Laminating Systems
Have Questions about Laminating Fargo Systems? We Have Answers!
Why Choose a Fargo System?
Single-sided Fargo ID systems pair our best-selling Fargo simplex printers with all the supplies required to launch your ID card program. Alternatively, you can purchase a Fargo ID card printer as a standalone piece of equipment, but it is important to note that the printer itself does not come with everything you need to print cards.
Buying an ID system greatly simplifies your purchasing process by guaranteeing compatibility across system conpmonents, plus they are more affordable than buying all components individually.
In addition to a card printer, printing ID badges requires a printer ribbon, ID software, blank cards, and a camera for capturing ID photos. Our bundled Fargo systems contain supplies and equipment that seamlessly work together. Plus, you can customize your single-sided Fargo system by changing the type of cards included, adding printer features such as encoding or lamination, upgrading to a more advanced ID camera, and adding extended warranty and/or loaner coverage.
What Supplies Will I Need for my Laminating Fargo System?
To produce laminated ID badges, your laminating Fargo printer requires two special supplies not found in other ID systems: laminate (also called overlaminate) and composite PVC-PET cards.
There are a number of Fargo laminates to choose from: clear, holographic, patch, and full-coverage overlay. If you haven't ordered laminate before, call an ID Professional at ID Wholesaler to determine which option is the best fit for your machine.
Rather than standard 100% PVC cards, you'll need composite PVC-PET cards for your laminating printer. Composite PVC-PET cards are the same size and look the same as standard PVC cards, but they are more durable and resistant to the high heat used in the lamination process. Unlike standard PVC cards, composite PVC cards will not warp under the pressure of intense heat.
What Lamination Options are Available with a Laminating Fargo System?
Clear vs. Holographic
Clear laminate is available in 0.6 or 1.0 mil thicknesses, with the thicker option offering greater durability. Holographic laminate provides security as well as protection by making your cards more difficult to fruadulently duplicate. Holographic laminate is available with standard and custom designs. Both provide the same holographic effect, however standard holographic laminate is available on the open market and therefore doesn't offer the same level of security as a custom holographic laminate.
Patch vs. Overlay
Patch laminate does not cover the full card, but it is thicker and more durable, whereas overlay laminate covers the entire card, but is thinner and less durable than patch laminate.
PolyGuard Laminates for Smart Cards
Fargo PolyGuard laminates are made specifically for magnetic stripe cards and smart chip cards.
Should I Consider Dual-Sided Lamination?
Choose a Fargo ID system that includes a card printer configured for or that can be upgraded to offer dual-sided lamination if you want to protect both sides of your ID cards, or if you want to add holographic images to both card surfaces for extra security.
For dual-sided lamination, look at systems containing the Fargo DTC5500LMX direct-to-card printer or the Fargo HDP5600 retransfer printer.