Laminate is a clear layer of film that is applied to the top of a printed card during the regular printing process in a laminating Entrust Datacard printer. While all laminate offers added card durability and fade resistance, there are some differences to consider when deciding which one is best for your use:
Laminate thickness varies from less than 0.25 mil to 1.0 mil, depending on the type. The thicker the laminate, the more protected and durable your cards will be.
Laminate coverage varies by type. Some types of laminates cover the entire surface of your cards while others are "patch" style. Patch laminates leave a small non-laminated border around the outer edge of your cards.
Clear laminate is simply a clear film that provides added durability to your cards.
Holographic laminate includes an embedded holographic design. In addition to providing card durability, holographic laminate makes your cards more distinct and difficult to counterfeit. Holographic laminates come in a variety of standard designs, as well as custom designs for the highest level of card security.
Entrust Datacard Topcoat vs. DuraGard Laminate
Entrust Datacard Topcoat is continuous laminate which covers the entire surface of your cards and is the thinnest laminate option. Entrust Datacard Topcoat Laminate is available in clear or holographic, featuring embedded holographic designs that protect cards from tampering and counterfeiting.
Entrust Datacard DuraGard Laminate is a patch-style laminate that leaves a small non-laminated border around the edge of the card. DuraGard Lamination is available in 0.5 mil, 0.6 mil, or 1.0 mil thickness, and in either clear or with embedded holographic designs. DuraGard is available in styles to fit most any card, including:
Standard Full Patch covers the surface of the card and may be used on one or both sides of your cards.
Smart Chip Cut-out is designed for smart cards that need the protection of lamination with a cut-out for the smart chip. The smart chip would not be able to be read if it was laminated.
Half-Patch is designed for use with magnetic stripe cards. It only covers half of the card, leaving the mag stripe exposed.
Entrust Datacard Laminate Options
| |
Topcoat |
DuraGard |
| Thickness |
< 0.25 mil |
0.5, 0.6, or 1.0 mil |
| Style |
Full-card coverage |
Patch coverage |
| Designs |
Clear or Holographic |
Clear or Holographic |
| Card Coverage |
Covers the entire card surface |
Leaves a small non-laminated border |
| Other Options |
|
Full-card, smart chip cut-out, half-card for use with mag stripe cards |
