Abstract: Apparatus and method for detecting when an animal is in heat is provided. The apparatus includes a logic controller, a power source, a clock, an actuator, and a presentation interface such as an array of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) that records breeding behavior in animals and presents corresponding data in a manner that can readily be observed from a distance. The method includes, according to some embodiments, receiving a first stimulus, validating that the first stimulus was received incident to a first mating-behavior event, receiving a second stimulus incident to a second mating-behavior event; and storing the occurrence of the first stimulus along with a time indicator for future retrieval and display on a presentation interface, wherein the presentation interface includes an LED array.

Abstract: A method of making an electronic label, such as an RFID label, includes attaching a circuit, such as an antenna, to a substrate material, applying an adhesive layer to the substrate material over the circuit, adding a release layer over the adhesive layer, forming at least one opening in the release layer to expose at least one portion of the circuit, and connecting a microchip to the at least one portion of the circuit through the at least one opening. The electronic label includes a substrate having on one surface a circuit including at least one microchip, a layer of adhesive covering the circuit and the one surface of the substrate, and a release layer covering the adhesive layer. The circuit can be an RFID inlay, including an antenna and a microchip, and can be formed of a conductive ink. A portion of the release layer at the at least one microchip has an opening to expose the at least one microchip so that the at least one microchip is free from coverage by the release layer.

Abstract: A RFID jamming device and methodology are provided for inhibiting unwanted intrusions of RFID smart tag technology. The device includes a mechanism for actively or passively preventing a RFID scanner from accurately receiving information from smart tags associated with products.

Abstract: In a non-contacting smart card interrogator (1) a first end (A) of an eighth-wave transmission line (13) is connected to a terminal connecting a first receiver (16) to a transmission line (14), and to a second end (B) of the transmission line (14) the carrier wave generator (11) is connected. To the first end (A) of the eighth-wave transmission line (13) the first amplitude demodulation receiver (16) and to the second end (B) thereof a second amplitude demodulation receiver (16?) are connected. In the non-contacting smart card interrogator of the invention an effective use of amplitude demodulation is made possible by changing the phase modulation into an amplitude one by means of a passive element, whereby, however, no noise source has been introduced into the system.

Abstract: A label includes a first portion that is printable with optically readable information and a detachable second portion that has an RFID tag that can be encoded with corresponding RFID information. The printable portion and the RFID portion can thus be printed and encoded, respectively, with information for the same container or object. Both portions can then be kept together until the label is ready to be applied. This greatly reduces the chances of applying mismatched optical and RFID labels.

Abstract: An item tracking system for tracking an item within a structure having at least one aperture through which the item is passed is provided. The item tracking system comprises a radio frequency tag attached to the item, a reader operably connected to a reader antenna, a processor operably connected to the reader, and a vertically suspended movable support for the reader antenna. The tag has item information stored therein and the reader is capable of reading the item information from the tag. The processor receives and stores the item information from the reader and the movable support is suspended from a location adjacent the top of the aperture. The support and reader antenna can move around the item to permit the item to pass through the aperture and the reader reads the item information from the tag when the item passes through the aperture using the reader antenna.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments of the present invention are used to permanently disable or destruct an RFID so that it is no longer possible to read some or all of the data encoded on the RFID tag. In one method for disabling data on a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an RFID tag is identified and its identity is confirmed. Verification that a prerequisite event has occurred is obtained, occurrence of which is required prior to disablement of the data. A destruct instruction is transmitted to the RFID tag. The RFID tag verifies that the destruct instruction is valid and disables the data upon verifying validity of the destruct instruction. The tag may disable the data by erasing the data, disabling the data, auto-destructing, or performing any operation that makes the data unreadable.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: A RF MOS- or nonlinear device-based surveillance and/or identification tag, and methods for its manufacture and use. The tag generally includes (a) an inductor, (b) a first capacitor plate coupled to the inductor, (c) a dielectric film on the first capacitor plate, (d) a semiconductor component on the dielectric film, and (e) a conductor that provides electrical communication between the semiconductor component and the inductor. The method of manufacture generally includes (1) depositing a semiconductor material (or precursor) on a dielectric film; (2) forming a semiconductor component from the semiconductor material/precursor; (3) forming a conductive structure at least partly on the semiconductor component; and (4) etching the electrically functional substrate to form (i) an inductor and/or (ii) a second capacitor plate.

Abstract: Mechanically and reversibly activating or deactivating a radio frequency identification (RFID) data tag. An RFID tag includes an RFID chip for storing an RFID code, an antenna for communicating a radio frequency (RF) signal, and a mechanical switch coupling the RFID chip to the antenna. Closing the mechanical switch enables the RFID chip and the antenna to communicate the RFID code via the RF signal.

Abstract: Monitoring for unauthorized RF energy emitted or transmitted in a particular zone or portion of a building, etc. Radio frequency energy is received in a region that encompasses a zone in which it is desired to monitor for unauthorized radio frequency energy. At least one characteristic of the received radio frequency energy is analyzed to determine whether unauthorized radio frequency energy is occurring in the zone. Unauthorized RF energy may be detected by analyzing at least one spectral characteristic of the received radio frequency energy and comparing the at least one spectral characteristic with data associated with authorized and/or unauthorized radio frequency energy. Alternatively, signal classification techniques can be applied to data derived from the received radio frequency energy to classify by type signals contained in the received radio frequency energy.

Abstract: A method for processing a surface of an item and providing an association using a surface processing system includes receiving an item having a first identification marking on a surface of the item to provide a received item for providing a first identification signal in response to a first interrogation signal and applying a second identification marking to the surface of the item for providing a second identification signal in response to a second interrogation signal. At least one of the first and second interrogation signals is applied to the item to provide at least one of the first and second identification signals. At least one of the first and second identification signals is received in response to the at least one of the first and second interrogation signals. An association is made is determined in response to the first receiving.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for preventing an unauthorized person from taking or using a portable computer. The anti-theft/security system includes a USB device having a motion sensor attached to a casing of a portable computer. The USB device is connected to a port of the portable computer using a connector. The anti-theft/security system also includes an alarm sub-system to cause an audible sound to be generated, which is triggered based on a signal generated by the motion sensor located inside the USB device.

Abstract: Methods of operation of a data reader and security tag deactivation system whereby a data reader such as a barcode scanner is equipped with EAS deactivation coils or modules disposed in the vicinity of the read volume or generally proximate thereto and the system is operable to permit reading of the ID tag (such as the barcode label) on an item, and upon a successful read, the deactivation unit is operable to (1) sense the presence of an EAS tag; (2) if presence of an EAS tag is sensed, energize the deactivation coil/module to deactivate the EAS tag; and (3) sense if the EAS tag is deactivated. If the EAS tag is sensed to have been deactivated, the system signals as such and a next item may be scanned. If the EAS tag is sensed to have not been deactivated, the system proceeds to alternate operational steps to handle the exception.

Abstract: One or more RFID tags (104) are integrated into a fire hose (102) to facilitate an individual's exit from a structure. A portable interrogator (106) worn by the individual interrogates the closest RFID tag (104). Each RFID tag (104) has location information stored therein which gets decoded upon interrogation by the portable interrogator (106). The RFID location information assists the individual in locating the hose (102) and following the hose towards its source point (110) and out of the structure.

Abstract: Remote communications devices, wireless communications systems, remote communications device operable methods, and retail article monitoring methods are described. According to one embodiment, a remote communications device includes communications circuitry configured to implement wireless communications with respect to another wireless communications device and a configurable portion configured to be altered, and wherein the remote communications device is configured to respond to wireless interrogation signals from the another wireless communications device, and incident at the remote communications device with the configurable portion in an unaltered condition and wherein the remote communications device is insensitive to the wireless interrogation signals from the another wireless communications device and incident at the remote communications device with the configurable portion in an altered condition.

Abstract: The present invention relates to RFID devices, including handheld RFID devices, and applications for such devices. The devices and applications may be used in connection with items that are associated with an RFID tag, and optionally a magnetic security element. The devices and applications are described with particular reference to library materials such as books, periodicals, and magnetic and optical media.

Abstract: Systems and techniques to provide radio frequency identification tags including a non-responsive state, which is independent of supplied power, initiated in conjunction with a tag communications reset. In general, in one implementation, a passive radio frequency identification tag includes an antenna, a radio frequency interface coupled with the antenna, and control logic that initiates a deep sleep state in response an event, the deep sleep state including a non-responsive state that is independent of supplied power, and the control logic providing a following state entered upon conclusion of the non-responsive state, where communications initiate from the following state.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to deactivate an EAS security tag are described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to RFID devices, including handheld RFID devices, and applications for such devices. The devices and applications may be used in connection with items that are associated with an RFID tag, and optionally a magnetic security element. The devices and applications are described with particular reference to library materials such as books, periodicals, and magnetic and optical media.

Abstract: A system and method for integrating point of sale (POS) data with electronic article surveillance (EAS) data, comprising a general-purpose computer for receiving and processing POS and EAS data is disclosed. The system and method preferable comprise reporting analyzed and collated data to a user.

Abstract: An identification tag identifies a unique item from among a plurality of items with a similar appearance. Tagged items are searched by scanning the items with an interrogation signal. The tag emits an observable signal to indicate when it receives an identification that matches the identification contained in the tag. When the reader's interrogation is not present, the tag either sleeps at a very low power level or is passively unpowered.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to deactivate an EAS security tag using an expanded detection zone are described.

Abstract: A radio-frequency identification (RFID) and an electronic article surveillance (EAS) tag includes an RFID device and an EAS device. The RFID device may operate in a plurality of states including an activated state in which communication with a reader is enabled and a deactivated state in which communication with a reader is disabled. The EAS device may operate in a plurality of states including an activated state in which activation of an alarm is enabled and a deactivated state in which activation of an alarm is disable. The RFID device may be deactivated when the EAS device is deactivated. For example, the same piece of equipment that deactivates the EAS device also deactivates the RFID device at the same time. The RFID device may include an antenna, an RFID chip connected to the antenna for communicating with a reader, and an active element operatively disposed with respect to the antenna.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to perform resonant recharge transfers energy from an AC power source (e.g., a power line) or from a DC power source or from bulk capacitors to a deactivation capacitor. The resonant recharge occurs faster than conventional techniques without the need for dissipative current limiting control elements. Through the employment of a resonant approach, the natural impedance of the resonant circuit limits the current without high resistive losses of a limiting resistor or other current limiting regulator. This may increase the efficiency of the recharge circuit and may charge the deactivation capacitor to a voltage that is higher than the voltage of the power source.

Abstract: In a radio frequency identification (RF-ID) system and method of sending additional signals, the radio frequency identification (RF-ID) system includes a tag portion including a sensor, the tag portion for outputting a composite signal including additional data from the sensor and basic data necessary for certification, an antenna for receiving the composite signal output from the tag portion, and a RF-ID reader portion for retrieving the composite signal received from the antenna and for decoding the basic data and the additional data.

Abstract: Deactivating a data tag attached to packaging for user privacy or tamper-evident reasons. A data circuit stores identification information. A plurality of antennas is coupled to the data circuit. At least one antenna of the plurality of antennas is a removable antenna capable of wireless signal transmission at a first range such that removal of the antenna substantially prevents communication of the identification information via the removed antenna and permits communication of the identification information via another antenna of the plurality of antennas at a second range relatively smaller than the first range.

Abstract: A tamper evident smart label with an RFID or RF transponder. Use of tamper evident label materials in the layered construction of the smart label prevents removal, transferal, replacement and or alteration of the smart label without noticeable evidence of tampering. Propagation cuts in the RF Transponder substrate, adhesive that separates into visible patterns, holograms and or microprinting may be used to increase label tampering visibility.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) device detection system includes an RFID device reader configured to detect RFID devices within a predetermined designated area, and two or more jamming signal transmitters configured to prevent the RFID device reader from detecting and reading devices outside of the designated area. The jamming signal transmitters may include a pair of low-frequency field generator loops driven out of phase with one another. RFID devices for use with the detection system may have a pair of antennas, one for detection by the RFID reading system, and another antenna for use in receiving signals from the jamming signal transmitters, in order to prevent communication with a wireless communication device such as an RFID chip, to which the antennas are coupled. The two antennas may be coupled to the RFID chip in parallel, with the antennas each coupled to the same contacts of the RFID chip.

Abstract: Provided is a tire pressure monitoring system capable of preventing mistaken registration of ID due to radio interference. In the system, a tire pressure monitoring apparatus is switched into an ID registration mode while an ID is read out from a bar code or the like and is transmitted to the tire pressure monitoring apparatus. The tire pressure monitoring apparatus registers the received ID in a memory. After the completion of the registration of a necessary number of IDs, the tire pressure monitoring apparatus is switched into a normal mode, before the ID registration operation comes to an end. On the other hand, in the case of tire replacement, through the use of an ID registration tool, an ID is read out from a bar code adhered onto a tire detached and is transmitted to the tire pressure monitoring apparatus.

Abstract: A marker for remote detection of articles has an elongated sensor element with magnetic and electric properties. The elongated sensor element provides an electromagnetic reply signal when receiving an electromagnetic input signal. The elongated sensor element modulates the electromagnetic reply signal in response to an external magnetic modulating field. The marker also has means positioned in a vicinity of the elongated sensor element in the marker. The means is adapted to influence either the magnetic or the electric properties of the elongated sensor element in response to incident electromagnetic or magnetic energy, so that either the electromagnetic reply signal itself or the modulation thereof is substantially changed from an active state to a deactivated state.

Abstract: A method, system, and apparatus for interrogating a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag population are described. Tags are interrogated by a reader. The reader and tags engage in communication according to binary traversal algorithms, where single bit data symbols are exchanged between the reader and tags. Furthermore, a reader implicitly controls the operating state of every tag in the tag population by transmitting a single data symbol. Bit patterns may be collected from the tags by the reader, using a variety of interrogation techniques. In a general interrogation, the reader exchanges symbols with the tag population to interrogate the entire tag population. In a specific interrogation, a reader exchanges symbols with the tag population to target a particular tag identification number. Tags may also be placed in a superposition state by the reader, where they respond whenever a received data symbol matches the next bit of their identification number.

Abstract: A deactivator for deactivating label-style EAS devices is claimed. The preferred embodiment, of which, employs a microprocessor unit to control two transceiver coils, and a deactivation coil in series with a capacitor. The two transceiver coils are essentially two flat figure eights arranged concentrically but rotated through some angle with respect to each other. The transceiver coils are operated alternatively, first transmitting an interrogation signal and then listening for a response. When an EAS device is detected, the microprocessor unit drives the capacitor and deactivation coil at the system's resonant frequency to generate a high amplitude magnetic field then shifts the frequency of the driving current away from the resonant frequency to attenuate the magnetic field. A field sensor or current sensor provides feedback to the microprocessor to determine the resonant frequency of the system during a frequency sweep.

Abstract: An RFID tag is used to determine the presence or absence of a user. Rules or instructions responsive to this presence or absence are implemented to control a device or multiple devices accordingly. In this manner, a device can be maintained in a normal operating mode if a user is present, even though a user is not actively interacting with the device. Moreover, the device can be shut down or locked or be on restricted access if an authorized user is no longer in the presence of the device.

Abstract: A system is disclosed for preventing an unauthorized person from moving or stealing electronic devices having one or more USB ports, such as portable computers. The anti-theft system includes a USB device capable of connecting to a USB port of a computer and an alarm sub-system to cause an audible alarm to be generated based on a signal generated within the USB device.

Abstract: A method for producing a deactivatable tag is described including first short circuiting two opposite conductive layers at a predetermined place by using a heated tool applied on one of the layers, thereby permanently deforming such layer to produce a short, checking the quality of the short, and if the quality of the short is satisfactory, then connecting the two conductive layers with a crimp to obtain the desired frequency and finally removing the short by electrically or mechanically removing the short circuit to thereby bring the tag in the desired form ready for use and deactivation.

Abstract: A product label includes a semiconductor chip and an antenna. The semiconductor chip stores information about a product. The antenna transmits the information about the product to a reading device. The antenna has a predetermined breaking point at which the antenna can be destroyed during the reading operation by energy introduced by the reading device so that the product label can be read only for a specific number of read cycles. A method of producing product labels and a method for a contactless, forgery-proof identification of products are also provided.

Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag comprises RFID circuitry, an antenna, and a detector responsive to electromagnetic radiation of a predetermined frequency and for controlling cooperation between the RFID circuitry and the antenna when electromagnetic radiation of the predetermined frequency is detected. The detector may be responsive to light of the predetermined frequency to enable cooperation between the RFID circuitry and the antenna when light of the predetermined frequency is detected. Alternatively, the detector may be responsive to light of the predetermined frequency to disable cooperation between the RFID circuitry and the antenna when light of the predetermined frequency is detected.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling remote devices utilizing a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag device having a control circuit adapted to render the tag device, and associated objects, permanently inoperable in response to radio-frequency control signals. The control circuit is configured to receive the control signals that can include an enable signal, and in response thereto enable an associated object, such as a weapon; and in response to a disable signal, to disable the tag itself, or, if desired, to disable the associated weapon or both the device and the weapon. Permanent disabling of the tag can be accomplished by several methods, including, but not limited to, fusing a fusable link, breaking an electrically conductive path, permanently altering the modulation or backscattering characteristics of the antenna circuit, and permanently erasing an associated memory.

Abstract: A hand held security label deactivation device includes a handle body and a magnet array. The handle body preferably includes a first body half and a second body half. A cover lip is formed on one end of the handle and a cable loop is formed on the other end thereof. At least one of the body halves preferably includes a cavity for retaining a security label. The magnet array includes at least nine magnets retained on a ferrous plate with an alternating pole pattern. An inner perimeter of a magnet cover is sized to receive the magnet array and an outer perimeter of the cover lip. One end of a coiled security cable is preferably attached to the cable loop and the other end is attached to a checkout counter or the like.

Abstract: A data carrier (2) or an integrated circuit (41) for a data carrier (2) comprises a memory (54) which is designed to store intermediate operating state information (ZS, CI16, CI20, BRS) significant for an intermediate operating state of the data carrier (2) or the integrated circuit (41) and comprises a memory control device (51), which after the occurrence of information significant for intermediate operating states ensures that this intermediate operating state information is stored in the memory (54) and comprises a control device (51), which—after the detection of the non-existence of the supply voltage (V) required for faultless operation during execution of a communication sequence interrupted by this non-existence and the subsequent detection of the re-existence of the supply voltage (V)—ensure that the data carrier (2) or the integrated circuit (41) is controlled in an intermediate operating state for which intermediate operating state information (ZS, CI16, CI20, BRS) stored in the memory (54) is sig

Abstract: A contact free electronic label, such as those designed to be affixed on conductive surfaces, has an insulating support one side of which bears a first winding having its ends connected to an electronic circuit. The opposite side of the support bears a second winding whose ends are connected to conductive pads. This opposite side of the support is designed to be secured to a conductive surface via an insulating dielectric layer. The labels are designed to be affixed on products having conductive surfaces such as laser discs, gas bottles and the like.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to deactivate an EAS security tag are described.

Abstract: The disclosed embodiments of the present invention are used to permanently disable or destruct an RFID so that it is no longer possible to read some or all of the data encoded on the RFID tag. In one method for disabling data on a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag, an RFID tag is identified and its identity is confirmed. Verification that a prerequisite event has occurred is obtained, occurrence of which is required prior to disablement of the data. A destruct instruction is transmitted to the RFID tag. The RFID tag verifies that the destruct instruction is valid and disables the data upon verifying validity of the destruct instruction. The tag may disable the data by erasing the data, disabling the data, auto-destructing, or performing any operation that makes the data unreadable.

Abstract: A security seal for a freight car, freight container or other enclosure. The seal has an electronic timepiece which displays the time and date and is preset at an established reference time. A cut-resistant strap is secured at one end to the seal and has a latch at the other end. When the latch is passed through a lock and is engaged in a receiver in the seal, the strap is locked in place and the power to the timepiece is interrupted providing an indication of the time and date on which the lock was sealed. Other information may be applied to the seal at the time of sealing such as the identification of the individual responsible for the sealing.

Abstract: A Write Broadcast system and method uses a base station to write sent data to all or some selected number (sub group) of tags in a base station field simultaneously. By unselecting the tags that have been successfully written to, and requesting a response from the remaining tags in the field (or sub group), the system determines, by receiving a response to the request, that there are tags in the field (sub group) that were unsuccessfully written to. Another Write Broadcast signal is sent to these tags. The system is useful for quickly (simultaneously) “stamping” information on the tag memory of a large number of tags in the field of the base station.

Abstract: A deactivation apparatus for an electronic article surveillance tag having a plurality of layers and an equivalent resonant circuit containing an inductor and a capacitor is provided. The apparatus includes: a capacitor formed by a pair of conductive capacitor plates separated apart by a dielectric layer; an inductor connected to each of the pair of capacitor plates where an electromagnetic field of a preselected frequency at a first magnitude impinging upon the tag causes the equivalent resonant circuit to resonate and produce a detectable response from the tag; and, an electrically weakened area in the dielectric layer between the pair of conductive capacitor plates where the electromagnetic field at a second magnitude higher than the first magnitude impinging upon the tag causes a conductive path through the weakened area electrically connecting the pair of capacitor plates together and deactivating the tag.

Abstract: An electronic key capable of reinitializing or resetting a security disabled electronic article surveillance (EAS) device is provided. The electronic key can be a secure, portable, and battery powered for initializing a secured EAS system's security protocol to factory default state, or to another preselected state. The key has its own set of security protocols to prevent unauthorized use and can easily be reprogrammed for a wide variety of other functions including, but not limited to, firmware upgrading, diagnostic testing, and the like. The key can be connected to the programming port of an EAS device and perform a preset reprogramming operation, resetting activated security features. The key could be purchased for customer use, and would be secured by preselecting the total number of uses, such as one use. The one-time use would begin once the key is activated. Activation of the key is also uniquely controlled to prevent its misuse.

Abstract: A system, apparatus and method for supporting multiple reader-tag configurations and reader-tag distances using a single multi-mode tag. A multi-mode radio frequency (RF) transponder is provided, which includes operational tag circuitry configured to provide information in response to being activated by a reader device(s). Multiple antenna circuits are coupled to the operational tag circuitry, where each of the antenna circuits is configured to operate at a different reader-tag distance. At least one disabling circuit is coupled to the operational tag circuitry and to at least one of the antenna circuits, where the disabling circuit is configured to disable operation of at least one of the antenna circuits to which it is coupled.

Abstract: Vehicle security systems comprise at least one addressable transponder for communication with at least one base station. Each transponder and base station comprises a steerable directional antenna having an antenna azimuth sensor. Transponder and base station antenna azimuths assist in locating a vehicle carrying a transponder and allow near real-time estimation of vehicle heading. Base station networks facilitate location, tracking and/or interception of vehicles within a network geographic area. Use of multiple effective transmission ranges for transponders and/or base stations improves the accuracy of vehicle location.