Choosing Your ID Card Printers
The major components in any ID Card System, ID Card Printers are
many and varied. An ID card printer can perform many functions
while printing an ID Card, and this is what makes them so
useful. For example, while printing an image, an ID Card Printer
could encode a magnetic stripe, a proximity card, or a smart
card.
The printer comes with software that manages the data that is
printed or encoded on each card. The software handles all the
functions and provides the printer with the necessary tools to
perform all its functions at once.
Before deciding which printer is right for your needs, consider
what capabilities you want the printer to perform. You have to
think about both the physical and technological properties of
the printer and decide accordingly. As a rule, heavier ID card
printers with a larger footprint have more abilities and are
more durable. Lighter printers are usually better for
less-intensive uses, and may have fewer capabilities, though
this isn't always the case.
More properties you should take into consideration when
choosing a printer are the following:
Do you want a single or double-sided card?
A single sided ID card is excellent for simpler uses, like a
student or school employee ID card. A double-sided ID card can
add more security to your company and can be better for a larger
company or corporation that wants enhanced security.
Do you require color images or monochromatic images?
You should decide if you want a multi-colored image on your
card or a simple monochromatic (one color) image.
Is encoding like magnetic stripes, proximity cards, or smart
cards required?
Institutions like Government buildings, schools, banks, and
hospitals all benefit from the quickness and hassle-free
efficiency of proximity cards, contactless smart cards, and
magnetic stripes. Contactless smart cards and proximity cards
use Radio Frequency technology that allows for higher security,
greater efficiency, and easier use (no swiping involved).
Do you want other security features, like holograms?
Besides basic encoding, there are also more complex forms of
security for ID cards like holographic cards. A holographic card
is created by transferring holographic over-laminates onto
cards. This minimizes the risk of the printed image being
altered and forged. Make sure you request a custom holograph if
you go this route, as the ones you buy online can be bought by
many others, including counterfeiters.
These are some of the most basic questions you should answer
before purchasing an ID card printer. Check with your provider
if you have other questions and make sure you ask any questions
you have. You're investing in the security and organization of
your company or facility, and having the right components can
make all the difference in the type of Photo ID card you end up
with.
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