SNAGG is a Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) applications integrator, focused on musical instrument and valuable asset registry, theft deterrence, product verification, asset recovery, and supply chain integration.

SNAGG works closely with law enforcement agencies nationwide to determine which RFID approaches and systems are most effective in protecting physical assets from theft and fraudulent reproduction.

SNAGG currently targets its services to the musical instrument manufacturing and distribution sectors. Currently, SNAGG maintains the most complete worldwide database of registered musical instruments for identification and recovery. However, SNAGG also serves other valuable asset sectors such as antique furniture, art, ecclesiastical assets, and high-end sports equipment (snowboard, etc.) sectors.

SNAGG maintains the technical infrastructure necessary to support and maintain registration and retrieval databases for all registered musical instruments and other assets.

SNAGG also carries out cooperative RFID-based technology tests with major municipal law enforcement agencies and third-party applications providers.

What is the SNAGG Microchip?
The SNAGG® Microchip is an RFID (radio frequency identification device) microchip; it emits a unique alphanumeric code number when scanned.

The SNAGG chip is buried inside the musical instrument or other valuable asset,  and is impossible to remove without destroying the instrument (or asset). SNAGG's unique embedded technology this creates both a substantial disincentive to thieves, as well as a future-proof means of insuring that the provenance (ownership) of an asset is protected.

SNAGG Microchips are designed to fit any musical instrument or valuable asset form factor; they require no power source, and have an estimated shelf life of 80+ years. SNAGG microchips are functional between 25° Fahrenheit and 125° Fahrenheit, and are not adversely affected by sealants or epoxies used to enclose them in the body of musical instruments and other valuable assets.

For more information about RFID technology go to http://www.epcglobalinc.org/ and http://www.rfidjournal.com/article/articleview/1337/1/129/ 

Will the microchip affect the sound or playability of my instrument, or the appearance of my valuable asset?
No. Not even in the most sensitive acoustic instruments - e.g. violins. Also, SNAGG Microchips are embedded within valuable assets in a non-destructive way.

Does the chip require power or batteries?

No, the SNAGG Microchip is active only when scanned, and is otherwise inactive.

How much will it cost me to install the chip?

Many musical instruments and other valuable assets already have SNAGG Microchips embedded. Those instruments can be registered for free at the SNAGG website.

For those musical instrument owners who wish to retrofit their musical instrument with a SNAGG Microchip, there is a charge for the retrofit kit. Please go to the SNAGG store for more information on pricing. In addition to the price of the retrofit kit, SNAGG assumes that installation by a retrofitter will average about $30 for labor, unless the musical instrument or asset owner feels competent enough to install the chip with out the help of a technician.

Is SNAGG a traceable or GPS type system like LoJack?
No. SNAGG uses the time proven technology of unalterable code technology that has been responsible for the return of thousands of valuable assets in the past few years.

Why do I need SNAGG Microchip when I have a manufacturer’s serial number on my instrument?
Today's recovery rate is at about 2% for stolen instruments and other valuable assets. If you are among the few percent of owners who know your musical instrument serial number, you would still need to let every 2nd Hand Dealer, Pawnshop and Law Enforcement Agency know of your loss. Most law enforcement systems cover a small geographical region. The SNAGG system overcomes this constraint by immediately informing property and recovery investigators that your musical instrument or other asset is lost or stolen. If your musical instrument or other valuable asset is found, it can be positively identified as yours because every SNAGG serial number is unique, and embedded inside your asset. SNAGG uses the power of the Internet, and embedded RFID technology to enable more efficient recovery of lost or stolen assets.

What happens if I move or sell my instrument?
As a SNAGG owner, you may transfer ownership and/or update your contact information on the SNAGG website.

Does SNAGG register music instruments and other assets in college and school districts?
Yes. Theft of musical instrument and other assets assets is very high in all educational institutions. SNAGG provides volume discounts for large institutional collections in schools, museums, etc.