Fargo Ribbon and Laminate RFID Tag Update

HID Global has upgraded the electronic communication technology used in the Fargo ID card printer ribbon or laminate you have used.

What does this mean for you? Your printer may require a firmware update to ensure that your printer’s consumables communicate with your printer and function properly.

Need help? Just ask. (800) 321-4405 or Chat now

How Do I Update My Printer’s Firmware?

There are two simple ways to update the firmware!

1. Visit HID Global and download and install the latest firmware and driver updates.

– OR –

2. Download the FARGO Workbench 3 Utility and use its “Update Manager” to download and install the latest firmware and driver updates from HID Global. A guide is available to help use the Workbench to update printer firmware.

Fargo Consumables Technology Upgrade FAQs

Why is Fargo changing the technology used by their ribbons?

Fargo is upgrading to use a newer, more advanced RFID technology.

Which Fargo printers are affected by this update?

  • Persona C30/C30e
  • DTC300
  • DTC400/DTC400e
  • DTC550
  • HDP5000
  • DTC4500

What happens if I try to use a Fargo ribbon or laminate with the new RFID technology in a printer without updating my firmware?

If your printer was manufactured before 2010 it may not communicate correctly with the new RFID tag and you will receive an error message. You will be required to update the printer and/or laminator firmware to add support for the new technology.

What if I upgrade to the new firmware but have a ribbon or laminate with the old RFID technology?

Your printer will work the same as it did before the firmware was upgraded.

How can I tell if my consumable includes an RFID tag with the new technology?

See the tag color reference chart at the right.

Go to HID's Drivers and Downloads Page

Fargo RFID Tag Color Reference Chart

Affected Printer or Laminator Consumables RFID Location Old RFID Color New RFID Tag Color
DTC300, C30, C30e, M30, M30e Ribbons Not visible Not visible Not visible
DTC400 Ribbons Not visible Not visible Not visible
DTC550 and DTC550-LC Ribbons Transparent, white or green Red
HDP5000 Ribbons Transparent, white or green Red
DTC4500 and HDP5000 Laminates Transparent, white or green Red
Have a Question?
Call Us — (800) 321-4405