Abstract: A card protection device and method of protecting data stored on a contactless smartcard are disclosed. The card protection device may include an antenna, a detector circuit, and an alerting circuit. The antenna may include a magnetic loop that is coupled to a tuning circuit responsive to magnetic field emissions in a frequency band associated with contactless smartcard communications. The detector circuit is coupled to the antenna and may include control logic for attenuating the magnetic field emissions based on smartcard operating characteristics. The detector circuit can store energy associated with the magnetic field emissions and the alerting circuit can provide an audible and/or visual alert using the stored energy. Optionally, the card protection device may be integrated with other smartcard communication functions and/or it may share components with a contactless smartcard.

Abstract: A security device for an item of merchandise is provided. The security device includes a non-programmable locking mechanism comprising a mechanical lock and a programmable locking mechanism comprising a monitoring circuit operatively coupled to an alarm. The security device is configured to secure an item of merchandise from theft or removal when the mechanical lock is locked and to be separated from the item of merchandise when the mechanical lock is unlocked. The alarm is configured to provide an alarm signal if the security device is separated from the item of merchandise while the monitoring circuit is armed.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: Alarming cables, assemblies and systems for displaying and protecting a powered article of merchandise from theft include an alarm unit disposed between a first cable having a first connector for connection to a power source and a second cable having a second connector for connection to the merchandise. An alarm unit connector may connect the second cable to the alarm unit. The alarm unit and the alarm unit connector may each include a connection member to electrically connect the merchandise with the alarm unit and the power source when the alarm unit connector aligns with and engages the alarm unit.

Abstract: A power device may include channels coupled to conductors in lines, where each one of the channels is coupled to a different one of the lines than the other channels and where the channels deliver direct current power signals over the conductors to the load devices. Each one of the load devices may be powered by a different one of the direct current power signals. The power device may include a power communicator that communicates with the load devices over the conductors that propagate the direct current power signals. The power communicator may determine a target power level for the load devices based on the communication over the conductors. The load device may adjust an amount of power in the direct current power signals in order to match the target power level.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A cellular modem may give notice of changes in modes. The modem will change modes as a result of the breaking of a trip wire or the closing of contacts that are normally open or the opening of contacts that are normally closed or sensing motion or light, or sensing variations in resistance. One contact is provided to wake the unit from “sleep” and the other is provided to detect intrusion, motion, etc. Light detectors can detect light, such as when a closed container is opened. Closed contacts can be used in parallel to change any mode or open/closed contacts in parallel/series. The modem can be used to apprehend people breaking into or stealing luggage, equipment, boxes, etc. The present invention informs the user when the object being monitored is being moved or opened and can track the object's location.

Abstract: A system for protecting articles, especially displayed goods, from theft is typically configured to produce information about the article when a person is detected approaching the article or the article is moved but not taken. The system typically includes an alarm which may be sounded if the article is moved too far from the display position or under other conditions.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A merchandise display security device for an article of merchandise having an audio cord includes an electrical control circuit for producing a sense loop in the audio cord, monitoring a non-alarming state and an alarming state of the sense loop, and activating an alarm in the event that the sense loop changes from the non-alarming state to the alarming state. In one embodiment, the device includes a security sensor adapted for being attached to a media player. The security sensor has an audio jack for receiving an audio plug on the audio cord and includes an audio connector cord having an audio plug for engaging an audio jack on the media player. The security sensor may be electrically connected to an alarming base by a sense cord and include a power adapter cord for providing power to the media player through the sense cord and the power adapter cord.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for protecting against theft of wiring or other object formed of electrically conductive material in which the object is connected to a source of electrical power. The voltage of the object is sensed by a voltage sensor and a transmitter actuated when the voltage sensor detects a voltage change in the object.

Abstract: A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise includes means for retaining a power adapter cord on a sensor housing when the article of merchandise is attached to the sensor housing. The sensor housing includes a body configured for attachment to the article of merchandise and a power output port. A shelf adjacent the power output port includes an outer wall that defines a groove for receiving and retaining a portion of the power adapter cord. The portion of the power adapter cord is disposed within the groove and rotatable between an engaged, but uncoupled position in which the article of merchandise cannot be readily attached to the sensor housing and an engaged and coupled position in which the article of merchandise can be attached to the sensor housing and the power adapter cord is retained on the sensor housing.

Abstract: A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft is provided. The security device includes a mounting base and at least one movable member coupled to the mounting base and configured to releasably attach the mounting base to the article of merchandise. The security device may also include a housing configured to be secured to the mounting base.

Abstract: An anti-theft ring assembly includes a product engagement member having a display member that supports the ring during use and a securing member (for example a tear resistant tie or strap) that secures the ring to the display member; the anti-theft ring assembly also including an anchoring device having a support member and a tether for securing the product engagement member to the support member while allowing removal of the product engagement member from a display. In one embodiment, the support member may include a base having protrusions for connecting the tether thereto and the display member may be a seat for supporting a shank of the ring and a portion of the tether.

Abstract: Anti-theft protection systems and methods for portable devices, such as portable electronic devices, that are unattended during use. The anti-theft protection systems and methods use a combination of measures including mechanical aspects, such as tethering the device to an object that is difficult to move, and electronic aspects that detect unauthorized movement and or alarm the user or other responsible party if unauthorized movement occurs.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A display fixture for securely displaying a mobile device includes a cross brace and at least two corner members. The cross brace defines a center portion and arms each radially extending outwardly therefrom and terminating in a free end opposite the center portion. The at least two corner members each include a first substantially planar wall, a second substantially planar wall, and two sidewalls extending between substantially linear closed edges of the first substantially planar wall and the second substantially planar wall. A cavity is defined by each of the at least two corner members and is configured to receive a corner of the mobile device. Each of the at least two corner members is secured to a different free end of the cross brace such that an opening to the cavity of each of the at least two corner members faces the center portion of the cross brace.

Abstract: A self-shunting security system for detecting the absence or presence of a removable auxiliary alarm assembly for preventing theft of one or more products operatively connected to said system. A port is operatively attached to circuitry and is adapted to receive the removable auxiliary alarm assembly. A shunting assembly is also operatively attached to the circuitry and is disposed in relation to the port for detecting the absence or presence of the removable auxiliary alarm assembly within the port. The port and shunting assembly are in parallel electrical configuration. The shunting assembly automatically forms a first closed circuit when the removable auxiliary alarm assembly is not inserted into the port.

Abstract: A programmable security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station, a programmable key and a security system. The programming station generates a security code and communicates the security code to a memory of the programmable key. The programmable key initially communicates the security code to a memory of the security device and subsequently operates the security device upon a matching of the security code in the memory of the security device with the security code in the memory of the programmable key. The programmable key may also transfer power via electrical contacts or inductive transfer from an internal battery to the security device to operate a lock mechanism. The security code may be communicated by wireless infrared (IR) systems, electrical contacts or inductive transfer. A timer inactivates the programmable key and/or the security device after a predetermine period of time.

Abstract: A signal receiver unit for retail systems is provided. The signal receiver unit may include a receiver, a processor, and an output transmitter, and may be configured to receive and process an alarm signal and to transmit an output signal in response. The output signal may be configured to be received by an output receiving device such that store personnel may be alerted to a possible theft.

Abstract: A system and method for self-detecting vehicle theft is provided that includes a first antenna and a second antenna, both located on a vehicle. The first antenna transmits the signal and the second antenna receives the signal. A monitoring module in communication with the second antenna is configured to determine whether the signal has changed. A vehicle security system is configured to activate based on a change in the signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and an arrangement for visual indication of an electrical quantity, being one or several of power, current and/or voltage through a conductor. The arrangement comprises a substantially wire shaped illuminator and a controller which controls at least one illumination characteristic of said illuminator with respect to said electrical feature.

Abstract: Data center equipment location systems include hardware and software to provide information on the location, monitoring, and security of servers and other equipment in equipment racks. The systems provide a wired alternative to the wireless RFID tag system by using electronic ID tags connected to each piece of equipment, each electronic ID tag connected directly by wires to an equipment rack controller on the equipment rack. The equipment rack controllers link to a central control computer that provides an operator interface and communicates with the equipment rack controllers. The computer stores IDs of the equipment rack controllers and each of its connected electronic ID tags, and receives information from the tags to monitor the status of each piece of equipment. Further, the computer can activate a sensory indicator to enable a technician(s) to locate a piece of equipment that is in need of repair or replacement.

Abstract: The invention disclosed here is a display system for managing power and security for a plurality of hand-held electronic devices sold to consumers in a retail location. The display includes features that allow power to be supplied to individual devices and security sensors without continuous hard wiring or multi-conductor retractor cables. The display also allows for individual security alarms to be triggered when a theft occurs. Security alarm conditions are preferably triggered via wireless signals.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for objects on display is provided. The anti-theft device includes a containment body which accommodates internally at least one electric circuit provided with elements for closing the electric circuit. At least one cable is also provided, which has a first end accommodated in a corresponding seat defined in the containment body and a second end which can be inserted in an opening defined by the containment body in order to form a loop which can be associated with an object to be alarmed in such a manner that the object to be alarmed is in contact with the containment body. The anti-theft device includes elements for preventing the intrusion of foreign objects in the containment body in order to prevent the jamming of the cable in the containment body.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to anti-theft devices, systems, and methods. For example, an anti-theft device includes a lens ring assembly comprising a ring configured to removably engage a removable camera lens. The anti-theft device also includes a sensor cable assembly configured to attach to the lens ring assembly and to provide a signal indicative of an unauthorized removal of the lens ring assembly from the removable camera lens or removal of the sensor cable assembly from the lens ring assembly.

Abstract: A notebook computer stand includes a base and an anti-theft circuit received in the base. A number of supporting pads are positioned on the top surface of the base, to support a notebook computer. The anti-theft circuit includes a pressure sensitive switch, an alarm, a control switch, and a battery. The pressure sensitive switch, the alarm, and the control switch are connected in series. The pressure sensitive switch is positioned on one of the supporting pads. When the notebook computer is placed on the top surface, the pressure sensitive switch is open. The pressure sensitive switch is closed when not under the pressure applied by the weight of the notebook computer, and the battery supplies power to the alarm, the alarm works, when the control switch is closed.

Abstract: An apparatus to deter theft of a movable product is provided. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a housing, a plug connected to the housing to insert into an electrical socket to receive power, a bracket connected to the housing and having an opening to receive a locking cable while the opening of the bracket protrudes from the housing. A switch, within the housing, responsive to protrusion of the opening of the bracket from the housing to receive the locking cable. An electrical circuitry, within the housing, responsive to the switch being in a first state, and absence of power at the plug to sound an alarm, and responsive to the switch being in a second state or the presence of power at the plug to prevent sounding of the alarm.

Abstract: An electronic device has a chassis, and a printed wiring board (PWB) having a hole. A fastener is installed in the hole thereby securing the PWB to the chassis. A pair of conductive traces is formed in the PWB. A cap, being an amount of conductive glue, covers a part of the fastener and fills an electrically insulating gap between the two traces, to thereby form a conductive path that connects the two traces. A sensing circuit is coupled to the traces, to detect a change in impedance of the path and signal a tamper event alert. Other embodiments are also described and claimed.

Abstract: A container having a radio frequency identification tag attached thereto by means of a stud or a radio frequency identification tag retainer projecting from the exterior surface of the container. The container can be used to contain medical products, and the container can be of various types, such as, for example, a bottle, a micro-well plate, a cartridge, a tube. In one embodiment, the container has a radio frequency identification tag affixed thereto. The container comprises a mouth, a neck, a body, and a bottom. The container can also have a closure, a septum, or an adapter for other components of an automated clinical analyzer. The neck is capable of receiving a closure. A stud or a radio frequency identification tag retainer projecting from the bottom of the container, preferably the center of the bottom of the container, serves to retain the radio frequency identification during the attachment of the radio frequency identification tag to the container.

Abstract: A method for providing an alert to a person to unplug an electrical power cord of an electrical device or equipment includes an alarm device that is activated upon separation of a first portion from a second portion. The first and second portions of the alarm device are secured proximate opposite sides of a loop provided in the power cord. The first and second portions, when engaged, maintain a switch of an electrical circuit in an open position. If the equipment is moved prior to unplugging the power cord, the loop will be straightened, causing the first and second portions to separate. The switch closes, completing the electrical circuit and activating the alarm device. The alarm alerts the person to unplug the power cord. A first alternate method includes the alarm device as a part of newly manufactured equipment. A second alternate method includes a motion detector or sensor in the alarm device of the newly manufactured equipment.

Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods for monitoring a status of a plurality of a merchandise display devices for displaying items of merchandise at respective display positions. For example, the method includes monitoring for a change in a preselected characteristic of a circuit defined by an electrical connection between the security devices and a plurality of nodes and between the nodes and an alarm unit. The method also includes determining whether an item of merchandise has been added to or removed from a respective display position based on a change in the preselected characteristic.

Abstract: A package comprises a security device where a security loop is formed integrally with the package for detecting a breach of the package. Additionally, the security loop may be formed with a portion to be interrupted if the contents are removed from the package.

Abstract: In some implementations, a container monitoring device can include an electrically conductive cable for securing the doors of a shipping container. The container monitoring device can transmit a signal through the cable and detect when the cable has been cut or tampered with based on the transmitted signal. In some implementations, the conductive cable can be reused to secure the doors of the shipping container after the cable has been cut. In some implementations, the container monitoring device can wirelessly communicate with one or more sensor pods located inside the shipping container. The sensor pods can include various environmental sensors configured to take measurements of environmental conditions within the shipping container. The sensor pods can transmit the sensor measurements to the container monitoring device and the container monitoring device can report the sensor measurements to a server for review by a user.

Abstract: A retractable merchandise security tether with alarm is provided. The security tether includes a housing carrying a spool for winding an unwinding a cable therefrom. A security module is also packaged within the housing. The security module includes a sensor operable to detect the presence of a severed end of the cable within the housing. Upon detection, the security arrangement is operable to provide an indication of the presence of the severed end in the form of an alarm or other indication.

Abstract: A tracking device is incorporated into a band, such as a watch band or bracelet. The tracking device appears as an ordinary band, but cannot be removed by the individual wearing it. If necessary, the location of the tracking device can be determined by a central server and reported to the authorities or to the individual's family.

Abstract: An item tracking system including at least one signal emitting element directly or indirectly attached to a portion of at least one item, wherein at least a portion of the at least one signal emitting element extends from the at least one item. The system further includes a container, including: (i) a support surface configured to at least partially support the at least one item and having at least one opening extending therethrough, which is configured to at least partially receive at least a portion of the signal emitting element therethrough; and (ii) at least one signal receiving member configured for communication with the portion of the at least one signal emitting member extending through the at least one opening. An item tracking container and method of tracking are also disclosed.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system and/or a method provide an alarm, power and/or use of an electrical device. A dongle, a sensor, a cable, and/or an alarm may implement capacitive sensing technology to deter theft and/or a removal of the electronic device from an electrical connection. The electronic device may be on display and/or may be used, manipulated, tested and/or transported by users in an environment, such as a retail store. The sensor may incorporate an alarm that may enable a signal when the electronic device is unplugged therefrom.

Abstract: A system for protecting articles, especially displayed goods, from theft is typically configured to produce information about the article when a person is detected approaching the article or the article is moved but not taken. The system typically includes an alarm which may be sounded if the article is moved too far from the display position or under other conditions.

Abstract: A retractable merchandise security tether with alarm is provided. The security tether includes a housing carrying a spool for winding an unwinding a cable therefrom. A security module is also packaged within the housing. The security module includes a sensor operable to detect the presence of a severed end of the cable within the housing. Upon detection, the security arrangement is operable to provide an indication of the presence of the severed end in the form of an alarm or other indication.

Abstract: A system and method for displaying merchandise item is presented. A merchandise display system includes a display cabinet, an alarm unit and a key extension device. The display cabinet can display several different kinds of merchandise items. The alarm unit generates an alarm when one of the merchandise items is removed from a predetermined distance from the display cabinet. The key extension device can be mounted on the display cabinet away from the alarm unit to allow an electronic key to be inserted into the key extension devise to control the alarm unit.

Abstract: A data entry device including a housing formed of at least two portions, data entry circuitry located within the housing, at least one case-open switch assembly operative to sense when the housing is opened and tamper indication circuitry operative to receive an input from the at least one case-open switch assembly and to provide an output indication of possible tampering with the data entry circuitry located within the housing, the at least one case-open switch assembly including an arrangement of electrical contacts including at least first, second and third contacts and a displaceable conductive element, the tamper indication circuitry and the third contact together being operative such that when the third contact is short circuited to at least one of the first contact, the second contact and another contact, an output indication of possible tampering is provided.

Abstract: A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise is provided. For example, the security device comprises an alarm unit and a first connector electrically coupled to the alarm unit and configured to releasably engage the article of merchandise. The security device further comprises a second connector electrically coupled to the alarm unit. The second connector is configured to releasably engage an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) power supply cable such that the alarm unit is disposed between a source of electric power and the article of merchandise, and the power supply cable is configured to provide power to both the alarm unit and the article of merchandise. The alarm unit is configured to at least one of activate an alarm in the event that the first connector is removed from the article of merchandise or the second connector is removed from the power supply cable.

Abstract: A process for monitoring containers including use of a severable security lock with an radio frequency identification (RFID) antenna adapted sever upon dislocation of the lock. The process utilizes an electronic identification number to ensure security lock integrity. The process includes detecting the security lock in transit by the use of mobile and fixed transmission units at regional boundaries. Updates are provided to an event log associated with the security lock.

Abstract: An apparatus to deter theft of a movable product is provided. In one aspect, the apparatus comprises a housing, a plug connected to the housing to insert into an electrical socket to receive power, a bracket connected to the housing and having an opening to receive a locking cable while the opening of the bracket protrudes from the housing. A switch, within the housing, responsive to protrusion of the opening of the bracket from the housing to receive the locking cable. An electrical circuitry, within the housing, responsive to the switch being in a first state, and absence of power at the plug to sound an alarm, and responsive to the switch being in a second state or the presence of power at the plug to prevent sounding of the alarm.

Abstract: A power connector has a plate member that has a central opening therethrough, and a front side and rear side. An electrical connector member is attached to the plate member and positioned within the central opening. The electrical connector member has a base that is attached to the plate member and a plurality of power pole electrical conductors. The plurality of power pole electrical conductors comprises four power pole electrical conductors arranged in two columns wherein each column has two power pole electrical conductors. Two brackets are attached to the front side of the plate member. Each bracket is substantially perpendicular to the front side of the plate member and the electrical connector member is located between the pair of brackets. The plate member has through holes sized for receiving fasteners, so as to allow the plate member to be attached to a wall, article of furniture or other structure.

Abstract: Security systems and methods configured for use with an item of merchandise for retail display are provided. In one example, a security system includes at least one sensor operably coupled to the item of merchandise and at least one alarm module operably coupled to, and configured to communicate with, the at least one sensor. The alarm module is configured to generate a first alarm signal in response to the item of merchandise being handled in an abnormal manner, and the alarm module is further configured to generate a second alarm signal in response to the item of merchandise continuing to be handled in an abnormal manner. In general, the second alarm signal is different than the first alarm signal.

Abstract: A merchandise security device for displaying an electronic item of merchandise includes a strain relief block configured for attachment to the merchandise and an alarming power cable configured for being electrically coupled to a power input port provided on the merchandise. The alarming power cable is routed through the strain relief block for reducing strain applied to the alarming power cable, which may prevent damaging the power input port or the portion of the alarming power cable extending between the strain relief block and the power input port.

Abstract: Methods and other embodiments associated with a display stand with a tether stop are presented. In the preferred embodiment, a display stand includes a base, a mounting member, a tether, a recoiler, and a cable stop. The mounting member is adapted for mounting thereon a display item and is movable between a mounted position in contact with the base. The mounting member is configured to be removed from the base to facilitate viewing and handling of the display item. The tether includes a connector located at one end of the tether to attach the tether to the mounting member. The recoiler recoils the tether. The cable stop moves to a first position to allow the connector to pass through an opening in the base and to a second position to prevent the connector from passing through the opening.