Got Data? Barcodes Still Make "Cents"
So you’re faced with daunting task of capturing some data on your corporate ID card. Immediately you
go into panic mode as questions flood your brain:
- Who can I call to help me?
- What equipment do I need?
- Which types of supplies should I buy?
- Where do I start?
First things first: you can always call ID Wholesaler for help! From your printer to your ID cards to your card technology choice (and everything in between), we're here to help.
Generally speaking – especially when it’s a new customer or someone who is completely new to ID card printing – I start with the basics. This includes working with my customer to define what the cards will be used for and how much he or she would like to spend.
There are several card technology options available on the market today, including:
Contact & Contactless Cards – Highest Cost
With the many options available, it stands to reason that the more secure the card solution is, the more expensive it will be. As is the case with contact and contactless cards. However, it’s always important to remember that cards in this category will offer more sophisticated features like increased memory and data flexibility.
Magnetic Stripe Cards – Medium Cost
We all have a credit card or a gift card or a membership card with a magnetic stripe on the back. When it’s used as a corporate ID card, you will also have to purchase an encoder and a reader in order for the data on the cards to be “read” or processed. This is especially important when working with a tight budget – every single penny counts.
Barcodes – Lowest Cost
Finally, we have barcodes. These are the least expensive and the least secure of them all. If you’re only looking to embed an employee’s ID number for time and attendance or to use it with lunchroom software, barcodes genuinely offer the very best solution. There really is no better or more cost-effective option. Sure, you’ll still have to buy a barcode reader, but the card design software allows you to choose which barcode works best for you – 1D, 2D, or even QR codes – based on your application.
| For a more in-depth analysis of your needs, feel free to contact one of our ID Professionals at (800) 321-4405 or chat now. They’ll help you determine which card design software and barcode readers are required based on your specific situation. |
