ID Card Printing Blog
December 25 2011 |
The Usefulness of Customer Loyalty Cards
For most business, having a customer come in once simply isn’t enough. Any business savvy person will tell you that the key to running a successful company is in the amount of customers you have alone, but in the willingness of those customers to come back to you time after time and not go to your competitors for the same, or similar, products. But how do you acquire an efficient network of loyal customers? Unless they are given some sort of incentive, most costumers won’t give a second thought before going to a different company if it’s more convenient for them. Customer loyalty cards are a great way to give your company the extra edge that will drive clients away from the doors of your competition in favor of doing business with you. Best of all, you can design and print these cards right from your office. Here are just some key benefits to take into consideration when deciding if taking the initiative to print customer loyalty cards will help your business:
- First time buyers will be more inclined to return to you after their initial purchase- Giving your clients a discount or establishing a rewards system makes it more financially logical for your customers to return to you.
- Get customers to remember you- Many customers tend to forget contact information for a business they seldom work with or have visited just once. A customer loyalty card with your businesses’ contact information can double as a more durable business card.
- Returning customers will be encouraged to spend more than they normally would- If your company offers a rewards system through the use of loyalty cards, customers will be inclined to spend more with the goal of attaining those rewards.
- Improve your inventory- customer loyalty cards can give you a better sense of what products your customers are buying. This provides you with useful data when it comes to deciding which product you need to stock up on more and which to cut back on.
If you already own an ID badge printer, you don’t even have to purchase any additional supplies. ID badge printers, like the HDP5000 from Fargo, can be used to printer your very own customer loyalty badges right from your office! If you believe your business would benefit from customer loyalty cards, or simply want to find out more about how to begin implementing a customer loyalty card program for your business, give us a call at 800-897-7024.
December 18 2011 |
What is ID Card Software?
ID card software is any software that provides secure identification, barcode and asset tracking and visitor management. The following post gives a brief overview of each of the basic elements central to an ID card software program.
Secure Identification
Secure identification is the bread and butter of ID card software and is the process by which professional-looking and good quality ID cards are created. These cards, which are created for and issued to a building visitor upon entrance, are typically printed on the spot and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as corporate and student ID cards, government credentials and driver’s licenses. Identification badges usually display the picture of the individual on the front and function either through a barcode printed on the front or back of the card, through a magnetic strip embedded alongside the back of the card (as with a credit card), or through biometrics, which is the recording of biological characteristics such as fingerprints or DNA.
Barcode and Asset Tracking
An asset is defined as any permanent piece of equipment or item used by a business on a regular and fixed basis. Assets can generally be split into two categories: tangible and non-tangible. Thus, computers, phones, desks, hardware, computer files and data are all considered assets and a company must be able to track them on a regular basis.
Asset tracking is integrally related to asset protection, or
retail loss prevention, which is an investigative method into the occurrence of
workplace theft. According to the 2006 National Retail Security Survey, company
losses and their percentages are split into 5 main categories: 46.8% from employee theft, 31.6% from
shoplifting, 14.4% from administrative error, 3.75% from vendor error, and 2.86%
from unknown error. While there is no way to determine how much revenue goes unaccounted
for yearly through retail loss, failure to properly track business assets can
lead to very high costs for the company, estimated at billions of dollars a
year.
Some of the main problems associated with asset tracking are
the amount of time needed to locate missing items, repurchasing lost items and the
complexity involved with substantiating asset inventories, all of which
contribute to revenue loss. Jolly, an asset tracking software provider, allows a company to track
their assets by connecting to existing databases such as MS Access, MS SQL
Server, MySQL, Excel spreadsheets, CSV or text files.
Visitor Management
Visitor management refers to the system used to track public building traffic by recording the identity, location and number of people entering and exiting the site on a daily basis. Visitor management software typically focuses on three basic elements: visitor registration, badge printing and creating reports from collected data.
After the Oklahoma Federal Building was bombed by Timothy
McVeigh in 1995, which took 168 lives, injured more than 680 people and cost approximately
$652 million in damages, a report later determined that he carried out preliminary
walkthroughs of the building’s lobby. Investigative access to a corporation’s
visitor management data reports, which record an individual’s whereabouts and visitor
frequency, are instrumental in preventing similar events.
Usage of a typical visitor management software system
requires that a person entering the building register for a company-issued
identification badge, usually printed on the spot, which he swipes every time
enters or exits the building. The badge is also used to gain access to
different parts of the building, in some cases including elevators. At the end
of a given period the information amassed regarding the traffic of all building
visitors is created into a report and stored.
ID Card Software Categories
Different vendors divide their software options in variant ways. For example, Asure ID divides its software features into 4 different software packages, while Jolly categorizes them as Standard Edition Software and Premier Edition Software.
November 22 2011 |
How to Use the Evolis ID Card Printer Series for your ID Badge Needs
Evolis is a printer manufacturer that makes printers used in printing ID badges of different types. Some of the different types of cards you can print are standard ID cards, driver’s licenses, bank cards and access badges and the like. A badge typically holds information about its owner, such as name, a photograph and perhaps statistical information such as height, weight and hair color, etc. The purpose of an ID badge is to identify the individual.
PVC Cards
The types of cards used are the standard type of cards used by most printer manufacturers. These cards are known as PVC (yes, the same PVC used for piping), but are more commonly known as plastic cards. Since they are smooth to the touch, PVC Cards require printing via a method known as thermal transfer printing, which uses a printer part known as a ribbon to apply either a colored or monochrome layer. Contrast this with your standard inkjet printers, which place the ink directly on the page. Thermal printing is necessary since the heating process causes the ink to remain glued to the surface, which is not an issue with printing on paper.
When printing in color, the heat turns the ink layer into gas that reverts to its original state on the card’s surface, a process known as sublimation, or dye sublimation. Evolis printers can print in both monochrome and color.
Bar Code Application
Bar codes are perhaps the most basic feature of plastic cards and are used in many places, such as in stores that sell merchandise branded with bar codes. It is therefore not limited only to cards, but to a variety of plastic surfaces that require bar code identification. A bar code works by creating highly distinct black and white areas that are read by a photosensitive electronic scanner. When the card is passed under the light emitted from the scanner, the scanner detects which light is absorbed by the black areas and which is reflected by the white areas, a pattern which registers as a product or item. We’ve all been in line at the grocery store only to find that the cashier has to scan our item over and over again while people behind us are getting impatient. A scanner has a hard time reading a bar code when the lines are not printed sharply or evenly.
Rewritable Printing
Rewritable printing is to printers what rewritable CD’s are to CD burners. Any images printed on a rewritable card can be erased by being exposed to heat (230-320° F or 110-160° C). A typical PVC card can go through this process usually up to 500 times.
Lamination
Printing lamination is similar to the standard form of printing, whereby a material such as paper is covered in a protective plastic sheath. In printing, specifically in ID card printing, lamination is used in order protect card images from destruction, either accidental or deliberate. Such damage renders a card used for identification useless, or worst, if a card with an unrecognizable image is lost and found by somebody else, it can lead to identity theft. Evolis offers cards of this type in order to prevent against the types of forgery associated with damaged cards.
Holograms
It is also possible to apply holographic images to PVC cards. Cards with images are typically used by institutions that seek to avoid counterfeiting and forgery, such as banks or facilities that require an age limit for access. Holographic images cannot be duplicated with a standard Xerox machine, scanner or standard inkjet printer, which is why certain organizations opt to use them.
Magnetic Encoding
Magnetic encoding is a black stripe placed on the back of a card, usually bank cards. The particles in the magnetic encoding stripe hold binary information (1’s and 0’s) that a scanner, or reader, encodes when swiped. Evolis makes magnetic encoders that are able to create the magnetic stripes used by financial institutions.
Contact Cards or Smart Cards
Contact cards, also known as Smart Cards, are plastic cards fitted in an internal chip that can hold more than 100 times the amount of data that a magnetic stripe can hold. They are swiped much like a magnetic encoding card and also rewritable.
Contactless Cards
A contactless card is a card that holds information read through the transfer of microwave frequencies from a chip to the laminated plastic card. This mechanization means that the card doesn’t need to be swiped, but just passed nearby the scanning device (between 3-10 cm) and allows for quicker and more efficient access. Contactless cards can be used for a variety of applications, depending on the card model, and is common for access security, data storage and encryption.
November 13 2011 |
One Stop Solution for ID Card-printing Needs
Whether you’re looking for PVC cards, Contact or Contactless, Proximity or Wiegand Cards, ID Security Online is your one-stop solution for ID card printing needs. We also carry pre-printed cards, ideal for clients who require the same information printed on many cards and our ID cards come in both 10 and 30 millimeters and include Mag Stripe Composite and Adhesive Back options.
A special section of our site is designated solely for Access Control and security needs. Here you can browse through a range of technology cards designed for achieving increased building security measures. Some of the variant uses for these cards typically include, but are not limited to driver’s licenses, official government identification, access passes and company security used for tracking human movement throughout the building.
We as well partner with several of the best-known brand name ID card printer manufacturers in the industry: Datacard, Fargo, Zebra, Persona, Evolis, Magicard and Nisca, all of which include single-sided and dual-sided models as well as lamination card printers. laminating card printers apply a holographic cover that makes counterfeiting more difficult to achieve and is seen as an increased security measure. Lamination also comes with the option of a standard clear cover, which is used for higher durability and protection against the elements. Our printers can be personalized and configured for specific printing needs, such as monochrome or color and between standard and holographic prints.
We also carry brand name ID card software, such as Asure and eMedia, compliant with single and dual-sided prints and multi-card printing, as well highly configurable so that you can customize your print settings. Easy to setup and simple to operate, our reliable printers will give you excellent results, meet your individual ID card needs and produce high-quality ID cards time after time.
Finally, in the event that you need to replace or purchase more parts, we carry card printer supplies for all of our manufacturers, including accessories, ribbons, modules, upgrade kits and lamination supplies.
Call us today at (800)-897-7024 and let one of our ID printing specialists help you decide if pre-printed cards are the right option for your company.
November 06 2011 |
Fargo DTC4000 Information and Specifications
Fargo’s line of single and dual-sided card printers/encoders are each designed with a specific set of tasks in mind. HID/Fargo designed this printer specifically for large organizations with more stringent security and volume requirements than were available with the DTC1000 printer. But the goal was not to cloud intuitive use, compatibility and flexibility with indecipherable technological advance and complexity, but rather to find a way where both ends could be met in one easy-to-use and advanced printer/encoder. And like other Fargo models, the DTC4000 represents an advanced generation of high quality specialization printers that efficiently carries out its tasks. Today’s consumer demands a high level of compatibility and so the DTC4000 serves on these expectations as a highly intuitive product requiring very little operational training. HID/Fargo sought to design a printer as simple as it was sophisticated. The DTC4000 is field upgradable, small and light, contains encoding options, is compatible with professional environments, has advanced security and encoding options.
Field Upgradability and Configurable Settings
The DTC4000 is field upgradeable and customizable in accordance with a breadth of complex projects and uses. Using the field upgradability feature you can toggle between single and dual-sided printing and adding magnetic stripe, HID proximity, iClass contactless and/or contact chip encoding functionality. It is also Ethernet compatible, which was optional with the DTC400e, DTC550, Persona C30e (now discontinued) and as a standard accessory with the DTC5000. Configuring the printer is very easy and completed via the standard window and tab combination. Once your printer is installed, you can simply open the Configuration Tab and select whether you want the printer set on Dual-Sided, Magnetic Encoder, Dual-input Card Hopper, or Input/Output Card Hopper, which, by the way, is a same-side card hopper. These advanced flexibility options mean that this model can serve a wide variety of industries and job descriptions, such as hospitals, schools, businesses, banks and legal and administrative institutions, not to mention the high tech industry.
Professional Compatibility
Its physical design is also ideally-oriented for office and institutional use, with dimensions making it compatible with most professional environments. The weight and dimensional specs of the single-sided printer are 8 pounds at 9.8 inches high, 17.6 inches wide and 9.2 inches deep, and the specs of the dual-sided printer are 10 pounds at 9.8 inches high, 18.2 inches wide and 9.2 inches deep, making it not much larger than a standard shoebox. At the same time, it comes with an optional same-side input/output card hopper accessory, which means that the DTC4000 can be inconspicuously placed in most places in your office.
Location
As long we’re discussing location, it is important to consider where placing your printer as there are some guidelines to consider. Like with other printers and most electrical machines, the printer should be placed in a location with sufficient air circulation, which prevents internal heat build-up. Keep in mind that although the printer is small, you should allow for enough room for people to walk in front of it when its covers have been opened. You should also avoid installing the printer in areas near heat sources such as air ducts or in front of a window where the printer will be exposed to direct sunlight. Also avoid placing it in areas of high dust accumulation or mechanical vibration. If the printer is brought directly from a cold to a warm, or a dry to a moist location, there may occur a build-up of moisture condensation, which can negatively affect the print quality. In such a case, unplug the printer and leave it in a dry room for several hours, which will cause the moisture to evaporate.
Security Options
The DTC4000 comes with a sophisticated security encoding system that includes password protection to allow only select and approved administrators to carry out print jobs and encode security badges and cards. It also comes with an Ultraviolet layer for an increased security level regarding the physical card once printed. This fluorescent panel works by producing grayscale holographic text and images that are only displayed when the card is placed under UV light and are excellent fraud-battling measures. This is part of what makes this printer appropriate for banks, other financial and governmental institutions. The DTC4000 can also be password protected at the printer so only approved operators can print and encode plastic security cards and badges.
Ribbons
A feature available only with the DTC4000 is the option to select the fluorescent panel ribbon. Mentioned briefly in the previous paragraph, the The YMCFKO (yellow, magenta, cyan, fluorescing, resin black)/YMCFKOK Ribbon is an cost-effective method to customize the security measures of your photo identification cards. You are even able to create a custom image to appear as a holograph on your cards.
The design of Fargo card printers necessitates highly specific supplies, such as ribbons, to function correctly, such as the one-piece disposable ribbon cartridge load system used by both the Fargo DTC1000 and 4000 models. While you are able to use supplies belonging to other printer brands, it is highly recommended to use only Fargo certified supplies, which will prolong the life of your printer and maximize its print quality. Using supplies belonging to other brands as well nullifies your warranty in locations not prohibited by law. Other warnings can be found in the DTC4000 User Guide.
Encoding Options
The encoding options and ISO standards, as discussed previously regarding field upgradability, can be changed easily in the traditional window and tab format, such as when printing a document. Encoding options include a 125 kHz (HID Prox) reader, a 13.56 MHz, compatible with iCLASS®, MIFARE®, ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693, a read/write encoder, in Contact Smart Code Encoder, ISO Magnetic Stripe Encoding and dual high- and low-coercivity. More information is available in DTC4000 User Guide.
October 23 2011 |
Introducing the Evolis Zenius
ID Security Online is proud to announce Evolis’ most recent addition in card printers — the Evolis Zenius. A genius of a product, it is a single-sided plastic card printer that fits snugly in most locations, such as front desks, counter tops, and just about anywhere in your office. The Evolis Zenius also makes itself seen and not heard given that it is a quiet printer, even more ideal for a productive and relaxed working environment.
The Zenius is also an intelligently-designed machine, equipped with an LED control panel guide walks you through the print job process. It also comes with several other useful features and alerts you when the feeder is empty and when it’s time to clean the printer or replace the ribbon. Designed with a 50-card capacity and with the card feeder and output tray both located in the front, it also minimizes the amount of space it takes up.
Replacing the ribbon is as well a virtually effortless process; the Zenius is equipped with a built-in chip that allows it to recognize the ribbon type and automatically adjust configuration settings and uses a line of high quality parts that produce unrivaled graphics.
It can create including thermal transfer monochrome and color-dye sublimation color cards with a resolution of 300 dpi and is compatible with both contact and contactless cards. It can be very conveniently used in a variety of purposes, such as access badges, loyalty cards, student ID’s, transport passes and payment cards. Utilizing features that as-of-now have only been offered by advanced systems, the Evolis Zenius is sure to make your printing experience easy and enjoyable.
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024.
September 27 2011 |
ID Security Online is Proud to Announce the Arrival of Asure ID 7
HID’s already popular ID card printing service just got better. With the arrival of their newest product, Asure ID 7, clients are now able to have a simpler and faster card printing process. The new software includes some great new features and functions that transform the ID card printing process from a tedious task to an exciting lightening fast high quality experience.
Here are just some of the features that Asure ID 7 has to offer:
- Instant notifications of free updates
- New and improved keyboard shortcuts
- Compound field enhancements Asure ID
- Improved filtering
- Additional custom report capability
- A new iDIRECTOR™ wizard to cater to your unique needs such as cashless vending
- iDIRECTOR enhancements for defining custom iCLASS and MIFARE applications
Enjoy these new features in addition to the classic functions available on all Asure ID software products. These editions are designed to accommodate ID card programs of various size and complexity. This has made Asure ID a popular pick with all types of industries.
Some of the classic features include:
- The ability to design your own single or dual sided ID cards with a pre-made template or with your own design Import images from your computer
- Add linear barcodes and/or a magnetic stripe to your ID to create a more secure ID card
- Connect to an internal or Microsoft Access database
- Communicate with both external and internal databases
- Create, save, and export standard and custom reports
- Add 2D barcodes and/or encode smart cards to create a maximum security ID card
- Enable password protection and access privileges for your ID software
As always, ID Security Online provides a range of resources that our clients can utilize in order to make their ID Card software process run smoothly and pleasantly.
If you need help choosing a product feel free to:
- Download a 30-day free trial of Asure ID software to experience the program for yourself.
- Visit our website to read in-depth descriptions Asure ID Solo, Express, Enterprise, and Exchange
- Call (800)897-7024 to speak with one of our highly trained customer service representatives for a more personalized shopping experience
September 20 2011 |
The Different Types of ID Cards
The purpose of this post is to inform the reader of the various types of ID cards that exist out there in the printing world. My hope is to present a brief, but high quality, catalogue of the different ID cards as well as an explanation of what the cards are typically used for. Many of the types of cards explained here in overlap to some degree. For example, one type of card might be a general category of card, while several others are types of that card that belong in that general category.
Proximity Cards
You’ve probably heard this term a whole lot, but don’t know exactly what it is. The term refers to an integrated circuit apparatus used for a variety of basic uses such as security access control and payment systems. The two main types of proximity cards come in the 125 kHz devices or the newer 13.56 MHz variety. These cards are often referred to as RFID cards, or Radio-frequency Identification Cards, but are also known by the term “contactless smartcards.”
Access Control
An Access Control card is designed to grant access to an enclosed area, be it a business office, airport, or government-type organization. Access Control is a general category, and access control cards can take the form of proximity cards and come with the option of displaying a photo of the card holder. Access control cards typically contain magnetic chips that grant the user access.
Clamshell Card
A Clamshell Card is a protective covering used to house a contactless smartcard.
Flexpass Imageable Cards
Flexpass Imageable cards are particularly useful for barcode transactions or those which require magnetic stripes and a dye-sublimation printer can be used to print digital images and graphics onto their surface.
Embeddable Cards
An embeddable card, sometimes also known as embedded cards, is an RFID card embedded with a chip. The card can be used for access control, purchases and cash withdrawal and this type of card has been in use for several years.
Hologram card
An ID card with a built-in hologram, an added security measure from counterfeiting.
iClass Key
The “key” in iClass Key refers to a small contactless smartcard placed in an also-small plastic knob. It serves the same purpose as most access proximity cards as long as the function does not require you to present a photo ID. Some of the plusses of this technology is that it protects your card from the elements and can be easily carried on a key chain or some similar accessory.
iClass Tag
The “tag” in iClass Tag is a contactless smartcard device roughly the size of a coin and is a transponder that you can attach to a non-metallic surface.
ISO/IEC 14443
The international standard that defines ID proximity cards and its communications transmission protocols.
Mifare Card
A patented contactless smart card standard corresponding to ISO 14443.
SDK (Software Development Kit)
An SDK is a software development kit that is used to create applications for software packages and other platforms.
Wiegand Cards
A Wiegand card utilizes embedded ferromagnetic wires, ferromagnetism being the mechanism that causes materials to be permanently magnetized, even after the energy field is removed. These wires are turned away in a strategic fashion as to generate the user’s individual ID number.
Contact
us at IDSecurityOnline today at
(800) 897 7024.
September 15 2011 |
Badge Reels
A badge reel is a simple little gadget, a badge accessory that holds your badge in place with a retractable cord that allows you to latch it onto your clothing. It lets you comfortably walk around your place of work without having to hold onto your name badge or reach into your pocket every second to retrieve it (which shouldn't be a need anyway because most people in your workplace know who you are).
It also can give you a sense of belonging in your workplace given that most badge reels sport their companies name or a customized graphic. Many of them have a white label that features your company logo beneath a clear dome.
September 11 2011 |
Fake IDs are a Real Threat
Fake ID’s are a real problem, as any police force will tell you. This is true as well a number of other institutions, such as convenient stores, who require people to present a valid photo ID before being granted permission to purchase. This is equally important for the professional business atmosphere, which has a lot to gain (and much to lose) from a poorly-set up security structure where many companies require both employees and visitors to present a company-issued ID in order to get beyond the lobby area of a building. A breach of security caused by a counterfeit ID card can lead to individual harm, loss of information and the prevention of identity theft, all of which can then lead to irreparable personal and professional damage.
The good news is that such tragedies can be offset by a fully-functioning security procedure. A fantastic place to start is with high quality and reliable ID cards, such as our range of ID Cards.
What goes into a high quality ID card? A holographic laminate makes it more difficult for would-be counterfeiters to recreate, which is the reason that government-related institutions, such as those who issue drivers licenses, use holographic images. Just imagine how such technology would decrease the amount of counterfeit money produced every year. By utilizing ID software, this technology is available for the security-interested world.
You can also increase your security by employing visitor badges, which expire after a given period of time. An employee’s or visitor’s use of an expiring badge allows you to track his or her time of entry and exit and increase your ID Security.
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024.
August 25 2011 |
How do I Clean my ID Card Printer?
We want your ID printer to run smoothly and effectively for as many years as possible. Buying a new ID card printer is expensive, repairing one can drain your pocket just as much. While most ID card printers come with a warranty, there are certain conditions to that warranty that you have to keep in mind. An ID card printer is just like any other mechanical device; it must be treated with care and regularly maintained. You wouldn’t drive your car for 10 years without taking it to a mechanic, would you? Routine maintenance is just as important with your ID card printer as it is with your car! Both machines have frequently mobile parts that can collect dust, dirt and grime. When an ID card printer is neglected, these foreign agents can cause your ribbons to break and render your ID cards useless. To get the maximum amount of usage from your ID card printer, you have to upkeep it with the same regularity and care that you would with a car or any other mechanical device with constantly moving parts. Here are some tips to help your ID card printer run smoothly and efficiently for many years.
Remove Your Jewelry Before Changing Your ID Card Printer Ribbon
This is very important as jewelry can scratch the printhead or any other inner components of your printer. This type of damage is not covered under the warranty and replacing the components will be solely your responsibility. Make sure to remove all jewelry that might come into contact with the machine (rings, watches, bracelets, etc.) prior to performing any maintenance.
Clean Your ID Card Printer Regularly
All ID card printer models now have card counters that are used to trigger several actions by the operator. If you do not perform the required cleanings, you run the risk of voiding your warranty. We suggest cleaning your ID card printer after every ribbon change
Buy a Cleaning Kit
Cleaning kits are an inexpensive way to maintain your ID card printer. These ID card printer cleaning kits include everything you need for routine upkeep of your machine, reducing the risk of a part breaking. ID Security Online offers a vast array of cleaning kits for most ID card printer models that cost no more than a couple of dollars per cleaning (certainly less expensive than replacing a machine).
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024 to discuss your card printing needs.
August 25 2011 |
Direct-to-Card and Retransfer Card Printers – the Difference
Human beings don’t live forever, and neither do card printers. And the reality is that regardless of the quality (and the price), every card printer has its day. Although a typical card printer comes with a standard warranty of 2 years on parts and labor, there is some variation, as some come with a warranty of 3 years. However, retransfer printers come with a lifetime warranty on parts and labor, including the print head. The reason for this is that retransfer printers utilize a unique printing method that functionally eliminates the need to factor in the cost of a replacement print head.
What’s the difference, you ask, between a direct-to-card printer (DTC) and a retransfer printer? During the DTC printing process the print head comes into repeated contact with rigid cards. Typically-speaking, a company printer can print on the order of thousands of cards per month, gradually wearing down the print head. The retransfer method avoids this deterioration by retransferring the image onto the retransfer film, hence its name, thereby significantly extending its lifespan. What’s more is that print heads cost between approximately $500-$900 and is considered to be a commonly-replaced part in DTC printing. Using a retransfer card printer also often translates into higher return on investment, which means that you can save your company a good deal of heartache and money.
There’s also the question of to replace or not to replace. Many factors can affect this decision, such as the decreased cost of ID card printers and technological improvements that necessitate system upgrades. It’s also noteworthy that a printer evaluation fee, minus the cost for the actual repair, figures in the ballpark of $120 or more. Not exactly a walk in the park itself, though tolerable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a Printer
Finding the optimal card printer for your company can be an easy, and even enjoyable, process. ID Security Online’s experts will listen to your needs and help you find the best printer for your organization or business.
Choosing an ID Software
ID Security Online’s consultation team also helps you determine the best software system for your application, walking you through the installation process and teaching you how to operate it on your own.
Troubleshooting
Our technical support group will help you deal with any printing system issues so you can experience the best possible usage from your card printer.
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024 to discuss your card printing needs.
July 26 2011 |
Evolis Dualys Benefits and Strengths
With the Evolis Dualys ID card printer you will be able to print and encode your ID cards on both sides. The Evolis Dualys card printer is one of the fastest card printers on the market and produces the stunning image quality.
User Friendly
No training needed. This ID card printer is ready to go out of the box. With a convenient clam-shell opening maintenance and loading are greatly sped up. Feed one card at a time or use a card feeder. Configured and ready to go in just a few clicks.
Fast
Dual sided color cards print at a rate of 125 cards per hour. Dual sided monochrome cards print at 350 cards an hour. One sided monochrome cards are printed at the rate of 1,000 cards per hour!
Dual-Sided
From bulk personalization to single card printing this printer prints on both sides of the card in high-resolution color.
For fast dual-sided printing the Evolis Dualys ID card printer can not be beat. It’s one of the fastest ID card printers available. You can be up and running in no time with it’s user friendly features.
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024 to reorder supplies for your Evolis printer or to discuss your card printing needs.
July 14 2011 |
The Mag Upgrade for your HDP5000 Printer/Encoder
So its time to upgrade your HDP 5000 and add the magnetic encoder! Its actually simple to do and here are the steps:
- Disconnect the power
- Open the front cover
- Remove the front screw.
- Remove the small plastic cover in the upper left hand corner.
- Insert the Mag module.
- Re-Install the small cover and screw and close the cover.
- Replace the power and refresh the system!
We also created a How-To video for the HDP5000 Mag Upgrade.
The Printer Wiz
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June 16 2011 |
Fargo DTC4500 Card Industries and Applications
With its amazing set of features the Fargo DTC4500 ID card printer will fit in at multiple applications. You can be sure with it’s ability to grow as you grow the Fargo DTC4500 ID card printer will still be a great fit for you years down the road. The Fargo DTC4500 is at home in a variety of applications including these:
- Membership cards
- Customer loyalty cards
- Student IDs
- Library cards
- Mass transit cards
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024 to reorder supplies for your Fargo printer or to discuss your card printing needs.
May 30 2011 |
Evolis High Quality Printers
If you manage a health club, sports club, library, or an association you owe it to yourself to provide a membership card. A leisure card identifies members, thanks to graphic personalization. It can also be used for controlling access to various facilities according to a user profile that can be encoded on a chip, a magnetic stripe or bar code.
Whether you are a sports club or a cultural association, all your members will identify themselves in a snap thanks to a card that spells sheer professional quality.
IDSecurityOnline carries a full line of Evolis membership card printers and supplies.
Every day, the Evolis community of users leverage products designed with quality in mind. All card printers are engineered to provide:
- Ease of use
- Sturdiness
- Reliability
- Speed in operation
- Flexibility
Contact us at IDSecurityOnline today at (800) 897 7024 to reorder supplies for your Evolis printer or to discuss your card printing needs.
March 22 2011 |
Our Clients
Who do we work with at ID Security Online?
ID Security Online has a lot of clients from Fortune 500 companies, to Gucci, to The Mets, to The New York Police Department. We like to help our clients grow as we grow in kind of a symbiotic relationship. One of those clients we think is really cool and growing quickly is Fashion GPS. We worked with Fashion GPS at the Mercedes Benz New York Fashion show in January as they needed someone to help with their Event GPS services.
ID Security Online asked Fashion GPS to describe themselves in a nutshell. In their own words Events GPS “allows editors, photographers, stylists and TV crews to RSVP to multiple events at once on a single website.” If you would like to know more about Fashion GPS and their upcoming projects please check them out at: http://fashiongps.com/
ID Printer Wiz
www.idsecurityonline.com
February 24 2011 |
Planning to buy an ID card printer?
If you are planning to buy an ID card printer for your company, you will be surprised at the vast array of choices available in the market today. If you are not an ID card printing expert, your head will spin with the number of brands and types that you have to browse through before you can find the perfect choice. But if you equip yourself with sufficient knowledge about buying an ID card printer before you go out to shop for one in the market, it would be easier for you to narrow down your options and make an informed decision. Here are some of the things that you need to think about.
Color or Monochrome
In terms of color, there are two kind of ID card printer. One can print full color while the other can only print in monochrome. The advantage of the former is that it produces vibrant images and attractive designs. However, monochrome is quicker and more cost effective. It only takes about 5 seconds per each card and since you’ll only be using a single panel print, the cost is much lower than full color printing. Your choice between the two primarily depends on the nature of your company, budget, and preference. For example, if your company is a web/graphic design or animation company, it makes sense to invest on a full color card printer since the ID should be a reflection of what a company does.
Single or Dual Side Printing
Another consideration you have to make is whether you are going to print on the front side or on both sides. As the name implies, the single type printer will print only on the front side of the card. If you are definite that the IDs to be printed for your company will only require print on the front side, this can be the ideal option for you. The dual sided printer, meanwhile, has the advantage of printing on both sides of the ID. Obviously, this one is more expensive than the single side printer. Aside from the more expensive upfront cost, the dual sided ribbon used for this kind of printer is also pricier.
Quantity of Cards
You should also ask yourself how many ID cards you plan to be printed each year. If you are a small business, you would only need a few cards a month. But for a larger company, you need to invest on specialized printers that feature high capacity printing of cards. Printer that can accommodate a bigger quantity is more expensive but the investment is worth it.
Printer Brand
When it comes to brand, there is a wide variety of names on card printer manufacturers that you will get to know about when you go out into the market. Some of the well-known brands include Fargo, Zebra, Evolis, DataCard, and Magicard
ID Software
Aside from the printer itself, you should also consider planning your purchase if you intend to buy ID card software. This way, you can be sure that you will be able to make the right buying decision. Entry level ID card software is inexpensive but limited in its capabilities, for instance some software limits the number of data fields per card design. Other software will only allow a limited amount of data records, be aware you may have to up-grade to the next level at additional cost soon after your purchase.
If you plan to “network” the software and place it on multiple computers you will have to purchase a higher level of the software plus additional “site licenses” for each additional user.
The bottom line is to do your homework but do not hesitate to reach out to an expert in the field, most manufacturers will recommend a “partner” in your area that should ask the appropriate questions I listed above and guide you to the correct choices.
February 24 2010 |
Badge Clips
With today's security conscious society one of the most common security measures taken in the workplace is the ID Badge. One cannot usually enter their place of work without showing their company ID badge to security. Some badges are even required to open doors and get past security gates. The constant need to have a security badge on the worker at all times can be inconvenient, one little tool that can make this effort easier is the humble badge clip.
Having a badge clip can make carrying a security badge easy and convenient. There are many types of badge clips available to meet company security standards and still have easy access to the badge while maintaining a sense of style.
A common badge clip is just a simple clip. You can thread it through a hole punched in your badge and then clip it onto your shirt, jacket, backpack, lunch bag, or whatever else is convenient for you. Just make sure it meets your company's standards for displaying your badge.
Another common use of a badge clip is to attach your badge to a lanyard. There are neck lanyards and wrist lanyards, although the neck lanyard is the most popular. This way your badge is always visible and available whenever you need it. Lanyards come in many styles and colors from simple plain colors such as red and blue to printed tiger stripe or your company logo prints.
Some lanyards are adjustable and some have a breakaway safety mechanism. Some also feature adjustable sliders and safety buckles. Another great way to carry your badge with you is with a retractable badge reel. What makes these so unique is that you can have your badge safely attached to your belt or jacket, but you can pull it to trigger a key card for locked security doors, that require a scan of an ID badge for entry. Once your scan is complete you just let go and the badge safely retracts to its original carrying position.
No matter how you attach you badge the badge clip is the main tool for easy badge accessibility and there are many types of clips to choose from, including simple badge clips and straps to magnetic badge clips, to bulldog and alligator clips. The important thing is that your workplace is secure while still being convenient for workers to access.
February 23 2010 |
Badge Lanyards
While many people may a choose badge clip, there are situations in some jobs where badge clips may not work out as well as you may want. Or maybe you are like me, and simply prefer the feeling of badge lanyard as opposed to a badge clip. Whatever your reason for wanting one, these badge lanyards are some of the finest that you will be able to find.
Why choose a badge lanyard over having a simple clip? I have worn clips quite often, and while I do not dislike them, there are a few things that I find better about lanyards than clips. First off, potentially the biggest one, is that I have a habit of losing things. During the hectic work day, I would often lose my badge while doing something important. The problem with the clip is that, I never realized when I lost it! While I have never lost my badge while wearing it on my lanyard, it would be very easy to notice when you have lost it. Perhaps even more important than this (for those of you who do not lose as many things as I do!) is the fact that lanyards are much easier to deal with than a clip. Just slip it on and forget about it!
There are many kinds of cheap lanyards out there, but some may come off easily, even when you do not want them to, causing you to lose your badge. Having a badge lanyard like that does you no good whatsoever -- you might as well not have one in those cases! But this type of badge lanyard is definitely one of the better ones. I have never had a problem with this type of badge lanyard slipping off when I did not want it to. This helps to ensure that I can spend more time worrying about my work responsibilities, as opposed to worrying about where I lost my badge!
All in all, I would rank these lanyards are being some of the best that I have ever seen. Whether you have a habit of losing things like me, need a convenient way of holding onto your badge, or whatever your reason, these lanyards are definitely the way to go. They easily earn five stars in my personal ranking book. I am sure that they will in yours, too, if you give them a try.
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