Abstract: A security tag, attachable to an article of merchandise by means of a tack received by the tag, includes means for sensing the presence of the head of the tack. The sensing means causes activation of an alarm circuit in response to displacement of the tack head relative to the tag resulting, for example, from an unauthorized attempt to withdraw the tack from the tag, or severance of the tack head. The tack may be coupled to the tag by means of a length of coaxial cable which may be used to attach the tag to an article to be safeguarded. The cable includes a pair of conductors normally insulated from each other. Contact between the conductors caused, for example, by an attempt to cut the cable, results in activation of the alarm circuit.

Abstract: An electronic security system for monitoring merchandise and the like is provided which is responsive to any change of state in the electrical connections thereto thus providing for the detection of virtually any tampering with the merchandise or security system. Conductive loop sensors attached to the merchandise are releasably coupled to series-connected modular sensor monitoring units which in turn are connected to a single control box enclosing latching and alarm circuits. Each monitoring unit is preferably adapted to receive a plurality of conductive loops. Severing of any of the loops, as well as disconnection or reconnection of the loops, the monitoring units or the control box activates the alarm. A time-out circuit controls the length of time of alarm activation and is switchable between long and short alarm durations.Means facilitating the mounting of the manifold units and control box on existing T-stand and wall rack clothing displays, are also disclosed.