RETAIL THEFT PREVENTION AND INFORMATION DEVICE

摘要

A device (10) and system for automatic identification of the item and for preventing the theft of the item. The device comprises a frequency activation circuit (22), a power source (28), a switch (48), a memory device (30) and transmitter circuitry (32, 22). The memory device stores a code identifying the product. The frequency activation circuitry receives an external frequency signal and generates an activation signal to couple power to the memory and thereby cause the memory to output the code. The transmitter receives the code and converts it into a frequency modulated signal. The device may also be secured to an item for the purpose of preventing theft of the item. In such a case a frequency reader activates a deactivating device to disable the frequency transmitter after reading the code. An alarm is located next to the exit of the building to activate an alarm if a frequency code is received indicating the presence of an item with an active device.