Category: Uncategorised

How confident are you in the quality and the reliability of your company’s security system? The good news is that you have many options to choose among. They’re so diversified that picking the right one may even be a bit confusing in the beginning.

Proximity cards add a lot of convenience due to their contactless nature. Figuring out whether they’re the right option for your organization is all about taking several factors in consideration.

What is a Proximity Card?

Let’s focus on the essentials first. This type of access control card holds information about its owner and grants or denies access to certain premises on the basis of this information.

This means that such security cards can be used to grant employees different levels of access to company facilities. They’re perfect for restricted premises and specialized/high security areas.

There are many different types of proximity cards to choose among. Generic badges are cheap and quick to make. These are perfect for giving all employees access to a building or an office. There are also ISO-compliant access options, cards that offer limitless customization and heavy-duty options.

The Most Important Benefits of Proximity Cards

Before figuring out whether this product is the next logical step in your company’s security plan, it’s important to understand its most important benefits.

Companies that feature different buildings or offices will require highly specific authorization options for different groups of employees. A proximity card makes the process very simple because it can be personalized. Otherwise, the company will have to come up with a rather complex and expensive integrative security system.

Such cards can be programmed to be compatible with different kinds of readers. Thus, they can easily be added to an existing security framework.

Currently, electronic card access is considered one of the most secure options for corporate, governmental and administrative buildings. Pre-programming makes cards functional during a certain period of time, after which the building is completely locked down. There are limitless ways in which security can be customized and enhanced. Proximity cards are starting to replace traditional locks and the effectiveness is unparalleled.

The use of electronic cards is also great for companies that see frequent employee changes. Once a person leaves the organization, their credentials are simply erased from the database. There’s no need to ask for keys or have the respective office/building re-keyed.

The Proximity Card = More Effective Security Management

The use of electronic cards that feature employee ID information is wonderful for keeping control over access and getting some additional information about attendance. Data from card use is recorded in the main database, giving organizations tons of useful information. Such information can play a vital role in human resource management.

The security benefits stemming from the use of such security systems don’t need to be described any further.

Companies interested in modernizing and customizing their access systems should definitely consider the option. Getting such cards and readers in place will require a single investment. Once the initial items are purchased, the system will allow for limitless customization at a minimal cost.

The use of a proximity card for every employee makes it extremely difficult for unauthorized individuals to enter a building or an office. Thus, larger companies that have a big number of workers or visitors should definitely consider the possibility. While proximity cards may not be an ideal option for smaller entities, such companies will also experience benefits from the introduction of such an innovative and customizable security measure.

Looking to learn more? Contact us today! 

As technology makes it easier for companies to manage many repetitive tasks that were once outsourced, it becomes increasingly necessary to learn about a much wider range of tools. The ID card printer is one of these amazing pieces of equipment that can save a substantial sum every year. However, you also have a lot of options.

The following are the best in the ID card printer business.

Evolis Badgy 200

The top spot goes to the product with the most obvious (and cartoonish) name, the Evolis Badgy 200. This ID card printer gives you a lot of options with a very small device. You can print in color or monochrome depending on your needs. It is incredibly
portable, making it ideal for use in the field. You can expect cards and badges to last between one and three years.

The only real limitation is that it does single-sided prints. Since most businesses and organizations don’t need double-sided prints, this is rarely an issue.  

Datacard SP25 Plus

Datacard has made it difficult to expect little from a printer with the SP25 Plus. With features that are far more advanced than were available just a few years ago, this handy little ID card printer can do a lot. You can print in color or monochrome, as well as reusing a card if you mess up. It is quick and has a resolution of 300 DPI. If you need tighter security, it comes with the ability to use smart card and magnetic stripe.

Magicard Enduro+

Falling between the capabilities of the top ranked printer on this list and the second, the Magicard Enduro+ has a lot to offer. With multiple printing modes, you adjust the settings quickly based on your badge or ID needs. If your printing needs are between low- and mid-volume, it is the perfect printer for single-sided printing with a few extra additions.

Evolis Tattoo 2Rewrite

This hardy little printer is capable of between 2,500 and 3,000 cards every year. Covering all of your basic badging needs, it has some additional security features too. One of the most portable ID card printers on the list, it is perfect for field work. The only real limitation is that it only prints in monochrome.

Fargo DTC1250e and DTC4500e

One of the leading names in high resolution printing, so it is no wonder they have two printers on this list.

The DTC1250e costs less, and offers fewer functions, but it is a great solution for smaller businesses that don’t need heavy duty badges and ID cards. With the ability to print 225 cards every hour (both color and monochrome), it is by no means inferior to the other printers on this list. The model prints single-sided cards, but you can use an add-on module for double-sided printing as needed.

The second printer, the DTC4500e is the costlier and far more advanced of the two Fargo models. It can print rapidly in color and monochrome, and is popular in schools, large organizations, and government facilities. The basic model prints single-sided cards with lamination and encoding. If you need double-sided cards, you can upgrade it and have pretty much every advantage you need to print a high-quality card.

Looking to learn more? Contact us at Avon Security Products today! 

Even though the movement has been around for well over a decade, many companies are still implementing membership card options to their customers. In large part, buyers across many industries enjoy all of the perks that come with these cards. If you haven’t started a membership card initiative because you don’t think it will benefit your business, you may want to reconsider this option.

The membership card has already helped a number of industries. If your business belongs to one of these industries, you may want to think about starting a membership card program. These industries are among the ones most likely to benefit from such a program.

Cafes and Coffee Shops

People love going to a café and getting a free item with their membership card. These programs have proven that customers are more likely to shop at a location where they can get discounts and unique offers. Cafés and coffee shops are places where people can make a quick stop while running around. A membership card makes it more likely that they will do just that.

Restaurants

Just like cafes, restaurants are more likely to earn loyal customers by offering a membership card program. When coupled with email campaigns, programs like this easily increase sales. For example, if your restaurant is typically slow on Tuesdays, you can offer free appetizer to your members on Tuesdays. A popular campaign for restaurant memberships is to offer either money off after a certain dollar amount is spent or a free entrée after so many entrées have been purchased.

Grocery and Food Stores

Even grocery and convenience stores benefit from offering a little bit more to their customers. You can use the cards to offer free food, additional coupons, better deals, and free items. People love being able to stretch their food budget a little bit further. These cards give them a way to do just that.

Gyms and Recreation Centers

Membership cards are advantageous to gyms and recreation centers for several reasons. It helps to easily identify patrons who are members during the check in process. The cards are incredibly easy to scan as members enter. They are easy to track, so that patrons don’t end up having something large to store while they are exercising. Finally, they make it easy for the gym to track who visits, how often, and when. This is important for offering discounts, classes, and during membership renewal.

Retail Stores

Whether you are locally owned and operated or are part of a larger group of retail store, membership card programs are incredibly beneficial. They are easy for customers to track while giving you a lot of useful data about shopping patterns. Like the food industry, customer love to get stuff for free and get better discounts than none members. Stores who have implemented these programs are more likely to build loyal customer bases.

Gas Stations

With as uncertain as the price of gas has been over the last couple of decades, people love to know that they can get a better price. Gas stations that have membership programs are more likely to be visited than those without because even if your gas is a little more expensive than a competitor, customers can get it cheaper with their card.

Looking for more information on membership cards? Contact us at Avon Security Products today!

Bigger isn’t always better, but things can be just a bit easier when size is on your side. If you are in charge of coordinating a large public event, you may be struggling with keeping your attendees and their property safe and secure.

For Your Local Festival

From the Carrot Fest to the Tecumseh Corn Festival and everything in between, a small town celebration can span multiple city blocks and sprawl outside of the courthouse square. For both managing the parade and keeping the vendors’ area running smoothly, oversized ID cards become an asset that saves time and money. Any security personnel who are working the festival will have a difficult time telling who has access to which areas. A large amount of people and area that need to be covered don’t leave them time to monitor anything but suspicious movement, so highly visible badges can let them quickly spot out someone lurking around the wrong tent without harassing every festival goer into a poor mood for a party.

Under the Stadium Lights

Whether it’s soccer, rugby, or football, sports events can turn into a logistical nightmare as students are bussed in from out of town, overeager parents fight for the best seats, and the teams have to share space on the practice fields and in the locker rooms. Tournaments can be especially hectic, so team spaces should be reserved for anyone that is wearing a uniform or that has one of the oversized cards bearing a team logo.

At the Talent Show

A raging Battle of the Bands or a grab-bag of student performances at a talent show can become chaos incarnate with multiple groups moving on and off stage after a single song or terrible puppet act. Even the most steady-handed and stoic theater director will be on edge and in need of assistance moving the thespians to their proper spots. By assigning the group with colored and numbered oversized cards as a badge for each member, the support staff can wrangle wandering teens or alert you to an unauthorized presence amongst the support staff the kids are using for the show.

For the Conference

When the hotel lobby and event rooms are crawling with both conventioneers and other guests, conference security benefits from having readily visible identification. Hobby conferences are frequently populated by vendor booths full of valuable merchandise, and any keynote event may contain proprietary content. Both of these deserve stringent protection against unauthorized access.

At Any Outdoor Event

IDs the size of credit cards are sufficient in an office environment, but they quickly lose relevance as the size of the venue increases. A busy golf tournament, a sprawling concert in a natural basin, or a car show at a race track are some examples of outdoor venues that could benefit from oversized cards.

Make Visible Gains in Your Security Level

While you can defend yourself from threats you can’t see, having a high level of visibility helps make it that much easier to keep control of a large crowd of people. The managerial and security staff of any major event can agree that going with oversized ID cards is the responsible and sensible solution.

To learn more about oversized cards, or to purchase the items you need to print yours, contact us today!

When it comes to ID cards, your company has two options – buy an ID printer or outsource the process; both have their benefits and shortcomings. The size of the company, the number of ID cards you need and the staff changes will all have a profound impact on the decision. These are the factors to take into consideration before choosing an ID printer or opting for an outsourced service.

The Benefits of Owning an ID Printer

Having an ID badge printer on premises is certainly linked to tons of convenience. Once you invest in the machine, you can have ID cards printed quickly and on demand. You’ll be free from having to cooperate with another entity on the process. ID printing equipment is easy to operate and a single card will be produced in a manner of seconds.

There are dozens of printers to choose among on the basis of company needs. Spare parts and additional supplies are incredibly cost-efficient and they can be bought effortlessly online. Once you invest in these, you’ll be free from having to spend more money in the future.

The ownership of an ID printer frees you from some additional costs. There’s no need to pay for shipping and handling. If your organization needs numerous ID cards on a regular basis, spending money one time on the purchase of a printer would be the smartest thing to do.

Having a printer on premises also allows for immediate modifications in the case of staff changes. The ownership of a printer allows for the execution of top-notch security measures. Companies and institutions that deal with sensitive information or own expensive equipment should definitely prioritize the purchase of an ID printer.

Printer ownership enables full control over data encoding and the issuance process. Thus, governmental organizations, companies that issue membership cards and licenses and large corporations will get the best price and service from the purchase of ID printing card equipment.

Outsourcing ID Card Printing: When and Why?

While almost all businesses will benefit from having a printer on premises, there are a few small exceptions. The purchase of an ID printer does not make sense for companies that issue a small number of ID cards every now and then and don’t expect a lot of growth in the future.

There’s also no need to hire staff and invest in their training by opting for ID card printing outsourcing. The company responsible for offering such services will handle the design, production and the delivery of the finalized product.

Depending on the type and the number of cards, some printing companies may offer additional discounts. In this case, the process will become even more cost-efficient.

Before opting for outsourcing, however, remember that a third party will be handling personal employee information. Also, the costs will be ongoing. Once you invest in a printer, you’ll get to use it in the long run. A printer allows effortless control over changes and it’s a money-saving tool in the long run.

Final Verdict

Larger companies and entities that deal with highly sensitive information will definitely benefit from the purchase of an ID printer. The same applies to businesses interested in a cost-efficient solution.

Startups are typically the ones that will get the biggest number of benefits from outsourcing. In all other instances, owning ID card printing equipment will bring tons of convenience and long-term savings to the table. Thus, businesses interested in flexibility and cost-efficiency should definitely pursue the purchase of card printing equipment. Contact us today to learn more!

If you’ve ever watched a photographer work then you know the importance of minimizing background distractions. In fact, this is one of the hallmarks of professional work: the use of backdrop stands or effective substitute to ensure the audience’s focus remains on the subject of the shot.

Although it’s possible to substitute a make-shift backdrop background, you’ll never realize the full potential of your photographs without the benefit of a sturdy stand and a quality backdrop. You must be able to easily arrange the sheet behind the subject, and it needs to be seamless so that it doesn’t take any attention away.

The Portable Photo Backdrop Stand with Backdrop

This popular option from Avon Security Products is excellent for small and medium-sized spaces. Since it measures 28in by 34in, with an adjustable stand that scopes from 28in to 78in, it is quite enough to fill up the background for photo ID shots such as passports and other government credentials. Of course, it functions just as well if you run a school and need to photograph students, or an office with a policy of employee photo badges.>

As you would expect, the portability of this backdrops derives from how easy it is to disassemble and reassemble. Despite the sturdiness of its construction, it is surprisingly lightweight and can easily be handled by one person. The polyester sheet comes with the option of different solid colors:>

·         Grey

·         Black

·         White

·         Green

·         Yellow

·         Red

·         Light Blue

·         Royal Blue

There are also reversible color options with the white and two blue colors for a small extra fee, allowing you to use one backdrop stand for several different photo ID applications.

The Standing Retractable Backdrop

This Avon Security Products option is even more robust than the previous backdrop; it has dimensions spanning 35in x 50in, has a portable tripod stand, and comes in green, grey, light blue, royal blue, red, white and yellow. This one is a lot lower to the floor, also, and because of its size, can accommodate a larger room for photo shoots.

For ease of transport, Avon Security Products also sells a soft nylon carrying case that can accommodate both the background and the tripod or straight stand. The latter must be collapsed in order to fit, but they come with this functionality – so this isn’t a problem.

Ramp up the quality and professionalism of your photos – Avon Security Products carries everything that you’d need. Contact us today to learn more!

It doesn’t matter what mind of a business you run; whether you are a corporation, a small business, or you work from home, having the right tools available to you makes all the difference. With today’s technology you have capable, efficient, and quality tools such as Zebra printers to help you with all of your printing needs. However, because there are so many Zebra printers available, it’s hard to discern which one you should buy for your specific business needs. Below, we will be going over a few of the best printers from Zebra, as well as what businesses they work best for .

Desktop Printers

These printers are small enough to where you can place them right on a table or a desk. The newest model is the ZD420 and it can print an item 7.9 seconds. If you want something fast and efficient, that won’t take up a lot of space, the ZD42 is the best printer for you. This printer works well with businesses that are agencies where you need to print things like nameplates and product labels, as well as asset and lab specimen sample labels. The ZD420 is also a good option for people that need to work with a printer that is quick, but easy to use – it is good for any user level.

Industrial Printers

When you have a business where efficiency, durability, and variety is in order, you need an industrial printer. One of the better models is the Xi Series. This printer works best with companies and businesses in the transportation, retail, and manufacturing industries. You can do all sorts of tasks with these industrial Zebra printers, this one specifically can be used for shipping and receiving, compliance labeling, inventory checklists, management, cross docking and even work in process tracking.

ID Card Printers

If you are in the healthcare, restaurant/hospitality, or retail industries and you need to make up things like name tags, or even more complex options like creating gift cards, brochures or government IDs, these ID card printers are exactly what you need. You have quite a few series and models in this genre, however, the best one is the professional card reader – ZXP 3. This is right in the middle in terms of cost, and has some really great features such as branch office printing, membership cards and retail cards, personal ID printing and more. The Zebra printers in the ZXP 3 series can do single or double-sided prints and are best suited for businesses looking for a low to medium volume of cards to be printed.

RFID Printers

Zebra printers also have RFID printers. These printers do more than just print, as they can keep track of insights as well. The ZT400 Series is good for people in retail, transportation, warehouse management, manufacturing and in the healthcare industries. The ZT can literally do dozens of tasks quickly and efficiently such as help with back of store operations, print out documents and patient records, compliance labeling, serial number printing, product number printing, cross docking, and specimen/laboratory labeling. It also features quite a few resolutions depending on the one you need.

Any of these would work well for your business. It really all comes down to what you need the printer to do, what your budget is, and of course what you specifically want to use the printer for. Thankfully, Zebra offers a wide array of over 50 different printers in all categories which allow you to choose the one that would fit your needs the best.

To find the ID card printer you need from Zebra, contact us today!

Plastic card printing is actually a relatively easy task that can be done within a short amount of time. However, there are several things you will need before you get started with your place card printing.

High-resolution printers make it incredibly easy to create a high-quality card. You will need to make sure you get a printer that is able to print to both the quality and security level you need though. Many printers are able to be used in the field as well, making it easy to create visitor badges and other identification away from the office.

Some printers are also able to laminate and add security coding. These make it far easier to manage your tools and equipment as you won’t need to run trial and error for your items. If you need to print double-sided, make sure you find a printer that can manage the work. Many only print one-sided cards.

Card Material

The next item you need for your plastic card printing is the card itself. The type of card you need will be identified with the printer you purchase. Make sure to pay attention to the method of printing as well as that will affect the type of card you can use. Inkjet printers work better with a different type of material than a laser printer.

Laminate or Cover

Nearly all badges and id cards include a cover that will protect them. Laminating is a great way to ensure the life of a card after it has been through plastic card printing, but there are other ways to protect cards. The method of protection you choose could affect the other items you need. For example, if you simply slide the card into a protective cover, then you will need to have some way of safeguarding the card, such as a cover that can be sealed.

Software

This one is a bit trickier because it will depend on the printer you choose. All printers will require you to have the right software for plastic card printing, but the way you access the software can vary. The simplest setup is to have the software on the printer itself so that you do not need a computer or mobile device to complete the work.

Printers that contain all of the necessary software let you use their screens to set up the necessary information. However, if you include pictures, you will need some way to upload those images from the camera. It is important to read through all of the requirements for the software so that you can be prepared with all of the right tools before you begin.

Camera

If you need to add a picture to the id card or badge, you need a camera that can deliver a great picture. No matter how good cameras on phones have gotten, it is still not a great way to take an official picture. Make sure you get a camera that can deliver a high-resolution picture that is both clear and crisp so that your prints are successful.

Miscellaneous Items

These are items that you don’t need, but may be nice to have. For badges, you may need an additional cover so that the carrier can hang the badge around their neck or from a belt loop. If you need to punch holes into the card, make sure you have something that will provide consistent clean holes.

To invest in all the products you need for plastic card printing, shop our selection at Avon Security Products or contact us directly to learn more today!

These days, many professions require you to be able to print while you are on the go. While this is very handy in many ways, you are likely to find yourself wondering if you should invest in a printer carrying case to ensure your printer is safe. Or, you may be putting your printer in storage, in which case a printer carrying case will probably seem like a really good idea.

If you are unsure if you need a case for your printer, here are a few things to consider.

Exposure

The kind of conditions will the printer be exposed to will play a large role in whether or not you need a case.

·       Will it be moved between offices?

·       Is it likely to be sitting somewhere unused for a while?

·       Is there a chance that it can get wet?

·       Will it accumulate a lot of dust?

These are all important questions in the final decision if you need a printer carrying case. If the answer to any of these is yes, a carrying case is your best option. It will protect your printer from the elements and dust so that it will work just as well the next time you need it.

Additional Protection

In addition to exposure, you need to ensure that your printer is safe from accidents. A printer carrying case will help cushion your printer in the event that it is dropped, bumped into something, or has something placed on top of it. Of course, using caution when working with your printer is the best thing to do, but accidents happen. The carrying case is like additional insurance for those times when the unexpected happen.

Storage for Additional Items

While the printer may be the biggest component, you will likely need a way to carry additional parts. Paper and precut cards are items you will certainly need, but you also need a way to carry ink or toner, cords or batteries, and other items you need for your finished product. This is particularly important if you print cards and badges in the field. A printer carrying case gives you a way to store everything in a single place so you do not lose something important.

Easier Transport

Carrying cases are good for a lot of things, but this is definitively a reason of convenience. No matter how small a printer is, they are still a bit awkward to carry. A case makes it easy to transport your printer with minimal effort. From handles for smaller printers to wheels for larger printer models, cases come in a wide range of types to help you better move your printer when needed.

Asset Management

The more printers you or your business manage, the more important it is to be able to easily identify each asset. The case will give you a way of easily managing your portable printers (or those you place in storage) so that you do not have to spend a lot of time looking for the right printer. All of the necessary information is posted on the case for easy check in or check out.

To find the printer carrying case you need for your exact printer model, shop our selection or contact us directly today!

ID badge holders bring professionalism to any social gathering or workplace. They hold the key for others to understand and recognize your role at your job and also identify who you are to guests during formal and informal events. Without the proper identification, you become just a nameless face in a crowd. Your name or title allows you to garner the recognition you need to become successful in any venture.

The classic pin in place badge holder can destroy clothing and become a reoccurring problem. Nothing says sloppy or unkempt like clothing with tears, sadly sticking a pin through your stylish and professional blazer is asking for disaster. They also have that terrible propensity to catch on to things such as stray fabrics. ID badge holders should never inconvenience you and wreak havoc on your wardrobe. Magnetic ID badge holders are the easy solution.

Nothing brings aggravation more than clip-on badge holders. Your neatly pressed button up shirt, or classic silk blouse are the first victims to clip-on wrinkling. The odd little fabric lip that extends over your torso because of a metal clip is a fashion faux pas just waiting to happen. Your clothes don’t deserve that kind of treatment and neither do you! First impressions are everything in the business world and in all matters of socialization. Magnetic ID badge holders help to ensure the persona you give off to your clients, peers or other associates is a confident and capable one.

Sticking a Pin in the Competition

High-profile clients, executives, and social peers often demand your very best. How can you be at your best without looking the part and feeling comfortable in your own skin? The magic in magnetic ID badge holders lies in their functionality, their simple solution to solving a multitude of wardrobe malfunction problems. Badge holders that dangle look less professional, often becoming crooked, and hang at awkward angles. Other types of badge holders can feel cumbersome and weighty; a magnetic ID badge holder provides the proper support and movement, so that you may forget you are even wearing an ID badge!

Do you find yourself struggling over your next wardrobe choice for fear your ID badge holder will do damage to the fabric? Are you worried that your antiquated ID holder will make you appear less than at your professional best? Magnetic ID badge holders bring the advantages of streamline and sleek to you.  To discover how magnetic ID badge holders can keep you looking professional and put together no matter what the occasion calls for, contact us at Avon Security Products today!