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EM (Electromagnetic), RF (Radio Frequency), and
RFID (Radio Frequency
Identification) are the most popular security system technologies used in
libraries, schools, and colleges today.
Security
System Common Features
·
 Sensors, which are also known as antennas or
gates, depending on the technology, are placed at entrances/exits to create a
patron security corridor or aisle. The number of sensors that you will need
depends upon the width of the entrance/exit and the number of entrances/exits
that exist. Sensors must be installed a certain distance away from computer
terminals and equipment. This distance will vary depending upon the
technology that you choose. You will find placement requirements for each
technology within the “Technology Specific” text below.
·
 Targets, which are also known
as beepers, tags, smart tags, strips or Tattle-Tape™, are placed
on/in library material enabling detection of "unchecked" library
material when passing through the patron security aisle. Targets are
available in various formats and are typically hidden or disguised so that
patrons are not aware of them. All systems offer accessories such as self
check-out stations; accessories vary depending on the technology chosen. You
will find this information in the "Technology Specific" text below.
·
Preparation for your security system is vital. If you are
constructing a new library, the system layout should be discussed with your architect.
The architect can then install conduit (tubing that encases the system’s
wiring) in the floor. This will allow the security system to be installed
directly on top of the finished floor—there is no need for ramps or strips to
encase the wiring. If you are installing a security system in an existing
library it is important to understand each of the security system
technologies and how they will function within your library. Each system must
be installed a certain distance away from metal doorways, computer terminals
and circulation desks. This distance will vary depending on the technology
you choose.
Technology
Specific Information
 EM (Electromagnetic)
Technology: Electromagnetic security systems operate on a magnetic
basis. Sensors partner with the targets. If the targets are not "turned
off" by a magnetic device, an alarm is sounded via the sensors as a
patron passes through with a hidden target. Targets consist of strips of
metal with magnetic particles for degaussing (desensitizing and resensitizing).
This is accomplished by using high-powered magnets to negate the magnetic
property of the strip. A library staff member rubs the area of the strip
location with a magnetic device to "turn off" the strip allowing
the patron to pass through the patron security corridor created by the
sensors without sounding the alarm. When library materials are returned, they
are then resensitized or "turned on" by a library staff member. A
variety of desktop and handheld devices are available for demagnetizing (desensitizing)
and remagnetizing (resensitizing) materials. Security strips are available
for books, CDs, DVDs, videocassettes and audiocassettes. The circulation of
audiovisual materials requires the purchase of demagnetizers and
remagnetizers for these specific forms of media. EM systems use standard
110/120 VAC power. EM sensors must be installed a certain distance away from
metal doorways, computer terminals and circulation desks. This distance will
vary depending on the number of existing computers.
3M™ 3500
Series Detection System
 RF (Radio Frequency)
Technology: Radio Frequency security systems operate on a low-end
radio frequency. The FM frequency used for RF systems is set and regulated by
the FCC (Federal Communication Commission) and will not interfere with other
FM frequencies such as radio stations. Security targets are applied to
circulating library materials and are already "turned on". To
"turn off" the target you insert a detuning card (a specially
constructed date due card) into the card pocket to cover the target. This
detunes or interrupts the signal and allows the patron to pass through the
security aisle formed by the antennas sensors without sounding the alarm.
Upon return of library materials, a staff member removes the card to once
again "turn on" the target. RF technology is safe for use with
audiovisual media and does not require desensitizing or resensitizing of
materials. RF technology does not interfere with pacemakers or hearing aids
and cannot be falsely activated by jewelry, buckles or coins. RF systems are
hardwired through a standard, existing outlet. RF sensors must be installed a
certain distance away from metal doorways, computer terminals and circulation
desks. This distance is less than the EM system requires.
Checkpoint
Detection Systems
RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) Technology: Radio Frequency Identification
operate on a low-end radio frequency. The FM frequency used for RFID systems
is regulated by the FCC (Federal Communication Commission) and will not
interfere with other FR frequencies such as radio stations. RFID systems
provide more than just security. RFID is a complete suite of tools for
managing your library’s inventory from the check-out process to the check-in
and reshelving of returned items. This combination of both identification and
anti-theft in the RFID tag represents a technology break-through for
libraries, reports VTLS, Inc. RFID systems require sensors and targets
just as EM and RF systems do. RFID makes bar codes obsolete in that the
targets require no line of sight. These targets contain security bits which
are used in conjunction with the sensors. This technology can read more than
one target at a time (batch processing), significantly speeding up the
check-out process. RFID systems are time-savers for completing inventory,
shelf locating, weeding, and check-in and check-out processing. Staff time is
freed up by these RFID abilities. Various accessories are available for RFID
as well. RFID offers accessories from patron self check-out stations to book
drops with sensors that automatically check materials back into inventory upon
deposit to the book drop. RFID technology integrates with any system
currently in place. The RFID system is suggested for use in all libraries,
and especially in newly constructed or renovated libraries.
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