WO2014172536A1

WO2014172536A1 - Cable collection tube for merchandise display

Info

Publication number: WO2014172536A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/034489
Authority: WO
Inventors: Larry Keith HOOKS, Jr.; John F. Roberts; David N. Berglund; Christopher J. Fawcett
Original assignee: Invue Security Products Inc.
Priority date: 2013-04-19
Filing date: 2014-04-17
Publication date: 2014-10-23

Abstract

A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise is provided. In one example, the security device includes a base adapted to be mounted on a support surface and a sensor coupled to an article of merchandise that is configured to be removably supported by the base. The security device also includes a cable collection tube configured to be coupled to, and beneath the support surface. The cable collection tube includes at least one engagement member. In addition, the security device includes a cable coupled to the sensor and at least partially positioned within the cable collection tube. The engagement member is configured to engage a portion of the cable to adjust a usable length of the cable.

Description

CABLE COLLECTION TUBE FOR MERCHANDISE DISPLAY

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/814,054, filed April 19, 2013, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to cable collection tubes for merchandise display security systems for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Retailers routinely display handheld electronic merchandise, such as mobile (e.g. cellular) telephones, gaming consoles, personal data assistants (PDAs), global positioning system (GPS) devices, e-readers, tablets, media players, digital video recorders (DVRs), cameras and the like, for customers to examine before making a purchase. In some instances, the retailer desires the handheld electronic merchandise to be provided with electrical power so that a potential purchaser can evaluate the operation and features of the merchandise as well. At the same time, the retailer does not want the article of merchandise being displayed to be stolen or removed from the display by an unauthorized person. Accordingly, the article of merchandise is attached to a merchandise display security device that protects the article of merchandise from theft and unauthorized removal from the display.

[0004] Merchandise display security systems for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise are known. Some of the known systems include a merchandise display security device that is mounted entirely above the support surface of the display, for example a display counter or shelf. Such "standalone" security devices typically include sense and power cords. As a result, a multitude of cords of adjacent merchandise display security devices can become entangled with one another. Regardless, the excess cords detract from the aesthetics of the display and take up valuable counter or shelf space that could otherwise be utilized to display additional merchandise.

[0005] Other of the known merchandise display security systems include a security device that is partially mounted on the support surface of the display, for example, on a display counter or shelf, above a closed cabinet or concealed enclosure. The remainder of the security device is located within the cabinet or enclosure so as to be inaccessible to customers, while remaining accessible to authorized personnel of the retail store for installation, removal, replacement or reconfiguration of the display. Placement of at least a portion of the merchandise display security devices within a cabinet or enclosure below the support surface of the display reduces the number of cords located above the support surface and restricts access to the vulnerable components of the security devices to authorized store personnel. However, the amount of available space beneath the support surface of the display is typically limited. The limited amount of space beneath the support surface of the display may prevent components of the security device located beneath the support surface from being positioned in a desirable orientation relative to components of the security device located above the support surface.

[0006] Accordingly, there exists a need for an improved merchandise display security system for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise from theft. There exists a further need for a merchandise display security device including a cable collection tube for more effectively managing cables beneath a support surface.

BRIEF SUMMARY

[0007] Embodiments of the present invention are directed to merchandise display security devices, cable collection tubes, and methods for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise are provided. In one embodiment, a merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise is provided. In one example, the security device includes a base adapted to be mounted on a support surface and a sensor coupled to an article of merchandise that is configured to be removably supported by the base. The security device also includes a cable collection tube configured to be coupled to, and beneath the support surface. The cable collection tube includes at least one engagement member (e.g., a pair of protrusions). In addition, the security device includes a cable (e.g., a helical coil cable) coupled to the sensor and at least partially positioned within the cable collection tube. The engagement member is configured to engage a portion of the cable to adjust a usable length of the cable.

[0008] In some embodiments, the cable collection tube is engaged with the support surface at a different location than the base. In other embodiments, the cable collection tube comprises a cable trap, the cable trap comprising the at least one engagement member. The cable trap may include a pivoting lid configured to cooperate with the at least one engagement member to secure the cable therein. The cable collection tube may also include an alarm support surface, such as for supporting an alarm module thereon.

[0009] In another embodiment, a cable collection tube for a merchandise display security system is provided. The cable collection tube includes a body for receiving a cable therein and a mounting element coupled to the body that is configured to engage a support surface such that the body is supported beneath the support surface. The cable collection tube also includes a cable trap coupled to the body and comprising at least one engagement member, the engagement member configured to engage a portion of the cable to adjust a usable length of the cable.

[0010] In some aspects, the cable collection tube comprises a cable trap, wherein the cable trap includes a pivoting lid configured to cooperate with the at least one engagement member to secure the cable therein. The cable trap may be removable secured to the body with a plurality of fasteners, and the pivoting lid may be configured to pivot about one of the fasteners. In addition, the cable collection tube may include a retaining flange configured to engage the support surface. At least a portion of the mounting element may be threaded, and the retaining flange may be configured to threadably engage the mounting element.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a method for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise is provided. The method includes mounting a base on a support surface and coupling a sensor to an article of merchandise, wherein the sensor is configured to be removably supported by the base. The method further includes securing a cable collection tube beneath the support surface, the cable collection tube comprising at least one engagement member, and positioning a cable coupled to the sensor at least partially within the cable collection tube. Moreover, the method includes engaging a portion of the cable with the engagement member to adjust a usable length of the cable. In one aspect, the method also includes securing an alarm module to the cable collection tube, and connecting the cable to the alarm module. In another aspect, the engaging step includes pivoting a lid coupled to a cable trap comprising the at least one engagement member.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a merchandise display security system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a merchandise display security system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a side perspective view of a merchandise display security system according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a cable collection tube and a sensor according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0016] FIG. 5 is a top view of a base according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a top view of a base according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a top view of an alarm module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cable collection tube according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective view of a cable trap of the cable collection tube shown in FIG. 8 engaged with a cable.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the cable trap shown in FIG. 8. [0022] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the cable trap shown in FIG. 10.

[0023] FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate various side views of a sequence of installing a merchandise display security system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which various embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0025] Referring now to the accompanying drawing figures wherein like reference numerals denote like elements throughout the various views, one or more exemplary embodiments of a merchandise display security system for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise are shown. More particularly, each exemplary embodiment is a merchandise display security device, indicated generally by reference character 20, for monitoring whether an article of merchandise, indicated generally by reference character M, is attached to the security device. As shown and described herein, the merchandise display security device 20 includes electronics for monitoring a proximity sensor in contact with the article of merchandise M and for activating an alarm in the event that the article of merchandise is separated (e.g., detached) from the security device. If desired, a merchandise display security device 20 according to an embodiment of the invention may also provide electrical power to the article of merchandise M so that a potential purchaser may evaluate the merchandise in a powered state without relying solely on power provided by the internal battery of the merchandise. Thus, the security device may be applicable to any merchandise display stand, module, pedestal or the like that permits a potential purchaser to examine an article of merchandise in an unpowered state or to operate an article of merchandise in a powered state.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a merchandise display security device 20 for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise M from theft or unauthorized removal from a display or other support surface 26, for example a tabletop, counter, shelf or the like, located in a retail store. The article of merchandise M is typically a display model or sample of handheld electronic merchandise, such as a mobile (e.g. cellular) telephone, smart phones, gaming console, personal data assistant (PDA), global positioning system (GPS) device, e-reader, tablet, media player, digital video recorder (DVR), handheld camera and the like, for customers to examine. The article of merchandise M is attached to the merchandise display security device 20 and may be displayed in a powered state so that potential purchasers are able to evaluate the operation and features of the merchandise when making a decision whether to purchase the item.

[0027] In some embodiments, the merchandise display security device 20 includes an optional power adapter cord 22 to provide electrical power to the article of merchandise M while the merchandise is on display (see, e.g., FIG. 4). The power adapter cord 22 has a connector plug 24 at one end configured to be received within a complementary connector jack at the power input port of the article of merchandise. In the illustrated embodiments shown in FIGS. 2-3, the article of merchandise M may be a cellular type mobile telephone or tablet. The article of merchandise M may have a power input port for receiving a power cord 22 for electrically connecting to an external power source, for example, an AC/DC transformer commonly referred to as a "charger," electrically connected to an external power source. In addition, the article of merchandise M may be provided with an internal battery that is recharged through the power cord by the external power source in a known manner. The power cord 22 has a known type of electrical connector 24 at one end configured for electrical connection to the power input port (see, e.g., FIG. 4). In the examples illustrated herein, the power input port is a female jack configured to receive a male plug, such as a USB jack and complementary USB plug. However, embodiments of the present invention are intended to be construed broadly to include any type of standard or custom connector interface now known or hereafter devised. It is only necessary that the power adapter cord 22 has an appropriate interface at one end to electrically connect the power adapter cord to the article of merchandise M being displayed on the merchandise display security device 20.

[0028] In one embodiment, the other end of the power adapter cord is "hard-wired" directly into a sensor 25 to which the article of merchandise M is attached. Alternatively, the other end of the power adapter cord may be provided with a connector interface configured for electrically connecting the power adapter cord to the sensor 25 of the merchandise display security device 20. In this manner, the power adapter cord 22 may be easily and quickly disconnected and discarded or replaced with another power adapter cord appropriate for a different type or model of handheld electronic merchandise.

[0029] The merchandise display security device 20 comprises a mounting element 30 positioned adjacent to a base 40, the base configured for removably supporting the sensor 25 and the article of merchandise M thereon in a display orientation. In one embodiment, the mounting element 30 is coupled to a cable collection tube 50 configured to receive, contain and retain therein a cable 60 that electrically connects the sensor 25 and, consequently, the article of merchandise M, to an external power source through an optional power cord 22 provided. In the event it is not necessary or desired to provide electrical power to the article of merchandise M, the power cord 22 may be omitted altogether. Alternatively, the merchandise display security device 20 and/or the article or merchandise M may be powered by the external power source through the power cord 22.

[0030] At least a portion of the cable 60 comprises a length of an elastic or otherwise extensible electrical cable that is contained within the cable collection tube 50 and coupled to the sensor 25. As shown in FIG. 4, a portion of the cable 60 may be a helical coil cable similar to a conventional telephone handset cord comprising an outer sheath made of an insulating material surrounding a plurality of conductors for a purpose to be described hereafter. One end of the cable 60 may include a connector 62, for example, a modular (RJ) telephone plug, configured to electrically connect the conductors of the cable to an alarm module 70. The other end of the cable 60 may be "hard-wired" into the sensor 25. However, if desired, the other end of the cable 60 may comprise a connector, for example, likewise a modular (RJ) telephone plug, configured to electrically connect the conductors of the cable to electronics disposed within the sensor 25.

[0031] The base 40 (sometimes referred to a "puck" or "medallion") comprises a body that may include an upwardly extending pedestal portion or wedge 42 for removably supporting the sensor 25 and the article of merchandise M in the desired display orientation above the support surface 26 (see, e.g., FIGS. 1-3). However, it is understood that the pedestal portion could be eliminated if desired and the base 40 placed directly on the support surface 26. If desired, the base 40 and the sensor 25 may be formed with opposing geometry, or alternatively, provided with one or more magnets for aligning the sensor and the article of merchandise M in the desired display orientation. The base 40 may be any desired shape and configuration depending on the article of merchandise M to be supported. As shown, the base 40 may be configured to support a camera, a smart phone, or a tablet. For instance, FIG. 5 shows a base 40 suitable for a camera, while FIG. 6 shows a base suitable for a phone or tablet.

[0032] The merchandise display security device 20 further includes an alarm module 70. In the illustrated embodiments, the alarm module 70 is mounted below the support surface 26. In particular the alarm module 70 may be mounted directly on the cable collection tube 50 (see, e.g., FIGS. 12C-12D). The cable collection tube 50 may include an alarm support surface 75 for receiving and supporting the alarm module. Thus, the alarm module 70 does not need to be mounted on the support surface 26, thereby further reducing the size of the base or other display device viewable by the customer. The alarm support surface 75 may be integrally formed with the cable collection tube or may be removably attached thereto (e.g., with fasteners). The alarm support surface 75 may be configured to rotate about the body 52 to a desired position and secured in place, which allows for flexibility in positioning the alarm module 70. In addition, the alarm support surface 75 may have a substantially planar surface for mounting the alarm module 70 thereon.

[0033] As also illustrated and described above, the alarm module 70 may be electrically coupled to the cable 60. The alarm module 70 may be further coupled to a power cord for receiving power from an external power source, which as also described above, may be used to pass power to the sensor 25 and/or article of merchandise M. For instance, FIG. 7 shows that the alarm module 70 may include a cord 72 and suitable connector for electrically connecting to an external power source. Furthermore, the alarm module 70 may include circuitry for receiving a security signal from the sensor 25, such as when the sensor has been removed from the article of merchandise M or a cable 60 has been cut. The alarm module 70 may further include functionality for providing an audible and/or a visible alarm.

[0034] In one embodiment, electronics (e.g., housed within base 40 and/or alarm module 70) may be electrically connected to the sensor 25 by one or more conductors disposed within one or more cables, such as cable 60. As such, electronics may operate to monitor the state of a sensor switch 27, for example, a conventional proximity or limit switch, provided on the sensor 25 through cable 60 and electronics to activate an audible and/or a visible alarm in the event that the article of merchandise M is separated from the sensor. In one embodiment, the base 40 may include electronics that are electrically connected to electronics in the alarm module 70 by an electrical cable or conduit 44 comprising at least one conductor (see, e.g., FIGS. 5-6). Electrical cable 44 may be disposed on the inside or the outside of the collection tube 50. Moreover, an end of the electrical cable 44 may include a connector 45 for releasably connecting to the alarm module 70.

[0035] Base 40 may further comprises a sensor switch, for example, a conventional proximity or limit switch when the base is engaged with the support surface 26. Sensor switch may be electrically connected to electronics, which operate to monitor the state of the switch and to activate an audible and/or a visible alarm in the event that base 40 is separated from the support surface 26 of the display. Base 40 may also comprise a communication port 48 for permitting communication with electronics to arm and disarm the alarm module 70 so that an authorized person can separate (e.g., detach) the article of merchandise M from the sensor 25, or separate (e.g., remove) the base from the support surface 26 of the display. For example, the communication port 48 may communicate via a wireless signal, such as via infrared communication, with a key. In some cases, the base 40 and/or the alarm module 70 may contain a security code, and the key may communicate the code to the base and/or the alarm module via the communication port 45 for arming or disarming the alarm module when the codes match. In one embodiment, the communication port 48 is accessible when the sensor is removed from the base 40, although it is understood that the communication port may be located at any desirable position on the base, or at another accessible location on the support surface 26.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 8, for example, the cable collection tube 50 may comprise an elongate, substantially cylindrical, substantially rigid, arcuate body 52 that is generally hollow to form an internal cavity sized sufficiently to house or otherwise receive at least a portion of the cable 60 and the connector 62 of the cable. However, it is understood that the body 52 of the cable collection tube may be other suitable shapes for accommodating the cable therein. In addition, an end portion 54 of the cable collection tube may be generally straight. The body 52 and end portion 54 may be integrally formed to define an internal cavity for receiving the cable 60, or the body and end portion could be formed separately and secured together. The configuration, and more particularly, the geometry of the cable collection tube 50 permits the cable 60 to be extended therefrom and retracted therein without kinking and without causing significant wear to the outer sheath. As such, the cable collection tube 50 protects the cable 60 when the sensor 25 and the article of merchandise M are removed from the display orientation of the base 40 by a potential purchaser to evaluate the operation and features of the merchandise.

[0037] The mounting element 30 may include a generally cylindrical, hollow portion 32 having a retaining flange 33 at an upper end configured to be supported on the support surface 26, such as a tabletop, counter, shelf or the like, of a display located in a retail store. The hollow portion 32 may be externally-threaded to receive an internally-threaded retaining flange 34 that secures the mounting element 30 on the support surface 26. The mounting element 30 is adapted to be inserted within a hole formed through the support surface 26 of a display and to be secured thereon by retaining flange 34. Thus, the support surface 26 may be disposed between the retaining flanges 33, 34. In a secured position, the mounting element 30 is located within or adjacent to the support surface 26, while the retaining flange 34 abuts the support surface so as to not be visible to a consumer. The hollow portion 32 may also include at least one groove 36 defined on an external surface. The groove 36 may be sized and configured to receive a portion of the cable 44. Thus, the groove 36 may be useful in securing and guiding the cable 44 from the base 40 and through the support surface 26.

[0038] The body 52 of the cable collection tube may be attached to the mounting element 30. For example, a portion of the body 52 may be insertable within the hollow portion 32, and a collar 35 may secure the body to the hollow portion. When retaining flange 34 engages the support surface 26 and the body 52 is secured to the mounting element 30, the cable collection tube 50 is secured in position relative to the support surface.

[0039] FIGS. 4 and 8-11 also illustrate that the cable collection tube 50 may further include a cable trap 80. The cable trap 80 is coupled to an end 54 of the cable collection tube 50, opposite the mounting member 30, and is configured to trap or otherwise secure a portion of the cable 60 therein. In this regard, cable trap 80 may include a pivoting lid member 85 configured to pivot to expose an inner portion of the cable trap and to close and attach to the cable trap (e.g., with a snap-fit). The cable trap 80 may further include at least one protrusion 90 or engagement member configured to engage the cable 60. In one embodiment, the cable trap 80 includes a plurality of protrusions 90. Where the cable 60 is a coiled cable, the cable may be manipulated such that a portion of the cable is positioned between the protrusions 90, thereby securing the cable therein. Thus, the cable trap 80 is configured to restrain a portion of the cable 60 such that the length of the cable extending from the cable trap to the sensor 25 may be adjusted. The lid member 85 may then be pivoted to a closed position, which further secures cable 60 within the cable trap 80. In this way, the cable trap 80 may be used to adjust the effective usable length of the cable 60. That is, the cable trap 80 may secure a portion of the cable 60 such that only the length of cable extending between the cable trap and the sensor 25 may be usable or otherwise capable of extending and retracting within the cable collection tube 50 and relative to the support surface 26. The remaining length of cable 60 extending between the cable trap 80 and the alarm module 70 may be held fixed.

[0040] The cable trap 80 may be various sizes and configurations. For example, the cable trap 80 may be formed in two halves 84, 86 and secured together and to the end 54 of the cable collection tube 50, such as with fasteners 88 as illustrated in FIG. 11. The pivoting lid member 85 may be configured to pivot about one of the fasteners 88 (see, e.g., FIG. 9). The inner surface of the cable trap 80 may define an internal opening for receiving the cable 60, which may be various configurations may be employed depending on the type of cable used. The cable trap 80 may be integrally formed with the body 52 or attached thereto. For example, securing the two halves 84, 86 may also secure the cable trap 80 to the body portion. In addition, FIG. 8 shows that each half 84, 86 may include a portion of a protrusion 90A, 90B such that the portions cooperate to define a protrusion extending across the internal opening of the cable trap.

[0041] Furthermore, the cable collection tube 50 may include various modular components, including the retaining flanges 33, 34 and cable trap 80 as discussed above. In some embodiments, the length of the cable collection tube 50 may also be adjustable to accommodate various cable 60 lengths. For example, the cable collection tube 50 may include an extension member that may be removably attached to its free end portion 54 (see, e.g., FIG. 4). The end portion 54 of the cable trap 80 may then be attached to the extension member. Thus, where more cable 60 length is retracted within the cable collection tube 50 to provide a shorter effective usable length, an extension member be used to adjust the length of the end portion 54 to accommodate the additional cable length below the support surface 26. For some items, such as cameras, the effective length of the cable 60 may be longer than another item, such as a mobile phone, such that an extension member may be preferable.

[0042] According to embodiments of the present invention, a plurality of the merchandise display security devices 20 may be installed utilizing the available space beneath the support surface 26 in an economical fashion, thereby maximizing the number of security devices on the display. It should be further noted that the body 52 of the cable collection tube 50 may be formed with an arcuate shape that limits the amount of vertical space beneath the support surface 26 required for installation of the merchandise display security device 20. Furthermore, the cable collection tube 50 may include various features that facilitate the usability of the cable 60. In addition, locating the alarm module 70 below the support surface 26 may also provide additional advantages in that the merchandise display security device 20 has a lower profile viewable by the customer. The base 40 and the cable collection tube 50 may also be independent of one another. In this regard, the base 40 may be supported directly on the support surface 26, while the cable collection tube 50 may be coupled to the support surface at a different location such that base may have a more streamlined and simpler construction.

[0043] FIGS. 12A-12D illustrate various views for securing a merchandise security device 20 in position on a support surface 26 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In this regard, FIG. 12A shows that base 40 and optional pedestal 42 may be secured to the support surface 26, such as with a pressure-sensitive adhesive. FIG. 12B shows that the cable collection tube 50 may then be secured to the support surface 26. For example, a hole may be formed in the support surface 26 so that the mounting element 30 and retaining flanges 33, 34 may be secured to the support surface. FIG. 12C shows that the alarm module 70 may then be mounted on the alarm support surface 75, such as with a pressure- sensitive adhesive. The cable 44 extending from the base 40 may also be routed through the support surface 26 and connected to the alarm module 70. FIG. 12D shows that the article of merchandise M may be secured to a sensor 25, such as with a pressure-sensitive adhesive, and supported on the base 40. The cable 60 connected to the sensor 25 may be routed through the cable collection tube 50. A usable length of the cable 60 may be determined and secured using the cable trap 80. The end of the cable 60 may then be connected to the alarm module 70. The alarm module may then be electrically connected to an external power source. It is understood that the aforementioned steps are provided as an example only, that the steps may be performed in any order, that some steps may be omitted, and that other steps may be added to perform the method.

[0044] Embodiments of a merchandise display security device including at least the aforementioned features have been shown and described herein for purposes of illustrating and enabling the best mode of the invention. Those of ordinary skill in the art, however, will readily understand and appreciate that numerous variations and modifications of the invention may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, all such variations and modifications are intended to be encompassed by the appended claims.

Claims

That which is claimed is:

1. A merchandise display security device for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise comprising: a base adapted to be mounted on a support surface; a sensor coupled to an article of merchandise and configured to be removably supported by the base; a cable collection tube configured to be coupled to, and beneath, the support surface and comprising at least one engagement member; and a cable coupled to the sensor and at least partially positioned within the cable collection tube, the engagement member configured to engage a portion of the cable to adjust a usable length of the cable.

2. The security device according to claim 1, wherein the collection tube comprises a generally hollow body for receiving the cable therethrough.

3. The security device according to claim 2, wherein the cable comprises an elastic cable containing at least a pair of conductors that electrically connect the cable to the sensor, and wherein the cable is extensible and retractable relative to the collection tube.

4. The security device according to claim 3, wherein at least a portion of the cable is a helical coil cable.

5. The security device according to claim 1, wherein the at least one engagement member comprises a pair of protrusions.

6. The security device according to claim 1, wherein the cable collection tube is engaged with the support surface at a different location than the base.

7. The security device according to claim 1, wherein the cable collection tube comprises a cable trap, the cable trap comprising the at least one engagement member.

8. The security device according to claim 7, wherein the cable trap comprises a pivoting lid configured to cooperate with the at least one engagement member to secure the cable therein.

9. The security device according to claim 1, wherein the cable collection tube further comprises an alarm support surface.

10. The security device according to claim 9, further comprising an alarm module coupled to the alarm support surface beneath the support surface.

11. A cable collection tube for a merchandise display security system, the cable collection tube comprising: a body for receiving a cable therein; a mounting element coupled to the body and configured to engage a support surface such that the body is supported beneath the support surface; and a cable trap coupled to the body and comprising at least one engagement member, the engagement member configured to engage a portion of the cable to adjust a usable length of the cable.

12. The cable collection tube according to claim 11, wherein the at least one engagement member comprises a pair of protrusions.

13. The cable collection tube according to claim 11, wherein the cable collection tube comprises a cable trap, the cable trap comprising the at least one engagement member.

14. The cable collection tube according to claim 13, wherein the cable trap comprises a pivoting lid configured to cooperate with the at least one engagement member to secure the cable therein.

15. The cable collection tube according to claim 14, wherein the cable trap is removable secured to the body with a plurality of fasteners, and wherein the pivoting lid is configured to pivot about one of the fasteners.

16. The cable collection tube according to claim 11, wherein the cable collection tube further comprises an alarm support surface for supporting an alarm module thereon.

17. The cable collection tube according to claim 11, wherein the cable collection tube further comprises at least one retaining flange configured to engage the support surface.

18. The cable collection tube according to claim 16, wherein at least a portion of the mounting element is threaded, and wherein the at least one retaining flange is configured to threadably engage the mounting element.

19. A method for displaying and protecting an article of merchandise comprising: mounting a base on a support surface; coupling a sensor to an article of merchandise, the sensor configured to be removably supported by the base; securing a cable collection tube beneath the support surface, the cable collection tube comprising at least one engagement member; positioning a cable coupled to the sensor at least partially within the cable collection tube; and engaging a portion of the cable with the engagement member to adjust a usable length of the cable.

20. The method of Claim 19, further comprising securing an alarm module to the cable collection tube.

21. The method of Claim 20, further comprising connecting the cable to the alarm module.

22. The method of Claim 19, wherein engaging comprises pivoting a lid coupled to a cable trap comprising the at least one engagement member.