection capabilities of their EAS systems and protect their merchandise more effectively.
In short, following these detailed installation guidelines ensures that the EAS system provides the security coverage intended, reducing shoplifting risks and allowing for smooth, efficient operation.
***The specific installation recommendations in this article are made by the author and may not match those provided by the manufacturer. Always verify the specifications of your specific system.