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Color Ribbons

Buy IDP Color Ribbons

IDP color ribbons are used for printing a combination of full-color images and one-color text or barcodes on dual-sided cards. Find your IDP color ribbon today in one convenient stop, and Save today with our guaranteed lowest prices and FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $100.

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Have Questions about IDP Color Ribbons? We Have Answers!

How Do I Know Which Color Ribbon to Use in My IDP Printer?

There are two ways to find manufacturer-approved IDP color ribbons for your specific printer model.

  1. Use the Printer Supplies Selector at the top of this page. To quickly and easily find color ribbons for your IDP ID card printer, simply select your IDP printer model! It’s a great tool to bookmark for future ordering!
  2. Use the "Refine Your Results" options in the left column to drill down by printer model, ribbon type, and more!

As always, if you have any difficulty finding the IDP color ribbon you need, you can also call an ID Professional at (800) 321-4405 x2.

What is the Difference Between YMCKO and YMCKOK Ribbons?

IDP printers use color ribbons that are sectioned into a number of panels. The panel types vary and can be a little confusing if you’re not aware of the different types. The ribbon panels are represented by letters, most commonly including:

  • Y = Yellow dye sublimation panel
  • M = Magenta dye sublimation panel
  • C = Cyan dye sublimation panel
  • K = Black resin panel for printing crisp text and barcodes
  • O = Overlay panel to protect the cards and delay fading
  • F = Fluorescent panel for adding anti-counterfeit security to cards
  • Uv = Fluorescent panel for printing grayscale text or images that are only visible with a UV light
  • Po = Peel-off panel for use with a retransfer printer to print on mag stripe and signature stripe cards

Two of the most common types of ribbons used in an IDP direct-to-card printer are YMCKO and YMCKOK. What's the difference? IDP YMCKO ribbons print in full color (YMC) and resin black (K) on the front of the card with an overlay (O) to protect the card. If you are using a dual-sided printer, you may print in YMCKO on both sides of the card. IDP YMCKOK ribbons, on the other hand, are designed for use in dual-sided printers. They print in full color and resin black on the front of the card with an overlay, plus have an extra K panel for printing in black on the back of cards.

The ribbon that best suits your needs will depend on your printer model, what you’ll be printing on your cards, and how your cards will be used. If you need assistance finding the right IDP color ribbon, call an ID Professional at (800) 321-4405.

YMCKO vs. YMCKOK Card Samples

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