When you plan to buy an ID card printer, your first task is to set out exactly what you’re looking for. There is no point to spending money on a printer that is capable of printing barcodes or adding RFID or SmartCard security options to cards if you’re only looking for a printer to handle high quality, single side printing with no encoding.
When you’re checking out specifications for good ID card printers you’ll discover options include:
Print Capacity
Print CapacityKnowing your print requirements before you buy a new ID card printer is very important, it’s a good idea to consider projected print needs for the years ahead too. Good printers will likely have abilities to print more than 500 cards daily, while government or university-type users will possibly need printers with abilities for very large scale print runs. Optional add-ons to consider include larger card input and output hoppers for greater speed and efficiency on large print runs.
Intuitive Interface
Choosing a printer with intuitive features that include useful LED display and screen prompts make it easy for new employees and temps to operate the machine. Ordering supplies and fitting new print ribbons are a breeze with printers that will guide the operative through the correct procedures.
Print Methods
You can opt for printers to print the card face alone or choose dual side printers. The single side printers are slightly cheaper, while dual side printers will typically provide full color printing on the face and black on the reverse. Different print methods affect the pricing of ID card printers. Standard thermal transfer printers are the most cost effective as they print direct to cards, however there will always be a border around the edge as it is impossible to print the full card using this method. The alternative is reverse printing to cards which will give full card coverage and offers slightly higher quality. If you need to print on different thickness cards, opt for a printer providing this feature.
Laminating
Some of the high volume ID card printers offer laminating abilities, or it’s possible to add single-sided or duplex laminating at a later date.
Encoding
Encoding options for printers include holograms, barcodes, magnetic stripe, smart card, RFID. Printers providing RFID capabilities are more expensive, however this technology provides many benefits including extended read range and options for reading by automated processes. Barcoding is the easiest coding option, while magnetic stripe printers need to encode cards with barcoding already applied and smart card coding gives the highest possible levels of card security. If you’re unsure whether encoding may be required in future, opt for a printer which can be upgraded at a later date.
Avon Security Products can help you find the best ID card printer to suit your business needs. All you need do is provide us with an estimate of the number of cards printed each year and indicate whether you want single or dual side printing, then take time to compare the range of available printers that meet your basic criteria. You’ll discover a wide range of special offers at Avon Security Products, alongside all the supplies you need to keep your ID card printer operating at optimal levels. Contact us today for more information.