Cross point NEXUS AM User manual

Technical Manual
NEXUS AM Deactivator

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Terms and abbreviations v2.1 Page 2 of 26
Table of contents
Technical Manual......................................................................................................................... 1
NEXUS AM Deactivator ............................................................................................................... 1
1Terms and abbreviations...................................................................................................... 4
2Introduction ........................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Field Bus Network structure .......................................................................................... 5
2.2 Restrictions and limitations............................................................................................ 5
2.2.1 Usage in metal environments............................................................................ 5
2.2.2 Software restrictions.......................................................................................... 6
2.2.3 Detection/deactivation distances....................................................................... 6
2.3 Stand-alone usage ........................................................................................................ 7
2.4 Field Bus Network structure .......................................................................................... 7
2.5 Technical and mechanical specifications...................................................................... 8
3General AM and EAS issues ................................................................................................ 9
3.1 Noise sources................................................................................................................ 9
3.2 Installation guidelines.................................................................................................... 9
3.3 Safety instructions ....................................................................................................... 10
3.3.1 Serviceable parts............................................................................................. 10
4Equipment and tools........................................................................................................... 11
4.1 General installation tools............................................................................................. 11
4.2 Laptop computer.......................................................................................................... 11
4.3 Software ...................................................................................................................... 11
5AM operating principle ....................................................................................................... 12
5.1 Synchronization principle ............................................................................................ 13
6Connections......................................................................................................................... 15
7Configuration....................................................................................................................... 16
7.1 Other devices .............................................................................................................. 16
7.2 Synchronization........................................................................................................... 17
7.2.1 Manual synchronization................................................................................... 18
7.2.2 Automatic synchronization .............................................................................. 18
7.3 Device events.............................................................................................................. 19
7.4 Deactivation history..................................................................................................... 20
7.5 Notifications................................................................................................................. 21
7.6 Notifications I/O settings.............................................................................................. 22
7.7 Settings........................................................................................................................ 23
7.7.1 Tag detector .................................................................................................... 24
7.8 Tuning.......................................................................................................................... 25

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Terms and abbreviations v2.1 Page 3 of 26
8FCC STATEMENT................................................................................................................ 26

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Terms and abbreviations v2.1 Page 4 of 26
1 Terms and abbreviations
This chapter describes the terms and abbreviations used in this document.
Term
Abbreviation
Explanation
(Hard) Tag
Tag
Passive component, equipped with a lock
to allow attachment to garments, which
can be detected by the receiver.
(Paper) Label
Label
Passive component, usually equipped
with glue on one side to allow attaching
the label to any object, which can be
detected by the receiver.
Antenna
ANT
The mechanical structure (which usually
consists of a frame, wires and electronic
PCB) to allow proper detection of tags
and labels.
Also referred to as: pedestal, barrier.
Burst Frequency
Fb
The operating frequency of the TRX.
Device Explorer
Device Explorer
Cross Point Device Explorer
Software tool for adjustment of Cross
Point devices that are connected to the
Cross Point Field Bus structure (RS-485).
EAS
EAS
Electronic Article Surveillance
Foiled Twisted Pair
FTP
The FTP cable is surrounded by an outer
foil shield.
I/O
I/O
Digital Input/Output
Printed Circuit Board
PCB
The electronic board.
Radio Frequency
RF
Electronic signals generated by a
transmitter and detected by a receiver.
Receiver
RX
Electronic device capable of receiving
AM signals.
Transceiver
TRX
Electronic device capable of transmitting
and receiving AM signals, sharing the
same electronic circuitry and housing.
Also referred to as mono-antenna.
Unshielded Twisted Pair
UTP
Common network cable.

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Introduction v2.1 Page 5 of 26
2 Introduction
The NEXUS AM Deactivator is a combined label detector and label deactivator, designed
for high speed & long distance detection and deactivation of AM labels.
Figure 1: NEXUS AM Deactivator
The NEXUS AM Deactivator can be used as a stand-alone unit or can be connected with
Cross Point's Web based Integrated Loss Prevention Platform, CrossCONNECT,
allowing reports on deactivation statistics to be generated as well as easy (online)
maintenance.
2.1 Field Bus Network structure
The NEXUS AM Deactivator can be connected to Cross Point’s AM systems through
CAT5 wiring and can be connected to a host (e.g. a CrossCONNECT Access Point or a
computer) and communicate with this host using the Cross Point Field Bus Protocol.
This allows retrieval of device information and various settings to be made through use of
the software.
All this functionality is described further on in this manual.
2.2 Restrictions and limitations
The following restrictions and limitations must be considered:
2.2.1 Usage in metal environments
The NEXUS AM Deactivator cannot be installed in environments where metal surfaces
are within 15cm distance of the deactivator’s antenna. Metal has a negative effect on the
performance of the deactivator because it de-tunes the antenna, which decreases the
detection and deactivation power. Always test the deactivator first before mounting it!
Do not install the NEXUS AM Deactivator in checkouts or desks which
consist of metal!

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Introduction v2.1 Page 6 of 26
2.2.2 Software restrictions
The NEXUS AM Deactivator must be tuned with Cross Point’s Device Explorer software.
During setup of Device Explorer you are required to specify your dealer code in order to
be able to use the Device Explorer software. If you do not have a dealer code yet then
contact Cross Point to obtain one.
2.2.3 Detection/deactivation distances
The specified detection distances are maximum values. Dependent of environmental
noise these maximum values might not be achieved. See chapter 2.3 for more details on
potential noise sources and installation guidelines.

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Introduction v2.1 Page 7 of 26
2.3 Stand-alone usage
The NEXUS AM Deactivator can be used as stand-alone unit. Adjustments for
synchronization, sensitivity and notifications can be made through the Cross Point Device
Explorer software on a laptop/PC.
Figure 2: Field Bus connection
2.4 Field Bus Network structure
The NEXUS AM Deactivator can be integrated in Cross Point’s Field Bus network in
combination with NEXUS AM anti-shoplifting systems.
Figure 3: Field Bus structure in combination with NEXUS RF
By connecting the NEXUS AM Deactivator in the NEXUS AM network, reports on
deactivation statistics as well as internet connectivity and remote maintenance can be
enabled. See the “Manual CrossCONNECT Access Point” (www.crosspoint.nl) for further
information.
Ethernet
Field Bus
Device Explorer
Dealer Access Point
AM Deactivator
Device Explorer
CrossCONNECT
Access Point
Ethernet
or LAN
Field Bus
Field Bus
Field Bus
Transceiver
Receiver
AM Deactivator

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Introduction v2.1 Page 8 of 26
2.5 Technical and mechanical specifications
Table 1 shows the mechanical and technical specifications of the NEXUS AM
Deactivator.
Specifications
Dimensions (L x W x H)
280 x 240 x 65mm
Power supply
230VAC or 115VAC 50-60Hz
Current consumption
115VAC –320mA
230VAC –160mA
Temperature range
0 –50oC
Frequency
58kHz
Technology
Pulse-listening Acoustic Magnetic (AM)
Detection range
Up to 18cm* (with DR label)
Deactivation range
Up to 18cm* (with DR label)
Table 1: Specifications
*differs for different brands and environment
Figure 4: NEXUS AM Deactivator dimensions
65mm
240mm
280mm
Front view
Top view

NEXUS AM Deactivator
General AM and EAS issues v2.1 Page 9 of 26
3 General AM and EAS issues
This chapter covers the various issues related to Acoustic Magnetic systems,
deactivators and Electronic Article Surveillance systems in general, like:
Noise sources
Installation guidelines
3.1 Noise sources
Listed below are various noise sources that might affect the performance of any EAS
system and deactivator. It is strongly advised to either eliminate these noise sources (as
far as possible) or maintain the largest possible distance to these noise sources.
The following devices can create noise signals or absorb AM signals which can reduce
the performance of an EAS system and AM deactivator:
AM systems installed in the same or other shops.
Any electronic device that operates around 58kHz or produces harmonic
frequencies around 58kHz.
An active laptop. The converter for the backlight in the screen can create a lot of
noise which is detected by the EAS system or deactivator and can reduce the
performance dramatically. Make sure to keep laptop computers at least 3 meters
away from the antennas.
(Moving) Objects containing metal, like checkouts, sliding and revolving doors,
elevators, escalators, roller shutters, frames, etc.
Electronic devices, like computers, laptop screens, LCD screens, cash registers,
engines, transformers, etc.
Vertically positioned power cables, both low voltage and high voltage.
Lights (flashing, fluorescent, halogen, gas-discharge, etc.)
Metal scan systems installed in close vicinity. Cross Point’s Metal Scan operates
around 19kHz in channel 0 and has a third harmonic frequency around 58kHz.
3.2 Installation guidelines
Listed below are EAS installation guidelines to ensure a proper installed and functioning
system. Not following these guidelines might result in less performance of the NEXUS
AM Deactivator.
1. Check the shop carefully for possible noise sources prior to installation. If
possible noise sources are found then try to eliminate these sources or pick the
best position for the deactivator where the influence of these noise sources will
be minimized.
2. Avoid unnecessary long cables. If the deactivator is connected to the NEXUS
AM system, run the UTP cables in a direct line to the EAS antennas.
3. The NEXUS AM Deactivator is powered by 230VAC or 115VAC mains power.
The mains power frequency is 50-60Hz.
4. Mount the deactivator in recessed position into a (cash)desk. Dimensions for the
cut-out area are 240 x 200mm.
5. Make sure to properly insert the cables in the connectors.

NEXUS AM Deactivator
General AM and EAS issues v2.1 Page 10 of 26
3.3 Safety instructions
This chapter contains information on safe usage of the NEXUS AM Deactivator. Read
this section carefully as it contains important safety guidelines.
The NEXUS AM Deactivator generates high inducted voltage signals up
to 400VDC. If the housing is opened without disconnecting the mains
power first, a high risk of electric shock is introduced.
Therefore always disconnect the mains power first and wait at least 30
seconds before opening the housing.
1. The NEXUS AM Deactivator must be mounted in such a way that it’s always
possible to disconnect it from the mains power.
2. Always disconnect the mains power prior to opening the housing.
3. After the mains power has been disconnected, wait at least 30 seconds to allow
the high voltage to discharge.
4. Only open the housing in case:
a. The mains voltage needs to be adjusted from 230VAC (default setting) to
115VAC or vice versa. Use switch SW1 to change the mains voltage
setting.
b. The device is not working and one of the internal fuses needs to be
checked or replaced.
c. The device is not working and the antenna connection needs to be
checked.
d. The battery for the internal clock needs to be replaced.
5. Do not place magnetic data holders, like bank cards, credit cards, tapes, etc.,
close to the NEXUS AM Deactivator, because the magnetic field will destroy the
information that is stored on the magnetic data holder. Keep these objects at
least 50cm away from the deactivator’s antenna while deactivation is active.
3.3.1 Serviceable parts
The following parts of the NEXUS AM Deactivator are serviceable after following the
above mentioned safety instructions:
1. External main fuse 160mA (230VAC) or 315mA (115VAC). Make sure to replace
this fuse accordingly when the power input is switched!
2. Internal mains power switch for 230VAC to 115VAC. Make sure to replace the
external fuse accordingly when the power input is switched!
3. Internal fuses F1 (T500mA) and F2 (T500mA)
4. Internal battery CR 1225 (3V lithium)

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Equipment and tools v2.1 Page 11 of 26
4 Equipment and tools
The following equipment and tools are advised to use when installing and tuning the
NEXUS AM system.
4.1 General installation tools
The general tools required for installation of an EAS system (drills, screwdrivers, cutters,
etc.) are not described in detail.
4.2 Laptop computer
To properly adjust the NEXUS AM Deactivator through Cross Point’s
software, it is strongly recommended to use a laptop computer.
A laptop will put you in full control of all NEXUS AM Deactivator
settings and features.
The following minimal requirements are set for the laptop:
Intel 1.3GHz or faster processor
Microsoft Windows XP Home or Professional with Service Pack 3 (32 bit) or
Service Pack 2 (64 bit)
Microsoft Windows Vista with Service Pack 2 (32 bit and 64 bit)
Microsoft Windows 7 with Service Pack 1 (32 bit and 64 bit)
Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 Service Pack 1
512MB of RAM (1024MB recommended)
50MB of available hard-disk space for Device Explorer
Minimal screen resolution 1024x768 (recommended 1600x1200)
Video hardware acceleration
4.3 Software
The NEXUS AM Deactivator is interconnected through the Cross Point Field Bus.
To be able to adjust and configure the NEXUS AM Deactivator, Cross Point Device
Explorer is required.
Please refer to the Cross Point Device Explorer User Manual for further details on all
features and usage of this software.

NEXUS AM Deactivator
AM operating principle v2.1 Page 12 of 26
5 AM operating principle
The NEXUS AM Deactivator operates on the pulse-listening principle. Using the zero
crossing of the 50Hz mains frequency as a trigger, a short burst of 58kHz signal is
transmitted and a receiver window is ‘opened’ after the transmission burst has stopped.
If a label/tag was present within detection range during the transmission burst, the
resonance of this label/tag will be detected in the receiver window and a deactivation
burst is triggered.
A single 50Hz mains frequency cycle is dived into three phases; phase A, B and C. Each
phase covers 1/3 of the 50Hz cycle duration.
A noise reference window is opened to detect the environmental noise. This signal is
compared with the signal received in the receiver window and allows the software to
properly distinguish a tag signal from a noise signal.
Figure 5 shows the AM operating principle (at 50Hz, with a default delay of 200μs) during
one 50Hz cycle.
Figure 5: AM operating principle
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
Phase C
Phase B
Phase A

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AM operating principle v2.1 Page 13 of 26
5.1 Synchronization principle
When multiple AM systems and deactivators are installed in each other’s vicinity, it’s very
important to properly synchronize the transmission burst and receiver windows for all
systems involved. If systems are not properly synchronized they might create false
alarms and poor detection! Keep in mind that AM signals, when compared to other EAS
technologies, can “travel” quite far.
Figure 6 shows two AM systems that are not properly synchronized.
Figure 6: Two AM systems NOT synchronized
The transmission burst of system B starts later than the burst of system A, resulting in the
fact that system A is receiving the transmission burst of system B in its receiver window.
This will create false alarms and poor detection on system A, where system B will
function properly as the transmission burst of system A is not affecting the receiver
window of system B.
This problem can be solved by making sure that both systems transmit and receive at the
same moment, which can be realized by changing the delay time for one of the two
systems.
Example:
System A has currently a delay time of 0.2ms and system B a delay time of 1.4ms. The
delay time of system B needs to be corrected to the delay time of system A (or vice
versa), so their mutual transmission burst and detection windows will overlap each other
(see Figure 7). This will result in both systems working properly without interference (see
Figure 8).
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
20ms
0ms
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
System A
System B
50Hz mode

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AM operating principle v2.1 Page 14 of 26
Figure 7: Correcting the delay time of system B
Figure 8 shows two AM systems that are properly synchronized.
Figure 8: Two AM systems properly synchronized
The synchronization can be performed by making use of Cross Point’s software. The
exact synchronization procedures are described in chapter 0.
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
20ms
0ms
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
System A
System B
50Hz mode
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
20ms
0ms
Transmission burst
Receiver window
Reference window
System A
System B
50Hz mode

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Connections v2.1 Page 15 of 26
6 Connections
This section explains the various connections of the NEXUS AM.
NEXUS AM Deactivator connections explanation
1
Relay connections, potential free. Can be triggered during deactivation.
Nominal switching capacity: 2A, 30VDC
Normally Open (NO), Common (COM) and Normally Closed (NC)
2
I/O connections: GND and I/O-1. Can be used as input for a foot switch.
3
External LEDs connector. Type: RJ-11
Do not connect a telephone line to this connector!
4
Termination switch. Used to terminate the Field Bus. Must be activated when this
device is the last device in the Field Bus.
Pushed: terminated, a red LED between the relay and I/O connectors lights up.
Not pushed: not terminated.
5
BUS-A: Field bus connector
6
BUS-B: Field bus connector
7
Main fuse: 160mA (230VAC) or 315mA (115VAC)
8
Mains power inlet: 230VAC (default setting) or 115VAC
Use SW1 to switch to 115VAC if required (see chapter 3.3).
2
1
3
4
5
6
7
8

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Configuration v2.1 Page 16 of 26
7 Configuration
The NEXUS AM Deactivator must be configured with Cross Point Device Explorer. This
chapter covers all settings.
It is expected that you already have experience with Cross Point Device Explorer. Please
refer to the Cross Point Device Explorer User Manual and the Technical Manual
NEXUS AM in case you need further information. All manuals can be downloaded from
www.crosspoint.nl.
7.1 Other devices
The AM Deactivator is located in the ‘Other devices’ section of Device Explorer.
Figure 9: Other devices
After entering the ‘Other devices’ screen, the Scope view of the AM Deactivator is shown.
The scope view shows the threshold level (red line) and signal level (blue line).
Furthermore a noise level indicator is visible that shows the amount of ambient noise that
is being picked-up by the deactivator.
The threshold level can be adjusted either manually or automatically. In automatic mode,
the deactivator will continuously adjust the threshold level to the best value, dependent of
the ambient noise.
The NEXUS AM deactivator must detect a label first before it will deactivate the label.
The detection height of a label is determined by the Sensitivity setting. The detection
sensitivity can be adjusted manually between 1 (lowest sensitivity) and 10 (highest
sensitivity).

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Configuration v2.1 Page 17 of 26
7.2 Synchronization
When AM systems or AM deactivators are installed in relative close vicinity of each other,
it is of extreme high importance that the transmission bursts of all transmitters
(transceivers) occur at the same moment. To be able to view and change the position of
these transmission bursts, the Synchronization screen is available.
When the Synchronization screen is open, the transmission burst of this
deactivator is disabled. As a result of this, the deactivator will not detect
any labels! Make sure to leave this screen to enable detection and
deactivation of labels again.
When the transmission bursts are not synchronized properly, unwanted deactivations and
reduced sensitivity will be the result. The Synchronization screen will show exactly if and
where other system transmission bursts are detected.
Figure 10: Synchronization
We now have two ways of synchronizing the systems; manually or automatically.
It is advised to tilt the deactivator in a vertical position when
synchronizing the unit, as it will detect other AM systems and
deactivators better, making it easier to properly synchronize all AM
devices.

NEXUS AM Deactivator
Configuration v2.1 Page 18 of 26
7.2.1 Manual synchronization
By default the transmission burst can be synchronized manually by dragging and moving
the burst throughout the complete 20ms time base.
Just hover the mouse cursor over our transmission burst (the cursor will change to a
horizontal double arrow) and press down your left mouse button. While keeping the
mouse button pressed, move the transmission burst and position it on top of the other
system’s transmission burst. Together with moving the transmission burst, also the
receiver and reference windows will move automatically since they have a fixed reference
to the transmission burst.
Figure 10 shows the deactivator’s transmission burst having been placed exactly over the
transmission burst of another AM system/deactivator. The deactivator’s tag detection
window is in a clear part of the detection band, which results in proper performance of the
deactivator.
7.2.2 Automatic synchronization
Click the Automatic synchronization button to open the underlying menu.
Start automatic synchronization mode7.2.2.1
When this option is selected, the software will detect the best position for the
transmission burst. Just click the Automatic Sync button and within 10 to 15 seconds the
software will have determined the best burst offset position.
This option can only be used when other AM systems or AM Deactivators are visible in
the synchronization screen.
Temporarily disabling entrance bursts7.2.2.2
When you start synchronizing entrance(s), start by selecting the Synchronization page of
the first entrance. It is very useful to switch the transmission bursts of all other entrances
off, so you can determine if there are any other AM systems or deactivators in the area,
to which you must synchronize your deactivator.
Click on the green checkmark in front of the entrance/deactivator name to disable the
transmission burst of that entrance/deactivator. The disabled icon will appear,
indicating the transmission burst for that entrance/deactivator is switched off. Click this
icon again to switch the burst on again.
When you leave the Synchronization page, all disabled entrances/deactivators will
automatically start bursting again.

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Configuration v2.1 Page 19 of 26
7.3 Device events
The Device events screen shows a list of events that occurred on the selected
deactivator. All events are date & time stamped.
Figure 11: Device events
The events page show security events, status events and configuration events. Each
event type can be distinguished by means of their individually colored icons.
By default all types of alarms are displayed, but pressing one or more of the filter buttons
will show or hide the selected events.
Click the Delete button to delete all events in the list and to permanently remove them
from the connected antennas.
Click the Refresh button to refresh the event list.
All events are date & time stamped, so it’s easy to find out when they occurred.

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Configuration v2.1 Page 20 of 26
7.4 Deactivation history
The Deactivation history page shows a detailed list of the deactivations for the selected
day.
Figure 12: Deactivation history
By default both the successful and failed deactivations are displayed, but pressing one or
more of the filter buttons will show or hide the selected deactivations and (if
configured as detector) the detected tags.
Click the Delete button to delete all deactivations in the list and to permanently
remove them from the selected deactivator.
All deactivations are date & time stamped, so it’s easy to find out when they occurred.
Click the Previous or Next day buttons to view deactivations that occurred on
these days.
The Problem threshold level can be set to a percentage of accepted failed deactivations.
For example, if this threshold is set to 10%, a problem will be created if more than 10% of
all deactivations for that day have failed. The minimum allowed value is 1%. Set this
value to 100% to disable this functionality.