Insights · EAS Systems
RF and AM are the two dominant EAS technologies in retail. They look similar at the door, but they perform very differently depending on your store. Here’s how to choose the right one.
RF (Radio Frequency) EAS operates at 8.2 MHz and is the most widely installed EAS technology in the world — cost-effective, reliable, and ideal for clothing and soft-goods retailers. AM (Acousto-Magnetic) EAS operates at 58 kHz and is the premium choice for high-traffic, metal-heavy, or foil-product environments.
| Feature | RF EAS | AM EAS |
|---|---|---|
| Operating frequency | 8.2 MHz | 58 kHz |
| Detection range | Up to ~1.2 m between pedestals | Up to ~1.8 m between pedestals |
| False alarms | Moderate — affected by electronics & metal | Very low — highly resistant |
| Label cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Tag cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Performance near metal | Reduced | Excellent |
| Performance with foil/liquid | Poor | Excellent |
| Best for | Clothing, soft goods, small shops | Supermarkets, hardware, busy entrances |
RF is the smart, budget-friendly choice for:
RF systems like the RF Century and RF Claro deliver excellent protection at the lowest entry cost.
AM is the right choice when:
AM systems like the Plexi Plus, Omnia Loop, and Ground Antenna are trusted by major retailers across Southern Africa.
RF systems cost less upfront. AM systems cost more but deliver better detection, fewer false alarms, and longer tag life. The right choice depends on your store’s traffic, stock profile, and tolerance for false alarms — not just the initial budget.
Our team will assess your entrance, stock profile, and customer flow, then recommend the technology that protects your stock and your budget. Book a free on-site survey today.
Book a free on-site survey and we’ll recommend the right technology.
Book a Free EAS Survey