Abstract: An electrical apparatus with an alarm includes an electrical device and an alarm system, the electrical device and the alarm system being both connected to an external power supply. The alarm system includes a wireless communication circuit and a control module. The control module is connected between the external power supply and the wireless communication circuit. The control module controls the wireless communication circuit to send an alarm notification when the electrical device is disconnected from the external power supply.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with charging merchandise items are presented. A method of charging merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. The merchandise items are charged at the display on a multiplexed basis.

Abstract: A simulation system includes a two-dimensional electrical grid installed in a floor or floor mat. Signals from boot mounted transmitters can be sensed via the grid to track boot locations in real-time during training exercises.

Abstract: A data center server location system includes both hardware and software to provide for location and identification of servers and other equipment in equipment racks. The system provides 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 a equipment rack controller on the equipment rack. The equipment rack controllers then link over a local area network to a central control computer. The central control computer provides an operator interface, and runs a software application program that communicates with the equipment rack controllers and stores relationship information to enable locating servers associated with each of the ID tags.

Abstract: A security device for preventing the theft of merchandise or other articles that provides for a closed loop system that is self-shunting without the need for removable shunt plugs. The preferred device comprises a plurality of jacks attached to a circuit board for receiving connector plug assemblies that are operatively connected to the articles through sensors. When the connector plug assemblies are not within a jack, a jack contact will engage a nail contact to close a circuit, thereby shunting the jack. Insertion of the connector plug assembly will deflect the jack contact away from the nail contact and create a second closed loop indicating that the jack is in use, and which will monitor and warn of any tampering with the sensor on the article.

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 apparatus for deterring removal of electrical wiring that is installed in a building includes a controller, and a wiring module responsive to the controller and forming a monitored circuit with installed electrical wiring by coupling to an end of the wiring located at a load distribution junction. The other end of the wiring is electrically coupled, and can be coupled with a controlled impedance, or with a protected asset. The apparatus is configured with control logic to issue an alert if the integrity of the monitored circuit has been compromised.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with protecting merchandise items are presented. A method of protecting merchandise items includes displaying a plurality of merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. Each merchandise item is connected to the consumer display with a corresponding tether. A first alarm is generated when one of the consumer items is removed from one of the corresponding tethers. A second alarm is generated that is different than the first alarm when one of the tethers is severed.

Abstract: A security system for portable articles is provided. The security system includes a central unit and one or more remote units. Each remote unit has a tethering system which attaches one or more portable articles to the remote unit. When a portable article is detached from the remote unit, a remote alarm signal is generated, which is conveyed to the central unit via a radiofrequency transmission. The central unit confirms receipt of an alarm transmission, and activates a dialer, which contacts one or more individuals via telephone.

Abstract: A pressure sensing device, such as a tire pressure monitoring unit comprises a pressure sensor for measuring pressure of a fluid, such as air or an inert gas, in an environment external to the device, such as within the cavity of a tire. A hollow resonator, or standing wave tube, is coupled to the pressure sensor. The resonator has a free end exposed to the external environment to the extent that pressure variations in the fluid are propagated through the hollow resonator to the pressure sensor via the free end. The hollow resonator has a resonant frequency substantially matching a target frequency such that resonance is established in the tube at the resonant frequency in response to the presence of an audio signal in the fluid having a frequency that substantially matches the target frequency.

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with protecting merchandise items are presented. A method of protecting merchandise items includes displaying merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. A detection is made if one merchandise items has been moved beyond a predetermined authorized distance from the consumer display. The method determines if an authorized key is detected within a predetermined key distance from the consumer display.

Abstract: An electronic device with anti-theft protection includes an alarm unit, a mercury connector, and a microprocessor connected therebetween. The mercury connector includes a body containing mercury, and first and second leads arranged on the body. The microprocessor includes a first signal terminal and a second signal terminal. The first signal terminal is connected to the first lead. The second signal terminal is connected to the second lead. When the microprocessor has entered the anti-theft mode, if the electronic device is moved, the first lead connects to the second lead via the mercury and forms a circuit path from the first signal terminal to the second signal terminal. The microprocessor starts the alarm unit to generate an alarm.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.

Abstract: According to some example embodiments, systems, apparatus, methods and computer program products are provided for triggering an alarm. In this regard, one example apparatus includes means for receiving an instruction to alarm a security gate device, and means for tuning a security resonator at a location such that a field generated by the security gate device interacts with the security resonator to cause the security gate device to trigger an alarm in response to at least receiving the instruction to alarm the security gate device.

Abstract: The disclosure is directed to a sensor device including processing circuitry, at least one sensor coupled to the processing circuitry, a serial data interface coupled to the processing circuitry and memory responsive to the processing circuitry. The memory includes a static unique identification number. The serial data interface provides access to retrieve the static unique identification number and sensed data measured with the at least one sensor from the memory.

Abstract: A secure container for controlling and monitoring access to at least one secured bag locking device is disclosed. The secure container is lockable to prevent access by unauthorized parties, and may include any feature of prior art secure containers, such as shock detection or a camera to photograph access. The secure container contains a number of rails to provide power to and monitor the status of docked secured bag locking devices. In addition, the secure container includes an antenna to allow secured devices to be tethered to it via communications with an active radio frequency identification tag secured to the tethered device.

Abstract: A security system and method for protecting an item of merchandise includes a programming station including a logic control circuit having a controller, a communication circuit operably coupled to the controller, and a memory operably coupled to the controller for initially providing a security disarm code (SDC) to a programmable key including a logic control circuit having a controller, a communication circuit operably coupled to the controller and a memory operably coupled to the controller. The programmable key subsequently provides the SDC to a security device configured for attachment to the merchandise and including a logic control circuit having a controller, a communication circuit operably coupled to the controller, and a memory operably coupled to the controller. Thereafter, the security device is disarmed by using the programmable key to verify the SDC in the memory of the key with the SDC in the memory of the security device.

Abstract: A method for monitoring a group of objects, and an arrangement to implement the method includes providing each object of the group to be monitored with a radio node of a self-networking radio network, whereby each radio node within the group has a unique identification. The radio nodes of the group automatically reveal themselves at a starting time and network with one another. The radio nodes of the group monitor themselves from the starting time and convey at least one specified change in an initial mutual situation. At least one of the radio nodes when notifying or recognizing a specified change, conveys information concerning the change to a monitoring unit and/or controls an alarm transmitter for activating an alarm.

Abstract: An integrated theft deterrent tag 20 having a lanyard 38 emanating therefrom. The lanyard 38 having a pin 48 permanently attached thereto and the pin 48 being received within a locking mechanism 32 and enclosing an article to be protected.

Abstract: A remote sensing device includes a plurality of components arranged to form a resonant electrical circuit. The plurality of components includes at least one sensing component having sensing elements distributed among regions of an area of interest. The sensing elements are arranged so that a resonant characteristic of the resonant circuit is modifiable by an external event affecting an element associated with a region. The sensing component may be a capacitor having spatially distributed capacitive elements or an inductor having spatially distributed inductive elements.

Abstract: A container seal device is provided that comprises a seal device for a shipping container, comprising a first unit that is affixed to a shipping container. A control system is contained in the first unit containing a control system. A second unit is provided that is configured to engage with an element of a door of a shipping container to which the first unit is affixed and to electrically connect with the control system in the first unit. The control system in the first unit is configured to detect a breach of the second unit indicative of access being made to the shipping container.

Abstract: A theft protection for an electronic device, in particular an optionally portable computer, a mobile telephone or a PDA, includes an electrical cable (2) with a coupling connector (3) for coupling to a corresponding coupling connector of the device. Alarm elements are connected to the cable (2) which are able and adapted to generate an alarm signal in the case the device is stolen. The alarm elements (4) are accommodated in a housing (1) separate from the device. The housing is provided with fastening elements (5) for a mechanical connection of the housing to a fixed object (9). The alarm elements include detection elements which are adapted and able to detect an interruption of the electrical cable connection (2), in addition to signalling elements (4) which generate the alarm signal when the interruption is detected.

Abstract: A data storage and retrieval system that comprises a data storage device is disclosed. The data storage and retrieval system further comprises a first LED, a second LED, a third LED, and a fourth LED, interconnected with the data storage device. The data storage device causes the first LED and the second LED to emit first light comprising a first color if the data storage device detects an internal failure. Alternatively, the storage device causes the third LED and the fourth LED to emit second light comprising a second color if the data storage device remains operative.

Abstract: A system for detecting and containing a breach in a container. The container wall includes containment layers and a sensor layer sandwiched between the containment layers. The sensor layer contains a signal path that can be carried by a signal cable such as fiber optic or wire cable. The containment layers contain shards of material. When the wall of the container is compromised, the signal in the sensor layer is altered by the disturbed shards cutting the signal cable, thus allowing for the detection of a rupture, vandalism or an unauthorized access attempt, The containment layers may be composed of a gel or rubber material to slow leakage.

Abstract: A remotely monitorable shipping container including a shipping container body having associated therewith at least one door and at least one door latch having a latch locking element arranged for locking engagement with a door mounted locking element, at least one wireless communicator mounted in a secure location within the shipping container and being operative to wirelessly transmit information to a remote monitor regarding the status of an electronic seal mounted onto the locking element for confirming locking of the at least one door, and at least one wireless antenna mounted within a protected enclosure on the outside of the shipping container for transmitting the information from the at least one wireless communicator.

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.

Abstract: A system and method for activating vehicle sensors which are based on inductive loops. A transformer is used to couple the vehicle frame to activation circuitry. Within the activation circuitry, a voltage controlled oscillator which drives the transformer is scanned throughout the required frequency range while a balanced mixer, low-pass filter, and detector are arranged to show the presence of a signal from an inductive loop by the amplitude of the resultant signal at a difference frequency. The voltage controlled oscillator is then made to dwell at or near the frequency of the sensor loop by adjusting so as to keep the amplitude of that low-frequency difference as high as possible.

Abstract: An image display device capable of preventing erroneous activation of the theft prevention function is provided. The image display device includes a theft prevention unit having an alarm function for preventing theft of the image display device, and a control circuit for controlling the theft prevention unit. The control circuit invalidates the alarm function of the theft prevention unit before the image display device is shipped out of a factory.

Abstract: A method for communicating settable priority data from a powered device being powered over communication cabling to power sourcing equipment, the method comprising: prior to connecting power to operational circuitry of the powered device, transmitting first multi-bit data from the powered device to the power sourcing equipment; subsequent to the transmitted first multi-bit data, connecting power received over the communication cabling to the powered device operational circuitry; receiving information from the powered device operational circuitry; disconnecting the received power from the powered device operational circuitry; and subsequent to the disconnecting, and prior to reconnecting power to the operational circuitry, transmitting second multi-bit data from the powered device to the power sourcing equipment, the second multi-bit data being a function of the received information, at least one of the first multi-bit data and the second multi-bit data being a function of a settable priority.

Abstract: The invention provides a monitoring tag for wearing about the appendage of an individual. It includes a self-contained transmitter module that is located in a housing and transmits radio signals to a base unit, for receipt by the base unit if within a predetermined range. If the individual wearing the monitoring tag moves outside this range then the base unit can trigger an alarm or send a warning signal. The housing has an opening for receiving the end of a flexible elongate strap to secure the tag around the appendage of the individual. The strap is attached to the housing inside the opening using a clip, which has structure for fixedly securing it to the strap and structure for fixedly securing it in the opening. Once the clip is attached to the housing it cannot be removed unless a weakened or frangible region between the securing structures is broken.

Abstract: Alarm systems, remote communication devices, and article security methods are described according to some aspects of the disclosure. In one aspect, an article security method includes associating a remote communication device with an article to be secured; using the remote communication device, generating a plurality of electrical signals responsive to receipt of spurious electromagnetic energy and a plurality of wireless signals of a base communication device associated with the remote communication device to form an alarm system; distinguishing the electrical signals generated responsive to the spurious electromagnetic energy from electrical signals generated responsive to the wireless signals of the base communication device; and responsive to the distinguishing, generating a plurality of human perceptible alarm signals corresponding to respective ones of the electrical signals generated responsive to the wireless signals of the base communication device.

Abstract: An alarm system is applied for a computer to warn an owner of an electronic device via a terminal when the electronic device is detached from the computer. The alarm system includes a memory unit and a main controller connected the memory unit. The main unit controller includes a recording unit, a determining unit, and an information obtaining transmitting unit. The recording unit is used to log the electronic device detachably connected to the computer. The determining unit is used to determine whether the electronic device detachably connected to the computer is detached from the computer. The information obtaining transmitting unit is used to read the alarm information from the memory unit when the electronic device is detached from the computer, and transmit the alarm information to the owner’ terminal.

Abstract: An electrical connector apparatus for use with a field device includes a housing having a first end and a second end, an electrical feedthrough subassembly, and a visual indicator viewable from outside the housing. The first end of the housing is configured to mechanically connect to the field device. The electrical feedthrough subassembly extends through at least a portion of the housing and includes a plurality of electrical conductors configured to provide a removable electrical connection at the second end of the housing and a flameproof barrier disposed between the first and second ends of the housing. The visual indicator has a plurality of illumination modes indicative of a power state of the electrical feedthrough subassembly.

Abstract: A vending machine uses a field-programmable electronic lock that learns a key code from a corresponding electronic key, a hand-held program unit, or an external computing device via wireless communications. In one mode, the electronic lock has a learning process activation device that is accessible only when the door of the vending machine is in the open position. In another mode, the electronic lock is programmed in the field without first opening the vending machine. A program command and access control data including a new access code are transmitted wirelessly from a hand-held program unit or the like. Alternatively, an external computing device is used to program the electronic lock via long-range wireless communications, and an electronic key is then used to open the electronic lock to physically access the vending machine.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically determining a physical location of one or more units in a rack, including: using one or more physical cables between rack units; cascading a first signal through the one or more units located in the rack, the first signal being encoded with a unit number and a physical parameter; and creating a rack ID by utilizing hardware parameters, the hardware parameters being determined by: detecting a second signal that exists from a bottom unit, the bottom unit located at the bottom of the rack; and using a third signal to send data between the one or more units in the rack by manipulating void spaces within the rack, the third signal being either cabled or an optical signal.

Abstract: A theft preventative system, such as which is specifically associated with high resale value metals employed in heating, cooling and ventilation (HVAC) assemblies. A first embodiment utilizes a transformer and relay arrangement creating a closed circuit through the lines of conductive copper pipe, via interconnecting wires, and which is also hooked to an alarm for notifying when the metal conductive circuit to the copper line is opened, either by cutting the copper pipe or the wire connected to it. A second variant discloses incorporating a fluid pressure switch into each of the copper lines, for notifying when fluid pressure within the line decreases, this indicative of the normally fluid filled copper line being sectioned.

Abstract: An anti-theft device comprising a flexible cable provided with two conducting wires which are mutually connected in order to close an electrical contact and are connected, at a first end, to a control unit designed to act in response to the opening/closure of the electrical contact, characterized in that the flexible cable is connected, at the second end, to means for detachable connection to at least one item to be restrained, the detachable connection means comprising security means of the mechanical type which are adapted to prevent the opening of the detachable connection means, a deactivation device being provided which can engage the detachable connection means in order to open the security means.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus and method for converting a low voltage occupancy sensor to a powered stand-alone unit. The invention uses a low voltage occupancy sensor mounted in an upper portion of a housing with its associated low voltage wiring terminating in a terminal block. An attachable corresponding lower housing is provided with a power pack adapted to connect with the low voltage terminal block wherein once combined the upper and lower housing portions combine to form an integral powered stand-alone sensor unit.

Abstract: A secure connector is provided. The secure connector comprises a casing; a tamper sensor disposed inside the casing and configured to detect unauthorized tamper events; and one or more conductors configured to carry signals, the one or more conductors passing through the tamper sensor.

Abstract: A technique for preventing damage to a portable device includes detecting movement of a portable device and determining whether a port of the portable device is attached to an external device. When the external device is attached to the port, a notification is provided to a user of the portable device that the external device requires detachment from the portable device (e.g., assuming that the notification is not masked).

Abstract: Methods, systems and other embodiments associated with protecting merchandise items are presented. A method of protecting merchandise items includes displaying a plurality of merchandise items at a consumer display so that the merchandise items can be handled by a consumer. Each merchandise item is connected to the consumer display with a corresponding tether. A first alarm is generated when one of the consumer items is removed from one of the corresponding tethers. A second alarm is generated that is different than the first alarm when one of the tethers is severed.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.

Abstract: A programming apparatus for generating and retaining a security disarm code (SDC) for use in a security system for protecting items of merchandise has a housing and a logic control circuit located within the housing. The control circuit includes a controller for generating the SDC, a memory for storing the generated SDC and a wireless communication system for interfacing with a programmable key used for operating a security device attached to an item of merchandise. A visual display includes a plurality of LEDs which indicate the status of the logic control circuit. The SDC is generated initially as a random SDC by the programming apparatus, which SDC is retained in the controller of the apparatus for the life of the programming apparatus.

Abstract: A programmable key for use in a security system for protecting items of merchandise has a housing, a power supply mounted in the housing, a logic control circuit which includes a controller, a wireless communication circuit and a security disarm code (SDC) memory. The key has visual indicators such as an LED which is operatively connected to the logic control circuit and pulsed to indicate the state of the SDC. The control circuit includes a timer which has a preset time limit programmed therein, which invalidates the stored SDC if not refreshed by a remote programming source within a certain time period. The logic circuit further includes a counter which counts the number of activations of a control switch, and which permanently deactivates the control circuit upon reaching a certain count value to ensure that the internal battery has sufficient power to maintain the key operational. The wireless communication circuit preferably is infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) controlled.

Abstract: A security system for protecting items of merchandise includes a programmable key, a programming station for generating a security disarm code (SDC) into the key, and a security device attached to the item of merchandise. The security device is initially programmed with the SDC from the key and is subsequently disarmed by the key upon matching the SDC of the key with the SDC stored in the security device. A wireless interface is provided in the programming station, programmable key and security device for programming the SDC into the key and for matching the SDC of the key with the SDC of the alarm module. An internal timer in the key invalidates the SDC in the key after a predetermined time period to prevent use of the key for disarming a security device after the time period has expired. The programming station initially generates a unique SDC which remains in the programming station for use with the programmable keys and alarm modules.

Abstract: A security alarm module for attaching to an item of merchandise in a security system for protecting the item of merchandise has a housing, a logic control circuit including a central controller, a wireless interface for communicating with a programmable key containing a security code, and a memory circuit for storing the security code. An attachment device attaches the alarm module to the item of merchandise and a sense loop operatively communicates with the attachment device for sensing when the integrity of the attachment device is compromised. An audio alarm is located within the housing and is actuated when the integrity of the sense loop is compromised. A visual indicator such as an LED, indicates the status of the alarm module. The housing includes a base and a bottom housing member which is spaced from the base to form a sound region. The audio alarm is mounted in the bottom housing member and communicates with the sound region which enhances the sound level of the alarm when actuated.

Abstract: An apparatus, a system and a method secure and/or display a device on a fixture. Additionally, the apparatus, the system and the method attach and/or secure the device and/or a detachable means of the device to the fixture. A housing and/or a cable connects the device and/or the detachable means of the device to an alarm box and/or an alarm board. The housing has an optical sensor and/or a sensor board with a micro-controller and/or a resistor in communication with the micro-controller. The alarm box and/or the alarm board is in communication with an optical sensor and/or the micro-controller via a cable. A power source is in communication with the micro-controller via the cable to control a voltage which delivers from the power source to the device. Furthermore, the cable extends outward with respect to the fixture and/or a retracting means which allows the device and/or the detachable element of the device to be manipulated and/or to be examined by a customer and/or a user.

Abstract: An anti-theft tag deterring theft of a ring is provided. The anti-theft tag includes an elongated housing for accommodating an EAS marker, a product support member that locks into the housing and which supports the ring, and a flexible, tear resistant strap for securing the ring to the support member, the strap being disposed at least partially within the housing during use. In one embodiment, the support member includes an arcuate seat portion for supporting a circular shank portion of the ring, and a locking member that locks into a corresponding cavity in the housing. In use, the tear resistant strap extends over the ring shank, and the strap ends are received within the cavity of the housing to protect the strap from unauthorized removal by a consumer.

Abstract: A security system and display module therefore protects an item of merchandise mounted on the display module in a retail environment. The item of merchandise is electrically and mechanically connected to a sensor which is removably mounted on the display module by a first power cord. A second power cord connects the display module to the sensor and a third power cord connects the display module to a source of electricity for supplying electric power to the sensor through the display module and then to the displayed item for maintaining the charge on a battery of the displayed item. The display module contains an alarm unit having an audible alarm which is actuated if the integrity of either of the first or second power cords is compromised. A plunger switch and LED may be contained in the sensor and in a base of the display module and connected to the internal alarm to provide additional security for the protected item of merchandise.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically advertising items put on display, as well as protecting those items against theft. The system and method include an event sensor associated with the item and connected to a monitoring and alarm transmitter for initiating an advertising experience on an associated and local graphic display whenever the item is manipulated or approached by a patron. Should the item be removed or taken from its display stand, a wireless alarm is automatically transmitted to a receiver of an authorized person. The system and method also perform a logging function when a patron approaches the item or removes it without taking it away. The system and method also include the ability to provide power to electronic items that are on display.