How to Choose Between Varying Zebra Printers

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!

The Items You Need for Plastic Card Printing

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!

Should You Invest in a Printer Carrying Case?

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!

Avoid Damaging Clothing with Magnetic ID Badge Holders

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!

Should You Invest in Coloured or Clear Plastic Name Tag Holders

Maintaining a balance of professionalism and organization is key in making any event, function or social gathering a raving success! From class reunions to government meetings, each event or professional atmosphere requires numerous practical and multi-functional moving parts to allow the event to run smoothly. Plastic name tag holders are the go-to accessories for any formal or casual get together. University students, party goers, government officials, and even office employees look to clear or colored plastic name tag holders to recognize and identify each person as their own unique individual.

 width= Pro-Colour

Why choose colored name tag/badge holders? Here are a few eye-catching reasons.

Color is a great tool for sorting. Various groups, teams or individuals can have corresponding colors that allow for event leaders, attendees or even the errant passerby to distinguish each attendant’s position, personal contribution or interest.

For those who like to display their own unique and colorful personality, event attendees can take advantage of brightly colored name tag holders and customize their look.

Some events coordinate table settings, workshops and even group leaders to a certain color. Colored name tag holders fulfill functionality and formal flare with simplistic and hassle-free ease.

Pro-Clear

It’s clear as day, literally. Clear name tag holders are simple but mighty sorters for those who utilize these functional tools of sorting.

Large bold print highlighted behind transparent durable plastic coaxes the eye and declares undeniable intent. If your event needs simple and straight-forward clear plastic covers brings clarity to any function.

Do you need a touch of formal to bring your event full-circle? When you provide your guests with convenient and easy to use plastic name tag holders, any attendant will feel like a valued individual and part of something bigger. With customization options such as rigid or thinner plastic name tag holders, the clear plastic will help to preserve names and any other pertinent information that is required for a successful event.

Your Choice

Preferences are highly circumstantial and such is the case with colored or clear plastic name tag holders. If you feel color coordinated name tags are the perfect way to bring functionality and a touch of creativity to your event, it’s the best choice for you! For those who would forgo the color choice for the simpler yet still professional clear name tag holders, just do it! There is no clear winner, whatever the choice it’ll be the right one. Find out more by clicking here and let Avon Security Products ensure that any event you plan finishes with a standing ovation!

Paper vs Plastic Cards

Do you strive for convenience and efficiency? Are you searching for marketing or advertising tools that will serve you well and further your purpose? The materials used to reach for success can affect the marketing portion of business plans, and positively or negatively impact first impressions. Professional-in-design business cards, ID cards or badges say a lot about what you offer your clients, event attendants or those who congregate to enjoy the occasional social gathering. If you want to achieve greatness, asking the right questions affords you opportunities for successful endeavors. So, the first question you should ask yourself is “Do I want paper or plastic?”

Durable or Disposable?

The cliché question “paper or plastic” seems a bit trivial by design but actually influences your bottom line. Small/large businesses, formal or informal conventions, weddings or receptions or the occasional soiree provide numerous options for branding, advertising or personalized touches to utilize. The paper card versus the plastic card debate in terms of providing identification for attendants or marketing for businesses is real. The comparison could perhaps be coined as short-term reward versus long-term success.

Why the Plastic Card is the Obvious Solution

While diamonds are forever, plastic at least comes in at a close second in the lasting category. Here are a few of the reasons behind choosing plastic over paper in the race to find the best material for your business or special events:

The plastic card is very weather-resistant. Unlike paper cards that are easily ruined by exposure to moisture, plastic wears well.

No need to laminate. While paper ID cards may seem the more affordable option at the time, costs to laminate paper cards add up quickly and take away from your marketing or event’s budget.

Great for representing your organization or business, the plastic card has a more refined and genteel look in comparison with paper cards that are easily bent or can tear. You wouldn’t want to look crumpled and disorderly in an interview or a business meeting, your ID or business card shouldn’t either!

Using plastic cards equates to saving time and time is money! One stop printing on plastic instead of a two-step process to print and then laminate cut time in half and breed efficiency.

Paper ID’s or badges can be easily replicated or tampered with but cards made out of plastic material are more secure. Because of the more advanced technology or specific printing systems needed to print on plastic, it is a more viable form of protection against criminal activity.

Plastic is Fantastic

If you desire to let your attributes glisten from the surface of a plastic card, you need to find the right resource to help you achieve your goals. Showcase your business acumen, your event-planning skills, or your marketing strategies by enlisting Avon Security Products to provide you with quality product that promises high-quality returns! Click here and acquire the best “contact” to help you achieve undeniable success!

How to Spruce Up Traditional Name Badges

Sturdy name badges that come with lanyards are a much better choice than hand-printing a name on a sticky badge and slapping in on the chest. Along with looking more professional, these types of badges provide the opportunity to let others know a little more about the person without asking questions. Here are some simple ways to enhance those traditional badges and make them more informative and interesting.

 width= Size Really Does Matter

Start the enhancement process by considering different sizes. The goal is to choose name badges that are large enough that people don’t have to squint to read the name and other information on the badge front, but not so large that it’s a distraction.

For example, something that is around the size of an old-fashioned 5X7 card is a little larger than the standard badge, but it provides sufficient room to add some interesting details. It’s also small enough to not get crumpled or in the way as the wearer moves around the room or sits down for a chat with another attendee.

Choosing the Best Fonts

There are plenty of fonts to consider other than the standard block lettering. Feel free to go with something that’s a little out of the box, provided that the font choice does not make it hard for others to read the name or other information. A cursive font may look nice, but something too ornate will do more harm than good.

Using Logos on the Badge

The primary information for the name badge is always the wearer’s name. Depending on the type of event, the next most important bit of information may be a company name, a jot title, or a school affiliation. These elements must be the first things that people notice when they look at the badge.

Next in line is logos related to the person in some manner. Those logos could have to do with an association or club the individual belongs to, a cause the person supports, or an indicator of some award the person has received. Display those logos in a manner that’s subtle but still noticeable after others scan the primary and secondary information.

Choosing Colors

There’s no rule that says the background color of the name badge has to be white. Consider mixing things up a little by using some sort of light color. Think of how dark blue or black lettering would look against a pale yellow background. Maybe a bright orange with black lettering would stand out and encourage others to move in a little closer.

If you do prefer to stick with a white background, always use colors for the fonts and other elements that will stand out. Feel free to mix those colors for more effect. For example, using a brilliant red for the individual’s name followed by a deep blue for the company name and email address creates an attractive and legible presentation.

Double Sided Badges Are Great

Unless the name badges happen to be one of the types that pin to a lapel or clip to a shirt front, that means they will be attached to a lanyard. You can bet that as the day progresses, the badge will flip.  Instead of constantly having to adjust the badge so the front side is visible, print the same design on both sides. That little bit of ingenuity may be noticed by a potential customer and provide the perfect reason to strike up a conversation.

For more about name badges or to order your own, contact us at Avon Security Products today!

Create Custom Lanyards For Your University Freshmen

In years gone by, lanyards were ordinarily only used in the military or in the workplace, and what school lanyards existed were primarily blank, solid colors. Today, however, custom lanyards are much more widely used, much more affordable, and highly fashionable among university students.

To help you in planning a custom lanyard order for your freshman university class, we offer below some ideas on the usefulness of lanyards and the available variety:

 width= Uses for Custom Lanyards

The primary reason to outfit your freshman class with their very own customized lanyards is to create a sense of identity with the school and a sense of togetherness among class mates. This can be done by using your school color(s), by color-coding lanyards to immediately show who is a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior, and by imprinting the lanyards with the university name and/or logo.

It is especially fitting to hand out custom lanyards during freshman orientation or on the first day of classes, but they could also be distributed at any major school event that freshman are required to attend.

Additional uses of lanyards include:

Carrying ID cards with each student’s name, chosen major, and other information. Student contact information could even be included on the ID card in case the lanyard gets lost.

Increasing visibility and, thus, security on university grounds.

Holding USB drives, dorm room and other keys, and even water bottles; and keeping hats and sun glasses secure. (Depending on the attachment devices.

Promoting the university in every place where the students wear their lanyards.

Types of Custom Lanyards

Besides the custom design you choose to put on your lanyards, there are many other features that you will need to consider. Some of the most important lanyard options to be aware of include the following:

1. Breakaway vs. non-breakaway lanyards.
Whether the lanyard is put on and taken off by means of attachment/detachment or by lifting it over your head is a matter of preference. You may want to survey your freshman to see which type they prefer, or you could order some of each kind but with the same design.

2. Polyester or nylon. Most lanyards are made of either polyester, the most popular and most affordable material, or nylon, which gives a smooth, silky sheen.

3. Flat, braided, or rope. Most flat lanyards range from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inches wide, while round (rope) type lanyards can be as thin as 1/8 inch. Braided lanyards add an extra element of style.

4. Woven lanyards. For less detailed designs, woven lanyards can be an attracting alternative to imprinting.

5. Silkscreen printed lanyards. With both nylon and polyester, you can print texts and logos onto the lanyard’s surface by means of silkscreen printing. This is the same printing method used with coffee mugs and T-shirts, and it is capable of handling very intricate designs.

6. Dye sublimated lanyards. If you want multi-color printing on both sides of the lanyard and insist on the highest quality results, dye sublimation is your optimal printing method. Dye sublimation is generally done on a white polyester base, using heat and pressure to apply each color and pattern to the lanyard. The dye does not simply stay on the surface, but seep deep into the material, which helps the lanyard to be significantly more durable.

Where to Order Custom Lanyards

For high-quality, custom-printed lanyards, a convenient online source is Avon Security Products.

Avoid Misplacing Your Card with Retractable Badge Holders

Nobody likes losing their badge. Replacing one takes time, effort and distracts you from doing your job. Anything that can prevent you from misplacing your badge is a worthwhile investment. We think that a retractable badge holder an ideal solution to keeping your badge at your side where you need it. Don’t believe us? Here are 4 reasons why you should consider getting a retractable badge holder that will ensure you never have problems with your badge again.

You Have Quick and Easy Access

When you need to present or swipe your badge, speed matters. That’s why a retractable badge holder is so ideal. You can grab it from your side and present swipe it immediately. Badge holders also have a large range and are very flexible, meaning you can reach in any direction with complete ease. You get the benefits of having your badge secured without any of the limitations.

It’s Not an Eyesore

If you have a badge on your chest or elsewhere on your uniform, it can be an eyesore. It clashes with outfits that are supposed to make you look like a professional. Fortunately, retractable badge holders are an ideal solution to this fashion faux pas. It dangles discreetly from your side, ready for when you need it. You can also choose a colour and style to suit your particular fashion sense.

Your Badge Remains Securely Fastened at All Times

Pockets, wallets and other unsecured badge storage solutions create the opportunity for risk. Even one that is clipped to your shirt has the potential to fall off, leaving you without your badge. Worrying about your badge lessens your peace of mind and distracts you from getting the job done. By investing in a retractable badge holder, you can rest assured that your badge is safe and secure at all times.

You Don’t Have to Worry About Pulling it in and Out of Your Pocket

If you keep your badge stored in your pockets, it can be a big pain. It can be cumbersome to have to reach in and out of your pocket every time you need to swipe or show your badge. With a retractable badge holder, your card rests at your side at all times, making it easy to access at any time you need to.

Avon Security Products has an amazing selection of retractable badge holders to suit your need. They come in a variety of lengths, colours and styles so you are sure to find something you’ll love. Browse our selection online today!

Which Colours Should You Buy When Purchasing Backdrops for Photography

If you are wondering which colours of backdrops for photography work best, you aren’t alone. Photographers have all sorts of opinions on the subject. A quick internet search will return a lot of differing advice, making it even harder to know which colour is best for you. Fortunately, we have put a list together for you to help. Although a lot of comes down to your clients’ needs and personal taste, there are some key differences. Here’s a list of most common backdrops for photography and what each can deliver.

Choose Between Paper and Muslin

Before you select a colour, it’s important to choose between paper and muslin when looking at backdrops for photography; each has its distinct advantages. Muslin backdrops are most often solid in colour and ideal for shooting serious portraits, like for photo ID badges. Paper backdrops are normally used only once, are cheaper and come in almost any colour or texture.

Go with Green for Photo Editing

Green is one of the most popular backdrops for photography and for good reason. If you use photo editing software, a green screen allows you to add in whatever background you like during editing. So by buying a green backdrop, you’ll get whatever background your heart desires.

White Works for Almost Anything

A white seamless paper background is a great option if you are on a tight budget. They are inexpensive, versatile and help make your photos look professional. White also goes with any other colour, meaning it will match whatever uniform or clothing your subject is wearing. It can also reduce the cost of printing your photos.

Same Goes for Black

Much like white, black is an inexpensive and versatile background option that is popular among photographers who need a simple background. It also helps brighten colours to make your subject really stand out. Like white, it can go with just about any colour combination.

Enjoy Versatility with Blue

Blue is also a popular backdrop colour for photographers and is known for inferring intellect and technical knowledge. But if your subject isn’t wearing colours well suited to a blue backdrop, it will negatively impact the quality of your photos.

Choose Gray for a Neutral Hue

Gray provides a neutral colour that draws attention to the subject rather than the backdrop. It works well when you need to lighten the background and can go with almost any colour your subject might wear. If you need backdrops for photography, Avon Securities has got them. Check out our selection online and get the perfect backdrop to suit your needs.