Questions and Answers about the iSpy System

1. What are the currently available divisions of the iSPY SYSTEM?
iSPY E2 – equestrian equipment such as saddles, helmets, tack trunks, trailers, golf carts and carriages
iSPY X – extreme equipment such as, but not limited to, skis, surfboards, snowboards and mountain bikes

2. What is an RFID transponder? How does it work?
RFID means radio frequency identification. A passive RFID transponder is a microchip (smaller than a dime) that sends out an encoded radio signal the RFID reader is scanned over the area where the microchip is installed. The RFID reader/ scanner supplies an electromagnetic power, which allows the microchip to transmit a radio signal. The microchip’s signal contains a unique, tamper proof identification number encoded onto the chip during the manufacturing process. The reader/ scanner device will then display the number to the user.

3. How long is the life of a microchip?
Since there is no battery needed, the iSPY microchip can out live the product it is installed in.

4. Is the iSPY microchip a tracking device?
No. Any and all microchips at this point are merely an identification tool. They are not equipped with the technology to follow, track and locate a product. The benefit is that once the product is found, it can be properly identified and expedite the return to the current owner.

5. How is the iSPY microchip a theft deterrent and permanent product identification system?
Products are marked with the iSPY logo stamp. The stamp holds the foot logo, so if the product should turn up or someone tries to re-sell it, they will see the foot logo and know there is an iSPY microchip inside of the product.

6. How does the iSPY microchip help in recovering my product?
Within many industries many items look identical. The partnership between the iSPY microchip and the iSPY database system offers to police, retail stores, resorts and competitions a permanent and authentic form of identification. An added bonus to retailers is the iSPY microchip system can help eliminate the worry of selling stolen goods. The iSPY microchip’s unique, tamper proof identification number is linked to your account and proves your ownership.

7. Where do I get my iSPY microchip installed?
You have 3 options depending on what you are using it for; by a retail store, manufacturer or at a competition. The installation only takes minutes. If you purchased your iSPY microchip from your local retail store, then they will install it for you. Some products, if purchased new, may already have the iSPY microchip installed during the manufacturing stage. At local competitions on the east coast, look for an iSPY Official Agent or Team Specialist who can perform the installation while you wait.

8. How is the iSPY microchip installed?
The installation guide walks you through the correct process for installation in the products listed for each division.

9. What is the purpose of the ID Tag?
The ID Tag corresponds to the iSPY microchip number in the iSPY database.  Once you have activated your iSPY microchip, attach your iSPY ID Tag to your key chain, just like your supermarket key tag.  In case your product is ever lost or stolen, you will have immediate access to the iSPY SYSTEM Team and your account number no matter where you are.

10. Why do I have to activate my iSPY microchip?
By activating your iSPY microchip, you have now added another measure of permanent identification.  In case your product is ever stolen or lost, you have a greater chance of recovering your product.  The activation page holds pertinent information about the microchip and ID tag numbers, as well as, owner and product information. Your iSPY account also holds passwords that only you know, which ensures no one can make changes to your account.

11. What happens if I don’t activate my iSPY microchip?
The iSPY database holds all the information that is needed to identify the product in any circumstance.  The iSPY microchip will respond to the reader/ scanner, but without the account activated, the iSPY microchip can not help in the recovery and return of your product.

12.If I have another microchip installed in my product, can I register it with the iSPY SYSTEM?
Yes, of course! There is a one-time nominal, activation fee for setting up and maintaining your account.  We will also ask that you take your product to one of our Official iSPY Agents to have the product marked with the iSPY logo foot stamp.

13.What do I do if my product is lost or stolen?
You should contact the iSPY SYSTEM immediately, so you can change the status in your account to LOST or STOLEN.  The iSPY SYSTEM Team specialist can also assist with changing the status in your account.  If someone tries to re-sell or has found your product, the check status page will show who the real owner is and that the status has been marked to LOST OR STOLEN.  Once the status is changed in the iSPY database, then contact the police and fill out a police report, as well as call your insurance company. 
The iSPY SYSTEM will also send out an urgent email to participating police, retailers, resorts, competitions and industry organizations.  The info included in the email will assist in the expedited recovery of your product.

14.  What happens if my product is found?
The first thing that will happen is the person who has found your product will contact the iSPY SYSTEM directly, so we can contact you.  Once we have made the initial contact, we will then give you the information so you can arrange pick-up of your product.

15. What happens if I sell my equipment?
Contact the iSPY SYSTEM immediately, so your account can be changed to SOLD.  Attach your iSPY ID Tag to the product for the next owner. This will allow the new owner to activate the product with the iSPY SYSTEM for a nominal fee. 

16. How do I become an Official iSPY Agent?
Contact the iSPY SYSTEM Team at support@ispysystem.com or by phone at 908-875-4765.  The iSPY Tool Box and Display contains all the supplies you need to service your clients.