Datatag - bikes unique eletronic finger print !

[Downhiller]

price 27 euros

http://www.datatag.co.uk/

"Datatag for cycles offers a multi-layer approach to identification that makes life difficult for even professional thieves! The kit is simple to fit and includes both visible and hidden identifiers including a Datatag transponder that gives your bike a unique electronic finger print. Bike theft is well known to be a problem and many owners think that just by registering them on some database that theft will miraculously stop but the truth is that registration without the right identification system just doesn’t work.
The Datatag system offers the premier identifiers combined with probably the most sophisticated database ever devised. Equally importantly Datatag works with the Police to back up the product and provides free scanning equipment, database access on a 24/7 basis as well as technical training. Owners of Datatagged cycles also benefit from reduced premiums from the major insurers. For Cycle security there is only one choice."



http://www.chainreactioncycles.com/Images/Models/Full/9881.jpg

[Kornphlake]

it's a neat idea but around here at least I don't think it would do much good. A bike is too easy to part out for one and they are too easy to transport undetected to a metropolitan area that doesn't have the scanners/detectors. It seems like the database would end up neglected too, how many bikes are reported stolen? How much effort is local law enforcement going to make to enter the report into not only their own database but a supplimental database?

I could see it working for motorcycles but when you've got a battery you can install LoJack, which will provide GPS data. GPS trumps a simple electronic ID chip.

[Pat...]

How about something like lojack with a watch battery? that could go in the frame somewhere and be hard to remove, or notice.

[Kornphlake]

I'm not 100% certain but I think :

A) Low Jack needs 12v, watch batteries don't put out near that much voltage

B) The system actually transmits an active signal, similar to a cell phone, we all know that even the best cell phone batteries go dead in a week or less even without much talking going on, a watch battery doesn't have enough capacity to power such a device for more than a few minutes.

[vitox]

gee i wonder if the cops in nigeria or bolivia or even chile are going to have equipment like that available to track down bike theft.
actually, correction, im sure they wont.