SYSTEM FOR TESTING REUSABLE ELECTRONIC ARTICLE SURVEILLANCE TAGS AND METHOD THEREFOR

摘要

A system and method for automatically sorting, cleaning, testing and counting reusable visible source tags (VSTs) and for detecting and rejecting tags that are not functioning within predetermined parameters. The system includes a first sub-system that stores and feeds the VSTs to a vibratory bowl where they are initialized. A second sub-system transfers the tags from the vibratory bowl and sorts the tags assuring the tags are reusable rather than disposable tags. A third sub-system tests the reusable tags to assure compliance with select parameters such as frequency and amplitude. If the reusable tags comply with the parameters then they are deemed activatable. The system may also automatically sort and count the accepted and rejected tags. The system disclosed herein is capable of testing VSTs at a high speeds, e.g., up to 150 units per minute, with the required quality level and reliability.