Abstract: A remotely controlled access system for a plurality of containers consisting of a plurality of intelligent access mechanisms for locking the containers, the intelligent access mechanisms being configured in a network to facilitate communication therebetween and with a central command node. Requests for access can be communicated from the central command node to the intelligent access mechanisms and event information can be communicated form the intelligent access mechanisms back to the central command node.

Abstract: An improved electronic article security system is employed for detecting the presence of a security tag within a detection zone. The system includes a transmitter for generating electromagnetic energy and, in the disclosed embodiment, a single antenna for emitting electromagnetic energy received from the transmitter to establish an electromagnetic field within the detection zone and for sensing disturbances within the electromagnetic field, including disturbances resulting from a security tag within the detection zone. A receiver is provided for processing signals from the antenna relating to sensed disturbances and for providing output signals. A data processing and control section analyzes the output signals from the receiver and determines whether a sensed disturbance within the electromagnetic field is caused by the presence of a security tag within the detection zone.