Abstract: Battery operated security system for valuable object/equipment protection, involving motion sensing means to act on latching means to activate a sound emitting alarm which can be deactivated only by a security key opening the latched circuit—all involved elements of the said security system being affixed to the valuable object/equipment or objects rigidly associated with it like cases or the like.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for facilitating the locating of lost or stolen articles. The method includes providing an article registry comprising one or more registered article identification information and associated owner preference information. The method also includes providing a lost article registry comprising one or more lost article identification information. The method further includes receiving a first article identification; and responsive to finding the first article identification in the lost article registry, transmitting the associated owner preference information. The system includes a security server which includes an article registry comprising one or more registered article identification information and associated owner preference information. The security server also includes a lost article registry comprising one or more lost article identification information.

Abstract: An entryway system includes a door entry system (130) located near an entry door (320), and a personal presence identifier (122) carried by a guest and coupled to the door entry system by a short-range wireless link (26). The door entry system and the personal presence identifier are arranged and programmed to establish a personal area network with one another when the personal presence identifier is within wireless transmission range of the door entry system. The door entry system is also programmed to determine (80) whether further communications with the personal presence identifier are authorized. The personal presence identifier and the door entry system are also arranged and programmed to exchange (82) needs specifications and capability specifications with one another after the door entry system has determined that further communications with the personal presence identifier are authorized.

Abstract: A system for supervision and control of objects or persons within a limited area, such as a building, comprising a plurality of electronic identification chips for placing on respective objects/persons to be supervised/controlled, each chip having stored therein a special ID code and being provided with respective transmitters and receivers for communication via ultrasound as well as audible sound, a plurality of stationary detectors which are interconnected in a network and arranged for both-way communication with the chips, and a central control unit in communication with the chips via the detectors. Each chip is continuously active in operation and is arranged to transmit its ID code at predetermined time intervals. At least one of the detectors or the control unit are being arranged to trigger an alarm unit if an incorrect code is received or an approved code is not received continuously at predetermined time intervals.

Abstract: A product tag system comprises: an RFID tag adapted for attachment to a product; a data store in the tag for bar code information relating to the product; a tag detacher for removing the tag from the product at a point of sale; an RFID tag reader for retrieving the bar code information from the tag when the tag is placed in the tag detacher; and, an display for presenting the bar code information in a form which can be scanned by a conventional bar code scanner, and/or in human readable form. A method for monitoring products comprise the steps of: attaching an RFID tag to a product; writing bar code information onto the tag; retrieving the bar code information from the tag at a point of sale; displaying the bar code information in a form which can be scanned by a conventional bar code scanner, and/or in human readable form; and, detaching the tag from the product.

Abstract: A theft detection device, for warning a property owner that a item of property such as an automobile, a child, or a personal item has been brought beyond a predetermined acceptable distance, comprising a plurality of transmitters and a receiver. Each transmitter continuously transmits a unique signal. The receiver monitors the signals from the transmitters, and determines when the signal strength therefrom drops below a predetermined threshold level or is missing altogether. When the property is moved from the owner beyond an acceptable distance, the signal strength will drop below the threshold level and will not be detected, indicating an alert condition. Once an alert condition is established by the receiver, a beeping unit is activated to provide an audible warning to the owner that the property has been stolen, so that the authorities can be immediately notified.

Abstract: An electronic seal (2) is disclosed which comprises a housing (4,104) and a closure member co-operable with the housing to form a seal. The closure member may for example take the form of an elongate member (6, 106) connectable at both of its ends to the housing. The closure comprises an outer portion (8, 108) surrounding a core (10, 10A, 110). A sensor assembly (14, 16, 135, 136) is provided for sensing integrity of the core. Hence tampering with the seal can be detected. The core may be formed as a fiber optic cable (10, 10A with an integrity sensor comprising an optical source 14 and an optical detector 16.

Abstract: A remote control device including a housing, a processor located in the housing, and a motion detector in communication with the processor. The device also includes at least one input device in communication with the processor and a light source attached to a top side of the housing and in communication with the processor, wherein the motion detector communicates a signal to the processor upon detection of motion, and wherein the processor effects the light source to be lit upon receipt of the signal.

Abstract: The present invention is an asset identification and information retrieval system for industrial facility components composed of a computer identifier and at least one transponder tag. The transponder tags emit a radio identifier signal in response to a scanning signal sent by the computer identifier. The computer identifier is portable, battery operated and has visual displays for confirming readouts as well as a database to store multiple tag information. The system also has the capability to remotely access databases regarding tagged components, such that a field employee utilizing the computer identifier can communicate with the centralized control system to receive, amend or record records and other information regarding any particular tagged asset.

Abstract: An automatic golf club selecting device for selecting a certain golf club by verbally indicating which club is desired. The automatic golf club selecting device includes a plurality of lifting units for lifting a club. Each of the lifting unit comprises a selectively extendable cylindrical member. Each of the cylindrical members being mountable in a golf club bag. A motor designed for extending and retracting the cylindrical member is operationally coupled to one of the cylindrical members. A control circuitry designed for recognizing spoken golf club indicators is mountable to the golf club bag. The control circuitry is electrically coupled to each of the motors. A power supply is removably mountable in the golf club bag and is electrically coupled to the control circuitry. A microphone for receiving golf club indicators is mountable to the golf bag and is electrically coupled to the control circuitry. An actuator for turning the control circuitry on and off is mountable to the golf club bag.

Abstract: An alarm system is provided for alerting a golfer about a forgotten club. A divot tool incorporates a radio transmitter powered by a rechargeable power source for transmitting a coded transmission. A radio receiver tuned to receive the coded transmission includes logic circuitry that generates an alarm signal whenever power associated with the coded transmission drops below a threshold level. One or more alarm devices are coupled to the logic circuitry to generate alarm(s) when the alarm signal is supplied thereto. A power source is coupled to the radio receiver for supplying power thereto and for supplying a charging current for the rechargeable power source via an electrical coupling. When a golfer places a club or other accessory on the ground, the divot tool is placed near the club. As long as the golfer remains within a prescribed range, no alarm will be activated. However, if the golfer moves further from the divot tool than the prescribed range, an alarm is produced.

Abstract: A remocon locator signal transmitting circuit is provided in an apparatus having a television tuner. When a power for the apparatus is turned on, a micro-computer in the apparatus sets a local oscillation frequency of the television tuner at a predetermined frequency (390 MHz). A 390-MHz local oscillation signal is supplied from the television tuner through an input terminal to the remocon locator transmitting circuit. In the remocon locator transmitting circuit, the local oscillation signal is amplitude-modulated by a code signal applied from the input terminal so that a locator signal is transmitted from a loop antenna.

Abstract: Measuring and/or control system (1) for detection of the distance of an object (2) or of a person from a predetermined reference point, with a first transmitting/receiving device (10) for generation and wireless transmission of a control signal to a separate second transmitting and/receiving device (30), as well as for receipt of an acknowledgment signal generated from the second transmitting/receiving device (30) upon receipt of the control signal, whereby both of the transmitting/receiving devices display on the transmitting side a signal source (23, 24, 25, 26) that generates as a control and/or as an acknowledgment signal, pulses that display during the duration of the pulse a monotonically falling or rising frequency, or that consists of a super-position of these types of pulses in pairs, the other current transmitting/receiving device (10, 30) displaying on the receiving side for time compression of the received pulses, at least one dispersion filter (11) having a predetermined frequency-dependent signa

Abstract: The present invention is embodied in a package for protecting and displaying goods, the package includes a wireless smart package assembly and a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tag. The assembly comprises a package having at least one sheet of material adapted to support a product during the shipment and storage of the product. An electrically conductive material distributed along a portion of the sheet so as to form a non-planar antenna. The non-planar antenna may be configured to form a corner antenna or an array of spaced-apart dipole antennas. The invention when used with a passive RFID tag includes a power source within the RFID tag that allows for a one-time transmit capability.

Abstract: A tamper evident package and system where the package has a radio frequency identification tag affixed to or imprinted onto the covering. An interrogator emits an electromagnetic signal to the identification tag which responds with a predetermined signal if the covering of the package is intact and has not been breached or the identification tag may be powered and emit the predetermined signal intermittently or continuously by itself. An attempt to enter the package disables the identification tag and will cause the identification tag, thereafter interrogated, to fail to send a signal or will send a signal that is different from the predetermined signal. The interrogator recognizes the lack of or the different signal as an indication that the integrity of the package has been breached.

Abstract: An active package system comprising: a package; a first identification tag coupled to the package; a controller that stores identifying data coupled to the first identification tag; and, an interrogator located external to the package, wherein the first identification tag in response to a query from the interrogator communicates the identifying data and the first identification tag is adapted for initiating a query to a second identification tag.

Abstract: A device for safely storing or displaying a firearm that alerts its owner if the device or firearm are disturbed by unauthorized individuals and also provides its owner with quick access to the firearm when necessary. The device comprises a covered support member with a recessed volume generally configured to fit at least a portion of a firearm, actuators that activate an alarm if the device is uncovered or the firearm is removed without authorization, and a concealed de-activator.

Abstract: The present invention provides an ingress-egress monitoring system comprising transmitting antennas 1 disposed respectively at a plurality of ingress-egress gates, tags 2 to be attached to respective persons to be checked for egress and each adapted to transmit an identification signal in response to radio waves received from the antenna 1, receivers 3 disposed respectively at the ingress-egress gates for receiving the identification signal from the tag and each operable to output a monitoring signal containing an ID code contained in the identification signal and the number of the gate of its own, and a monitor 5 connected to the receivers 3 for displaying the ID code and the gate number based on the monitoring signal output from the receiver 3. The tags 2 transmit the respective identification signals in cycles different one another.

Abstract: Disclosed is a shoplifting monitoring apparatus. The apparatus includes an alarm device and an attachment unit to be attached to an article such that a predetermined attachment surface faces the article. The attachment unit includes a switch for detecting whether or not the attachment unit is attached to the article, and a sleeve member. The switch includes a movable piece and a contact. The contact is in the closed state when the movable piece is located at an inside of a standard position, and is in the open state when the movable piece is located at the standard position or at an outside thereof. The sleeve member has a sleeve portion that surrounds an end portion of the movable piece when the attachment unit is attached to the article. The attachment unit is to be attached to the article such that the movable piece is pushed by the article toward the inside of the attachment surface, and thereby the contact of the switch is in the closed state.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification exciter (200) includes a plurality of antenna elements (122a-i) that are spaced to define active areas (130a-e). A matrix switch (202) flexibly connects the plurality of antenna elements to an exciter circuit (203). Independent switches (204a-i) are selectively switched such that an electric field is generated between at least two antenna elements whereby radio frequency identification tags (132) in the vicinity of the two antenna elements are capacitively powered to exchange data with the exciter. Antenna elements other than the at least two antenna elements may be selectively coupled to a signal from the exciter circuit that inhibits activation of radio frequency identification tags in the vicinity of those antenna elements. The matrix switch preferably comprises polymer-based circuits.

Abstract: A magnetic microwire for use in a magnetic tag attachable to a product is provided to enable authentication of the product, as well as the magnetic tag, a detector device and a system for product authentication utilizing the same. The magnetic microwire is a glass-coated amorphous magnetic microwire characterized by a large Barkhausen discontinuity and substantially zero or positive magnetostriction. The microwire is responsive to an external alternating magnetic field generated by the detector device to produce short pulses of magnetic field perturbations.

Abstract: An optical intrusion detection system includes an electromagnetic radiation detector located within the chassis of a personal computer or the like. The EM detector, such as a photodiode or phototransistor, detects EM radiation when the chassis is opened (allowing a person to modify or remove the contents thereof). The EM detector sends a detection signal to a latching mechanism that latches the signal and maintains the signal even after the chassis is closed. A detection component is provided which supplies the detection signal as a data signal to a network administrator terminal coupled to the personal computer where the optical intrusion detection system is installed. A feature of the detection system of the present invention is that intrusion into the chassis is detected silently and without alerting the individual opening the chassis.

Abstract: A piece of baggage comprises a relatively small electronic sound recorder and playback device, and a designated location for the device that constrains the device in a relatively fixed position. The baggage is preferably a general purpose piece, and more preferably has at least one or two shoulder straps. Exemplary pieces of baggage are knapsacks and pocketbooks, although computer carrying cases and some strap containing briefcases may also fit within these limitations. The electronic sound recorder and playback device may contain any suitable electronic circuitry, and may advantageously be configured to provide or at least assist in providing an alarm. The device may also be configured to record speech, music, or other sounds. The recorder/playback device should have sufficient capacity to record at least 120 seconds of speech, although both greater or lesser capacities are also contemplated.

Abstract: Object carriers are provided for use with an object tracking and control system of the type having a storage receptacle with a tray provided with an array of slots for receiving ID tags bearing touch memory devices. A computer-based controller is provided for detecting the absence or presence and identity of ID tags disposed in the slots. The carrier of this invention includes a container with an openable panel for placing objects in and removing objects from the carrier. A thin plastic tongue projects from the carrier and bears a touch memory device. Carriers bearing objects to be tracked are placed in the storage receptacle with their tongues extending into the slots of the receptacle. The controller can thus detect and log the removal and replacement of the carrier in the storage receptacle. In one embodiment, the opening and closing of the carrier when it is not stored in the receptacle is detected and logged for tracking access to the carrier in more detail.

Abstract: A library terminal permits a user to execute a loan transaction without assistance. The library terminal (i) provides a visible scan line from a bar code reader indicating the correct positioning of the bar code on a circulating item, (ii) leads a user through a loan transaction, (iii) provides an explicit feedback to a user when an article has an improper position on the article receiving area, (iv) both checks out and checks in circulating items, (v) stores fonts in bit maps of screen displays instead of in a separate font memory, (vi) integrates a security marker reader, a printer, and a controller in the same housing, (vii) processes financial transactions related to the borrowing of circulating items, and/or (viii) displays actions for helping the user to correct errors in use of the terminal.

Abstract: A remotely testable Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tag interrogation system is described. The system comprises a remotely activated test PIT tag fixed within the field of the system antenna By selectively activating the test PIT tag, and determining successful receipt of the test tag identification signal during such activation, remote confirmation of proper operation of the system is achieved. The system also contains components which permit the remote detection of the antenna field by analyzing signals present in the antenna during operation. Remote detection of the natural frequency to which the antenna is tuned is also achieved by analyzing signals present in the antenna during the collapse of the electromagnetic field in the antenna when the antenna drive signal is removed.

Abstract: The present invention sets out a label containing an RFID transponder having a uniform printable surface. The present invention presents a face sheet having an increased rigidity and/or thickness which does not readily conform to the profile of an RFID transponder contained beneath the face sheet. This results in a label having a more readily printable surface, and also presents a label having higher security as a result of the masking of the profile of the contained RFID responder.

Abstract: The System includes an Alarm Unit and a separate Alert Unit. The Alarm Unit is securely affixed to the parcel before the parcel is left at the delivery site, and the Alert Unit is placed at a secure site that is within radio range of the delivery site. The Alarm Unit is armed by the deliveryman upon depositing the parcel at the delivery site, and arming of the Alarm Unit results in the transmission of messages verifying to the seller or delivery agent that delivery has taken place and notifying the purchaser or intended recipient that the parcel has arrived. Movement of the parcel after it has been deposited at the delivery site and has been armed results in messages being transmitted to the shipping agent and to the intended recipient announcing that the parcel has been stolen. Such unauthorized movement of the parcel also activates a very loud audible alarm affixed to the parcel and activates a tracking beacon in or on the parcel, permitting the whereabouts of the parcel to be determined or tracked.

Abstract: A system for discouraging the unauthorized removal of an electronic device from a designated area is provided. The electronic device includes at least one functional feature (such as a display, speaker, power enabler, controller, etc.) for performing at least one desired function and an enabler, operatively coupled to the functional feature, for enabling the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The system further includes a security device that generates a signal, such as an electromagnetic field, so as to cause the enabler to enable the functional feature to perform the at least one desired function. The enabler may comprise a breakable link, such as a fuse. When the electronic device is placed in proximity to the electromagnetic field, the link is broken and the functional feature is enabled. In another preferred embodiment, the electronic device may include a controller operatively coupled to the functional feature for controlling the operability of the functional feature.

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating unit of a proximity transponder system. The unit has a housing of which the walls are formed predominantly of a metallic material, a space being defined in the walls in the region where the induction coil of the unit is located. This space is configured to permit magnetic flux lines to pass through the walls of the housing via the said space, thereby to permit inductive coupling with the induction coil of another operating unit. By forming the housing of predominantly a metallic material, possible tampering with the unit is greatly inhibited.

Abstract: A shoplift alarming device comprising: (1) one or more article-attachment portions each including a casing having an article-attachment surface, and a switch having a contact and a movable piece; (2) one or more cords each having a main lead line pair, i.e.

Abstract: Generally speaking, the present invention comprises a method for securing a timepiece to a display unit. The timepiece includes a head and a strap, and the display unit includes a member adapted to support the timepiece. The method includes the steps of: arranging the timepiece upon the member; affixing a security device to a securing means; and securing the securing means about the strap of the timepiece and a portion of the member, wherein the timepiece is secured to the member by the securing means. In one embodiment, the method includes the step of affixing the security device to the securing means by means of an adhesive. For example, the securing means is an adhesive layer having a center portion, a first side flap and a second side flap opposite the first side flap, and the method includes an initial step of tapering the ends of the first and second side flaps opposite the center portion.

Abstract: A baby bottle locating system for locating misplaced baby bottles and soothing infants. The baby bottle locating system includes a remote transmitter for sending an activation signal, a bottle, a nipple positionable adjacent to an open end of the bottle, an annular cap member to secure the nipple to the bottle, a receiver for receiving the activation signal positioned within the annular cap member, and a sound producing assembly positioned within the annular cap member.

Abstract: An antitheft device comprises a tag 10 and a member 2 for attaching the tag to a commodity. The attaching member 2 comprises a button 22 and a pin 21 projecting therefrom. The tag 10 includes a housing 1 having arranged therein a clamp member 3 for clamping the pin 21 of the attaching member 2, an on-off switch 8 to be depressed by the button 22 of the attaching member 2, and a buzzer 6 operable under the control of on-off signals from the switch 8. The clamp member 3 is rotatably supported and disengageable from pin 21 when the clamp member 3 is rotated in one direction. The on-off switch 8 comprises an actuator 82 projecting outward from the housing 1, and a cylindrical guide portion 83 provided around the base end of the actuator 82 and serving as a pivot for supporting the clamp member 3 thereon. The device is adapted to reliably prevent unlawful acts without becoming large-sized.

Abstract: A security system for selectively enabling and disabling the internal combustion engine of a vehicle is provided. The security system includes a security module which selectively interrupts current to or from crucial vehicle subsystems which are necessary for engine ignition or engine operation. The security module attaches and locks to the electrical terminal of a vehicle subsystem so that the security module cannot be removed from the engine compartment of a vehicle without removing the entire vehicle subsystem. Moreover, the security module covers and isolates the electrical terminal of the vehicle subsystem so as to electrically isolate the electrical terminal from unauthorized access. The security system further includes a controller and a switching element which are located within the security module for selectively controlling the flow of current from a conductive path to or from the vehicle subsystem which is sought to be controllably enabled and disabled.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for verifying the integrity of an object includes providing an authentic object with a layer that includes a volatile component and at least one other component, packaging the object so as to prevent a loss of the volatile component, opening the packaging causing the removal of at least some of the volatile component, and causing a color change with the remaining component for providing a visual indicator of the integrity of the object. A barrier layer may be provided to control the removal of the volatile component, and at least one chromophore may be provided to bias the first layer so as to reduce an amount of time required before the color change is detectable .The object may be gaming token, and the visual indicator may provide information related to the use of the gaming token.

Abstract: Objective: To offer a distribution system that can immediately confirm a product within a package without opening the package [sic].

Abstract: A tamper resistant enclosure for protecting an electronic device containing sensitive information (e.g. an electronic cryptographic card), is provided. The enclosure includes an external cover and an internal cover. Four screws (one at each corner) secure the internal cover to the device and the external cover by means of standoffs. A washer is interposed between the device and the standoff. The device has a dielectric substrate with a metal pad around each hole for ensuring the electrical connection to ground through the washer, the standoff and the conductive body of the external cover. When one of the screws is at least partially removed and the internal cover is moved, the circuit is interrupted and the system assumes that a tampering is being attempted. The circuit is designed to give an alarm and/or destroy all the sensitive information contained in the protected electronic device.

Abstract: The present invention provides radio frequency identification devices, remote communication devices, identification systems, communication methods, and identification methods. A radio frequency identification device according to one aspect includes a substrate; communication circuitry coupled with the substrate and configured to receive a wireless signal including an identifier, to process the identifier of the wireless signal and to output a control signal responsive to the processing of the identifier; and indication circuitry coupled with the communication circuitry and configured to receive the control signal and to indicate presence of the radio frequency identification device responsive to the control signal.

Abstract: Unattended package delivery cross-docking apparatus includes a plurality of storage devices, each having a door with a lock that is locked and unlocked in response to codes. A local lock controller is associated with each of the storage devices and includes an entry device for entering an access code that unlocks the lock when it is locked and a transaction code that locks the lock when it is unlocked. A central operations controller in communication with the local lock controllers is programmed to receive the access and transaction codes entered to each local lock controller, to create an access code for the lock of each storage device upon receiving a transaction code that locks the lock, and to output a notice of the access code to be used to unlock the lock of each storage device when it is locked.

Abstract: An item of personal accessory baggage has a user-recordable electronic sound recorder and playback device sized to less than 30% of an available carrying volume of the baggage, that reproduces a sound stored by a user and that is actuated upon occurrence of an event other than a movement of the baggage. The baggage preferably has a flap and at least one shoulder straps. Exemplary pieces of baggage are children's knapsacks and woman's or girl's pocketbooks. The recorder/playback device should have sufficient capacity to record at least 120 seconds of speech, although both greater and lesser capacities are also contemplated. The recorder/playback device may have any suitable actuation/control mechanism, and preferably uses a light actuated sensor. The recording/playback device may be constrained to the designated location by mechanical constraint (e.g., a sewn seam, a pouch, Velcro™, etc), a magnet, or chemical (e.g., glue, adhesive, etc).

Abstract: A communication system is provided which can be realized in a number of ways to facilitate baggage tracking and recovery. In the most rudimentary realization, the traveler receives a signal from transmitters placed in the baggage which can identify the presence of each item of baggage by a code number which may show either as the code number or as a user supplied personal designator for a particular item of luggage. The transmitter is inexpensive and low power but works well in the aircraft environment and causes no interference with aircraft control, communication or navigation equipment. Advanced versions of the invention include programmability and transponder control as well as enhanced audio signaling also include structure which can sense an aircraft environment based upon pressure, vibration and acceleration to provide control to portable electronic devices in response to sensing the take-off, cruise and landing conditions.

Abstract: A security device and a method for controlling operating status of portable computers with a pager to prevent unauthorized access to information stored in the portable computers, in the event of a theft or a loss are disclosed. The security device for a portable computer comprises: a memory for storing pager processing routine; data processing means for receiving, storing, and determining paged information to generate a corresponding interrupt signal according to a determined result; and a controller for displaying a message or a telephone number, or for changing system password by performing the pager processing routine, according the interrupt signal from the data processing means.

Abstract: The invention provides tools and techniques for discouraging theft and facilitating recovery of lost devices by placing owner information in a non-volatile memory in the device. The owner information may be entered as an audio recording, as a sequence of typed characters, and in other ways. The owner information includes specific location data, such as the owner's telephone number, email address, and/or postal address. The owner information is easily displayed to the public on the device, without the need to use a specialized reader tool or the need to enter a password or other code to authorize the display. No separate database at a manufacturer or otherwise is needed to correlate the device with the owner's contact information. Instead, the device displays owner information in response to predetermined events, such as power-on, power-off, and/or pushing a “Who Owns Me?” button.

Abstract: A communication system is provided which can be realized in a number of ways to facilitate baggage tracking and recovery. In the most rudimentary realization, the traveler receives a signal from transmitters placed in the baggage which can identify the presence of each item of baggage by a code number which may show either as the code number or as a user supplied personal designator for a particular item of luggage. The transmitter is inexpensive and low power but works well in the aircraft environment and causes no interference with aircraft control, communication or navigation equipment. Advanced versions of the invention include programmability and transponder control as well as enhanced audio signaling also include structure which can sense an aircraft environment based upon pressure, vibration and acceleration to provide control to portable electronic devices in response to sensing the take-off, cruise and landing conditions.

Abstract: The present invention provides radio frequency identification devices, remote communication devices, wireless communication systems, and methods of indicating operation. According to a first aspect, a radio frequency identification device includes a substrate; communication circuitry coupled with the substrate and configured to receive wireless signals including spurious signals; and indication circuitry coupled with the communication circuitry and configured to output an indication signal to indicate reception of the spurious signals within the communication circuitry. Another aspect provides a method of indicating operation of a radio frequency identification device including providing a radio frequency identification device including communication circuitry and indication circuitry; receiving wireless signals including spurious signals using the communication circuitry; and emitting human perceptible signals using the indication circuitry to indicate the receiving spurious signals.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for objects provided with portions which can be surrounded by straps or the like. The anti-theft device comprises a strap, an enclosure which contains an excitable signaling component and an engagement elements in which it is possible to insert and lock a first end of the strap, the engagement means being rigidly coupled to, and adjacent to, the enclosure together with a coupling element for the mating of a second end of the strap, which is closed like a noose onto the element to be protected against theft.

Abstract: This invention provides radio frequency identification devices, wireless communication systems, communication methods, methods of forming a radio frequency identification device, methods of testing wireless communication operations, and methods of determining a communication range. According to a first aspect, a radio frequency identification device includes a substrate; communication circuitry coupled with the. substrate and configured to at least one of receive wireless signals and communicate wireless signals; and indication circuitry coupled with the communication circuitry and configured to indicate operation of as the radio frequency identification device. A communication method according to another aspect includes providing a radio frequency identification device including indication circuitry; receiving a wireless signal within the radio frequency identification device; and indicating operation of the radio frequency identification device using the indication circuitry after the receiving.

Abstract: A flood light lamp removal alarm for security lights mounted on or near a home, wherein the lights are designed to turn on automatically if a motion detector is triggered and the ambient light level is low, detects if any of the flood light lamps are unscrewed or loosened, either prior to a burglary or during the attempt to disable the flood light assembly. A central contact of a lamp socket is modified so that it maintains contact with the lamp therein for a longer distance as the lamp is unscrewed out, so that the alarm is triggered before the light from the lamp is disabled. Alternatively, current detectors verify when a lamp is loosened from a socket by detecting changes in current draw across the socket.

Abstract: A retractable sensor assembly for use with an alarm system to prevent theft of valuable products while eliminating the problem of entangled and unsightly sensor cords is disclosed. The retractable sensor allows the user to grasp the product and pull it to a comfortable position. The invention consists of a housing, a retraction means contained in the housing, a sensor having two states, 1) secured when attached to the product and 2) unsecured when detached from the product, a multiconductor cable having a first end connected to the sensor, cooperating with the retraction means and a second end extending out of the housing, where the retraction means urges the sensor to the housing, yet allows the sensor to be pulled from the housing when an external force is exerted on the sensor, while maintaining a continuous electrical path from the first, sensor end of the cable to the second end of the cable.