When to Buy an ID Card Printer
If you're thinking about improving the level of security in your organization, the top-of-mind question you're more than likely asking yourself is "When is the right time to get a photo ID printer or system?"
The answer to this question is actually pretty simple. The best time to buy an ID printer or system is several weeks ahead of your deadline to avoid any last-minute surprises or delays.
The first step is to make sure you have the right ID system and card printer for your unique application. There are a lot of different card printers on the market, and if you're not sure which one to choose, you'll want to ask yourself a few easy, straightforward questions:
- Will you be using cards for visual ID or for both visual ID and building access?
If your IDs will serve as visual ID only, you'll probably use standard blank PVC (plastic) cards without embedded technology. All direct-to-card printers can print onto PVC card stock, in color as well as black and white.If your cards will also be used for access control, chances are they will have a technology component on the inside. For these types of cards, retransfer printers are highly recommended. Cards containing fragile internal circuits (chips, antenna, etc.) can be damaged by the heat from direct-to-card printers. Retransfer printers, on the other hand, print photos and information onto a clear film that's fused to the surface of cards.
- Do you plan on storing data on your cards?
Encoded cards are most often used to store information that will be used at a later time (e.g., checking books out of a library or checking in at a health club). Whether your card program utilizes barcodes, magnetic stripes, or smart card technology, your printer and ID card software will need encoding capabilities.
- Is card durability or longevity a factor?
If it is, consider laminating your cards with a laminating ID card printer. During the printing process, cards are laminated with a thin layer which protects both the image on the card as well as the information printed on the card. If you swipe your ID cards, lamination is a great option to prolong the use of the card. You can protect your cards even further by incorporating a badge holder into your card program.
- How will your ID card program be set up?
If you'll only be using a single computer to create your cards, standard USB connectivity will be sufficient. However, if you need to network your printer or system, you'll need ID card design software that can be networked. In addition,
your printer will need Ethernet connectivity.
Once you determine the right ID card printer or printer system, a good next step is choosing a
photo ID camera. The Credential Cam is designed for taking ID photos and working with your software. The Credential Cam Pro is an upgrade that has a flash and produces a higher resolution photo. The Canon Rebel Camera gives you the mobility to take photos anywhere and includes software that automatically crops your photos. The VALCam unit offers super-high resolution photos and comes with its own software development kit.
Whichever camera you decide to use, you'll want to ensure you plan ahead for where you are going to take the photos. Consider a well-lit room with a one-color backdrop for standardization. Having a dedicated area within your facility streamlines the process considerably.
Now let's talk about
ID card software. By understanding the requirements of your ID card program, finding the software for your unique needs is relatively easy. ID software is broken down into three distinct groups:
- Entry-level software – an ideal choice for smaller companies that want simplicity when it comes to their ID cards. Most entry-level software offers the ability to print 1D (linear) barcodes, implement magnetic stripe encoding, and use on a single computer or workstation.
- Mid-level software – a great option for both small and medium-sized organizations. Mid-level software typically enables a user to import and export data, add and use unlimited data fields, and complete batch updating and printing.
- Fully-featured software – a comprehensive software solution for large or enterprise-level companies. Fully-featured software includes full network capabilities, enhanced security options, smart card and more.
You will also want to plan for installing the photo ID software and setting up your badge designs. Once you're ready to actually print your cards, a clean, dust-free environment will keep the quality of your prints high. We also offer dust covers to protect your printer from dust when your printer is not in use.
We offer training and support to help you set up your software, train you on how to make and save an ID badge in your software database, help you with printing barcodes or other technology your card requires, and much more. Get details>>
| If you need help finding an ID card printer or system for your organization, you can always contact a knowledgeable ID Professional. We're here to ask the important questions and ensure that you fulfill your ID card program requirements. Call us today at (800) 321-4405. |
