Tamper Detection in AC-Powered Tags

摘要

A pass-through tag detects whether it remains attached to a host device and/or the power supply for the host device. The pass-through tag sends a test signal toward the host device and monitors for a response signal indicating that the pass-through tag is coupled to the host device. The test signal may be applied along the power conductors or along isolated conductors dedicated to the tamper detection system. If the response signal, or the lack of a response signal after a pre-determined amount of time, indicates that the pass-through tag has been unplugged from the host device, then the pass-through tag can alert a central server through an RF transceiver in the tag.

主权项

1. A method comprising:
electrically connecting a pass-through tag to a host device; applying a test signal along a connection between the pass-through tag and the host device; monitoring for a response signal corresponding to the test signal to determine whether the pass-through tag is electrically connected to the host device; responsive to a determination that the pass-through tag is not electrically connected to the host device, transmitting a tamper alarm signal.