RFID Cards vs. Proximity Cards: Understanding the Technology Differences

If you have walked into a modern building and swiped a card, and entered without interacting with the security personnel, you have experienced the wonders of modern access control technology – RFID cards and proximity cards.

RFID is often considered another term for proximity, but that is a myth. While they are part of the same technological family, some subtle yet significant differences set them apart. It’s like comparing fraternal twins – they might look alike, but they each have their own distinct personalities.

Avon Security Products offers RFID and proximity products for ID and security, allowing you to pick one that suits your needs. We also aim to educate our customers to ensure they are making the right decision when choosing a system. Learn more about the difference between the two technologies before selecting one for your business.

Understanding the Basics: RFID Cards and Proximity Cards

Both RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) cards and proximity cards fall under the umbrella of contactless access control. They’re designed to provide secure and convenient entry to buildings, rooms, and even some elevators.

RFID Cards

RFID cards make it possible to open a door by hovering your card close to the reader through radio waves. Each card contains a tiny microchip and an antenna communicating with a corresponding reader. The reader sends out a radio signal, and when your card is within its range, it responds with the necessary data.

Proximity Cards

These cards might seem like close cousins to RFID cards, but they operate on a slightly different wavelength. Proximity cards don’t rely on radio waves but use low-frequency magnetic fields. When you hold proximity and access cards near the reader, the magnetic field generated powers up the card’s circuit, allowing it to transmit its unique code to the reader. Just like that, you’re granted access.

The Tech-Off: RFID vs. Proximity

So, what sets these two technologies apart?

Range and Speed

RFID cards generally offer a more extended reading range compared to proximity cards. This means you can wave your RFID card slightly farther to trigger the reader. On the other hand, proximity cards might need more intimacy with the reader, but they often respond faster due to the simpler communication process. You can learn more about how proximity cards work when you understand the basics of programming proximity cards on our website.

Security Levels

When it comes to security, both technologies are almost equally efficient. However, RFID cards usually have more advanced encryption options, making them a preferred choice for high-security environments. Proximity cards, while secure, might be more suitable for applications where stringent security measures aren’t a top priority.

Compatibility and Cost

RFID technology has been around for a while and has gained widespread acceptance. This makes RFID cards more likely to be compatible with various systems, giving them an edge in versatility. However, proximity cards can sometimes be a more cost-effective solution, which might be a deciding factor for budget-conscious installations.

Applications of Each Card

Now that we have a handle on the tech nuances let’s explore where these cards shine brightest.

RFID Cards

These tech wonders are often found in bustling office buildings, corporate campuses, and other places where scalability, robust security, and integration with other systems are paramount.

Proximity Cards

If you’ve ever used a key fob to enter your gym or apartment building, chances are you’ve encountered proximity card technology. They’re simple, reliable, and great for scenarios where a quick response is more crucial than an extended reading range.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between RFID and proximity cards isn’t about picking a winner—it’s about finding the perfect fit for your needs. Consider your security requirements, budget constraints, and the specific environment where the cards will be used. Both technologies offer convenience and access control, ensuring you can enter your designated spaces with a flair of tech-savviness.

5 Essential Security Measures for High-Profile Events

Canada is home to many events, from concerts to government meetings and trade shows. These high-profile events often include a large gathering of people, and ensuring the safety and security of all the attendees, employees, and organizers is key to a successful event.

Lack of focus on security can result in various problems that can threaten the safety of the people at the venue. There are several hazards to keep an eye out for in large gatherings, such as pedestrians and vehicles moving in the same space or the audience being too close to an activity or stage. Another dangerous aspect of an event involves unauthorized individuals carrying weapons.

At Avon Security Products, we understand the value of hosting events in a safe space. So, we offer a range of security products, such as ID cards and badges, to help you host events with peace of mind. But it’s also important to learn about some essential security measures for high-profile events before organizing one.

1. Thorough Risk Assessment

A thorough risk is the first step in planning an event. Understanding potential threats and vulnerabilities allows organizers to craft a security plan that is both comprehensive and tailored to the event’s unique characteristics. A multidisciplinary approach involving security experts, law enforcement, and even local authorities can help identify potential scenarios and devise strategies to address them effectively. This step lays the foundation for a proactive security stance.

2. Access Control and Credentialing

High-profile events demand a strict approach to controlling access. Implementing access control measures helps prevent unauthorized individuals from entering restricted areas. This includes robust credentialing processes, such as background checks for personnel, attendees, and vendors.

It’s also important to use high-tech solutions like RFID ID cards for increased security, along with wristbands or biometric verification can further enhance security by allowing swift identification and tracking of authorized personnel. Well-defined zones with varying levels of access can help manage the flow of people efficiently.

3. Surveillance and Monitoring

The power of modern technology plays a significant role in event security. Strategically placed surveillance cameras, both visible and discreet, offer real-time monitoring of crowds and potential security breaches. Video analytics can identify suspicious behaviour, alerting security personnel to take immediate action.

Advanced monitoring software can also integrate with social media platforms, providing insights into potential threats or disturbances brewing online.

4. Emergency Response Planning

No matter how well-prepared an event is, unforeseen emergencies can arise. Having a well-developed emergency response plan in place is crucial. This plan should outline procedures for evacuations, medical emergencies, natural disasters, and even terrorist threats.

Collaborating with local law enforcement and emergency services ensures seamless coordination of efforts. Regular drills and simulations help all parties understand their roles and responsibilities in a crisis.

This also involves educating all the staff about the importance of ID badges during the event. Encourage them to always keep their badges with them to get quick access to authorized areas. This will ensure that only authorized personnel are allowed to enter private sections.

5. Cybersecurity Measures

Cyberattacks targeting event databases, ticketing systems, or personal information can lead to chaos. In fact, a new study from Microsoft revealed that sporting events and venues are at high risk of cyber-attacks. Other similar events may also become vulnerable to cybersecurity attacks if event planners and business owners don’t take the time to strengthen security measures.

Robust cybersecurity measures, including firewalls, encryption, and regular vulnerability assessments, are vital to safeguarding sensitive information. Training staff and stakeholders about phishing threats and other cyber risks also plays a pivotal role in preventing breaches.

Organizing a high-profile event is a significant task, and it involves ensuring the safety and security of all involved. A comprehensive security plan protects lives and safeguards the reputation and success of the event itself.

Understanding Different Types of ID Printer Ribbons

Identification plays a crucial role in various domains, such as businesses, institutions, and events. ID cards have become a standard means of verifying identities, granting access, and enhancing security.

Behind the scenes, ID printer ribbons are the elements responsible for creating vibrant, durable, and secure ID cards. As a top security products supplier in Canada, Avon Security Products offers a wide range of products, including ID printer ribbons, to help you safeguard your workplace. Our dedicated customer service team can also help you select the ideal products based on your needs.

But before you purchase printer ribbons and supplies, it’s important that you explore their different types and understand their importance in producing high-quality identification.

What Are ID Printer Ribbons?

ID printer ribbons are consumable supplies used in card printers to transfer images, text, and security features onto plastic cards. They consist of a plastic film coated with a combination of colour panels (YMCKO), black resin (K), or other specialized panels for encoding information.

At Avon Security Products, we understand the value of professional and durable security products, so we strive to create the best quality items that enable brands to establish their identity and facilitate easy identification of personnel and visitors.

Types of ID Printer Ribbons

Although we offer ID printer ribbons and supplies from various brands, it’s essential that you get familiar with different types of ID printer ribbons before choosing one for your facility.

YMCKO Ribbons

YMCKO ribbons are the most commonly used ribbons for printing ID cards. The acronym stands for Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black, and Overlay. These ribbons enable full-colour printing on both sides of the card, producing vibrant and visually appealing results. The yellow, magenta, and cyan panels mix to create various colours, while the black panel adds text and barcodes. The overlay panel protects the printed surface from fading and abrasion, ensuring durability.

Monochrome (K) Ribbons

Monochrome ribbons, or K ribbons, are used for single-colour printing, typically in black. These ribbons are ideal for printing simple text, barcodes, or line art on ID cards. They offer high contrast and are often used for membership cards, loyalty cards, and employee IDs where colour is not required.

Resin-Only Ribbons

Resin-only ribbons are designed for high-security applications, where durability and tamper resistance are essential. These ribbons use a special black resin panel to print text, barcodes, and images, which cannot be easily altered or duplicated. Resin ribbons are commonly used for printing driver’s licenses, government IDs, and access control cards.

Specialty Ribbons

Specialty ribbons cater to specific printing needs and offer additional functionalities. Some examples include:

  • UV Ribbons: These ribbons add a layer of ultraviolet (UV) ink to the printed elements, which is invisible to the naked eye but can be detected under UV light. This feature enhances security and prevents counterfeiting.
  • Holographic Ribbons: Holographic ribbons apply a thin holographic layer to the printed cards, adding an extra level of visual security. The holographic patterns are challenging to replicate, making the ID cards more secure.
  • Rewritable Ribbons: These ribbons allow you to print and erase information on the same card multiple times, making them suitable for applications like temporary visitor badges and reusable loyalty cards.

ID printer ribbons are the backbone of secure identification systems, enabling the creation of visually striking, durable, and tamper-resistant ID cards. By investing in high-quality ribbons and printers, businesses can ensure the production of reliable and professional identification solutions, contributing to enhanced security and smooth operations. It’s also important that you get familiar with the procedures of maintenance for ID card printers to ensure you can keep your printer running smoothly for a long time.

Tips on Designing Professional and Eye-Catching ID Cards

ID cards play a crucial role within every professional institution by providing a method of identification for its staff, students, and members. A well-designed ID card not only provides vital information but also reflects the brand image and professionalism of the organization.

Whether you’re considering refreshing your current ID cards or implementing a new system, it can be helpful to consider a few tips to create professional and eye-catching ID cards that leave a lasting impression. We offer customizable security products in Canada to help businesses make the ideal ID card system with features that best suit their unique needs. Consider the following tips to create a professional ID card system in-house.

Understand the Purpose

Before starting the design process, it’s important to understand the purpose of your company’s ID card. Consider the information that needs to be included, such as the individual’s name, position, photograph, logo, and any additional details required. This clarity will guide your design decisions and ensure the ID card effectively serves its intended purpose. In some cases, a simple ID card printing procedure might be sufficient. On the other hand, some companies may require a more complex ID card system to enhance security.

Choose an Appropriate Layout

The layout of an ID card plays a significant role in its overall appearance. Opt for a clean and organized design that allows for easy readability. Divide the card into logical sections, placing the most critical information prominently. For instance, the individual’s photograph and name should be easily visible.

Typography Matters

Selecting the right typography can significantly enhance the readability and professionalism of your ID card. Choose a clear, legible font that suits the overall design theme. Avoid using excessive decorative fonts that may compromise readability. Additionally, maintain consistency in font styles and sizes across different card sections.

Consider Card Durability

ID cards are subjected to daily wear and tear, so choosing durable materials is essential. Opt for high-quality cardstock or PVC to ensure longevity. Additionally, consider using lamination or other protective coatings to safeguard the card against damage, fading, or smudging.

Although choosing the right ID cards and taking care of your ID card printer can prolong the life of your ID cards, things can still go wrong sometimes. If you need help repairing an ID printer, our expert technical support teams are here to help. Throughout their years of operation, they have provided assistance to numerous clients throughout Canada and remain fully prepared to support you with your security requirements.

Utilize Branding Elements

ID cards are an excellent opportunity to showcase your organization’s branding. Incorporate your company or institution’s logo, colour scheme, and other branding elements to create a sense of visual coherence. This will reinforce your brand identity and add a professional touch to the ID card.

Incorporate Security Features

Security is a vital aspect of ID card design, especially in organizations where access control is required. Consider including security features such as holograms, watermarks, or barcodes to prevent counterfeiting and enhance the card’s authenticity. These features improve security and add a professional touch to the design.

Single-Sided vs Dual-Sided: Which ID Printer is Right for You?

ID Printer

ID cards are essential for various purposes, including identification, access control, and membership tracking. To create these cards efficiently, many organizations rely on ID card printers, such as a single-sided or dual-sided ID printer.

You can choose from a wide range of printer options from Avon Security Products based on your needs. But before you do, consider the differences between single-sided and dual-sided printers to determine which is suitable for your specific needs.

Single-Sided ID Printers

Single-sided ID printers can print on one side of an ID card.  They are typically more affordable and straightforward to operate compared to dual-sided printers. Single-sided printers are suitable for organizations that prioritize cost-effectiveness and have minimal printing requirements.

Benefits of Single-Sided ID Printers

Consider the following benefits of choosing single-sided ID printers for your business.

  • Affordability: Single-sided printers are generally more affordable, so small businesses with limited financial resources typically choose this option.
  • Simplicity: These printers are easier to use and require less maintenance. They typically have a simpler design and fewer moving parts, which reduces the chances of mechanical issues.
  • Faster Printing: Since single-sided printers only print on one side, they can often complete the printing process more quickly than their dual-sided counterparts.
  • Compact Size: Single-sided printers are usually more compact and take up less space, making them suitable for environments with limited room.
  • Customization: Despite being limited to one side, single-sided printers still offer a range of customization options, allowing you to add photos, text, barcodes, and other necessary elements to your ID cards. Choose from an extensive list of high-quality ID card printers from Avon Security Products and customize your IDs based on your needs.

Dual-Sided ID Printers

Dual-sided ID printers can print on both sides of an ID card, providing more space for information and design elements. Dual-sided printers are commonly used by organizations that require more detailed and comprehensive ID cards.

Benefits of Dual-Sided ID Printers

Here are a few benefits of dual-sided ID printers that can help you make your decision easier.

  • Higher Card Capacity: Dual-sided printers offer the advantage of printing more information, in addition to essential employee details, on a single card. This is especially useful if you need to include additional details such as terms and conditions, emergency contact information, or company branding.
  • Professional Appearance: With dual-sided printing, you can create visually appealing ID cards that reflect a more professional image. The extra space allows for better layout and design possibilities, enabling you to prominently showcase your organization’s brand or logo.
  • Enhanced Security Features: Dual-sided printers allow for the inclusion of additional security features on the backside of the card, such as holograms, watermarks, or UV printing. These features make it more challenging to counterfeit or tamper with ID cards. But it’s important to remember that you need to follow the recommended maintenance for ID printers to continue receiving the best output from your printer.
  • Versatility: Dual-sided printers provide flexibility, allowing you to print different types of information on each side of the card. For instance, you can have employee details on one side and safety guidelines or emergency procedures on the other.
  • Time and Cost Efficiency: While dual-sided printing may take slightly longer than single-sided printing, it eliminates the need to print additional cards or attachments. This reduces printing costs and saves time by consolidating all necessary information on a single card.

Which Printer is Right for You?

To determine which ID printer is right for you, consider your budget, information needs, business size, and branding needs. Single-sided printers are cost-effective and suitable for basic ID card printing, while dual-sided printers offer more space, versatility, and enhanced security features. Evaluate your needs carefully to make an informed decision that aligns with your organization’s objectives.

How ID Cards Enhance Safety and Security at Summer Camps

A boy holding his security card at a summer camp

Many people are excited about attending or sending children to summer camps as the summer season approaches. Summer camps offer a fantastic opportunity for kids to have fun, make friends, and engage in various activities. According to the Canadian Camping Association, camping enables kids to embrace qualities they can benefit from beyond their trip, such as cooperation, care, tolerance, and respect.

Although camping provides several great opportunities, safety and security are always a top priority for parents sending their kids on an adventure. The good news is campsites and organizations hosting camps can enhance safety at summer camps to provide peace of mind to parents. Consider the following factors when creating a camping experience for children to ensure they can gather around the campfire with their smores while their parents feel confident about their safety.

Easy Identification

The number of children attending your camp can vary, but a large group of children usually run around, participating in various activities. Camp staff can find it challenging to quickly identify each child and match them with their respective parents or guardians. That’s where ID cards come to the rescue.

Issuing a personalized ID card for every camper that includes their name, photograph, and other essential details can enhance security at the site. These cards make it easier for staff members to identify campers promptly and ensure they are in the right place at the right time. At Avon Security Products, we aim to help you find the best security products that meet your unique needs. We offer a wide range of security products with varying levels of technology to help you choose the one that best suits your camping needs.

Access Control

Summer camps are often sprawling spaces with multiple buildings, activity areas, and amenities. To ensure the safety of campers, access control is vital. ID cards can incorporate innovative technology like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) or barcodes, enabling camp staff to monitor and control access to specific areas. Campers and staff members can access authorized locations, such as cabins, dining halls, or swimming pools, by swiping or scanning their ID cards. This feature helps prevent unauthorized individuals from entering restricted areas and keeps campers safe.

Medical Information

Health and safety are crucial things to consider at summer camps. ID cards can contain important medical information about each camper, including allergies, chronic conditions, and emergency contact numbers.

In case of a medical emergency or health-related concerns, the camp staff can quickly access the information from the ID cards and take appropriate action. The best way to ensure that ID cards are always easily accessible is by providing all campers with ID badge holders to store their IDs. This will ensure that the campers always have their ID cards with them, enabling them to receive the required medical attention promptly, reducing response time, and potentially preventing severe incidents.

Lost and Found

It’s not uncommon for kids to misplace or lose personal belongings during the excitement of summer camp. ID cards can serve as a helpful tool in reuniting campers with their lost items. Camp staff can easily match lost items with their rightful owners by attaching or scanning the ID card. This streamlined process saves time, provides security for summer events, minimizes frustration, and ensures that campers don’t lose valuable items or personal belongings.

Summer camps are a time for adventure, growth, and creating lifelong memories. However, ensuring the safety and security of campers with ID cards is essential for all campsites.

Enhance Resort Security with ID Cards


Back view of tourist posing with her luggage in a balcony with an ocean view

As a resort owner, you want guests to have the most memorable experience at your facility. The guests who visit your resort come in with the same vision in mind and want to leave with good memories. Unfortunately, a lack of security in the hospitality industry can turn your guests’ stay into a bitter experience. Whether it’s due to theft of personal belongings or loss of confidential information, one bad experience can deter future guests and hinder your credibility.

The good news is you can enhance resort security with ID cards and mitigate modern security risks by educating yourself about potential threats. Our team of security product experts understands the importance of staying ahead of the curve, so we offer several solutions to help you secure your resort. Here are a few ways to enhance resort security with ID cards to maintain your business image and create a positive guest experience. 

Resort Security Risks & Solutions 

Resorts typically welcome guests from different locations, so they have become prime targets for various threats. Consider the following resort security risks to ensure your facility is always prepared and up-to-date with modern threats.

Cybersecurity Threats

With the increasing reliance on technology, resorts are highly vulnerable to cyber threats. These may include data breaches, hacking attempts, and unauthorized access to guest information. A study revealed that many hotel staff don’t have the knowledge to handle potential threats, making the hospitality industry more vulnerable to cyber threats. 

You must take robust cybersecurity measures to enhance security at your facility and safeguard guest privacy. This includes secure Wi-Fi networks, regular system updates, and employee training on data protection. An efficient ID card system will also ensure that unauthorized individuals cannot access an area with computers, reducing the risk of data breaches from stored confidential data.

Unauthorized Access

Resorts typically have multiple entrances, including beachfront access, pools, and other recreational areas. Unauthorized individuals may try to take advantage of this to gain access to resort premises, especially during peak tourist seasons. 

One of the most modern security risks for businesses is tailgating, which occurs when an unauthorized person sneaks behind an authorized person into restricted resort areas. This can be difficult to control sometimes, so it’s important to implement proper security measures, such as ID checks, security guards, and controlled access points, to ensure that only authorized guests are allowed entry to the resort.

Theft and Burglary

Resorts often attract tourists who carry valuable items such as cash, jewelry, and electronic devices, which makes them potential targets for thieves and burglars. 

One way to prevent this is by controlling who enters and exits the area with ID cards. If you have loyal guests that frequently visit your resort, you can implement an ID card system and provide them with membership cards to grant easy access to the area. This will help you track who is on premises and limit the number of people that can enter the area. 

It is equally important to monitor access points, install surveillance cameras, and implement effective security protocols to prevent thefts. Focusing on boosting resort security is an integral component of customer service, which is essential for the hospitality industry. 

Enhancing Resort Security

In an increasingly complex security landscape, resorts must proactively adapt to modern security risks for businesses. Implementing ID cards as part of your security infrastructure can significantly enhance resort security. 

At Avon Security Products, we’re here to assist you in selecting and implementing the right security solutions to meet your unique needs. Contact us today and let our security product experts guide you toward a safer resort environment.  

Streamline the Visitor Check-In Process with ID Cards

Man holding a folder about to open building door

Keeping track of who is entering and leaving your building is virtual for all commercial properties. Visitor check-ins have traditionally been a manual process that involves signing a paper register, providing a form of identification, and waiting for security personnel to verify the visitor’s credentials. However, this process can be time-consuming and inefficient, leading to long wait times and potential security risks. 

If the entrance is left unsupervised, some visitors may use the pen-and-paper sign-in system, resulting in sloppy writing, damage to the paper, or loss of the document with the details.

Some visitors may also consider this the opportunity to manipulate and disguise their information or enter without signing in, making the building vulnerable to security threats. 

Implementing an effective ID card system can reduce the risks associated with a pen-and-paper sign-in system and allow you to secure your building. Learn how ID cards can streamline the visitor check-in process below.

Faster Check-in

The manual process of signing into a commercial building can be time-consuming, requiring you to sign your name, input your details, and wait for the security personnel to verify the information. People usually visit commercial buildings with a purpose and have time constraints. The manual process can slow them down and disrupt their day. With ID cards, visitors can quickly provide their identification, and the security personnel can quickly verify the visitor’s credentials.

At Avon Security Products, we aim to provide clients with the best security products that streamline the visitor check-in process while enhancing office security. We offer a wide range of visitor products, such as printable visitor pass rolls, TEMPBadge expiring or non-expiring badges, visitor sticker books, and visitor system hardware. Contact our ID card experts to find the ideal product for your facility based on your unique needs.

Improved Security

One of the most incredible benefits of an ID card system is its contribution to the safety and security of everyone in the building. Providing visitors with ID cards makes it easy to identify who is authorized to be in the building and who is not. This can help prevent unauthorized access to the building, ensuring only authorized personnel are allowed in. Sometimes, if unauthorized individuals enter the building and connect to the Wi-Fi, intellectual property and trade secrets could be compromised, which is another reason to control access to the building.

Explore the different products we offer and choose an ID card system based on your facility type, size, and level of security needed. For example, you can need a more advanced system to increase school campus security as kids are involved. The last thing parents would want is to drop their kids off at a campus where visitor access isn’t adequately controlled. With an efficient ID card system, authorities can identify who is authorized to enter the building and ensure that individuals with visitor badges pick up kids.

Options to Customize

Our ID cards can be customized to include specific information about the visitor, such as the visit’s purpose and the meeting’s location. This can improve visitor and host communication and make the check-in process more efficient.

You can also include additional safety features, such as magnetic stripes, holographic prints, and watermarks, to enhance security and reduce the risk of visitor card duplication. 

Easy to Manage

Managing visitor information is much easier with an efficient ID card system. The data can be stored in a database, making tracking visitors and their movements throughout the building easy. This can improve overall security and ensure the building is safe for everyone.

You can also offer visitor lanyards to individuals with ID cards to ensure all staff know when an authorized individual is in the building. This also reduces the risk of unauthorized entries, as staff members will know that an individual without a visitor lanyard may not have been authorized to enter. 

ID cards can streamline the visitor check-in process and improve security. By providing visitors with ID cards, the check-in process can be faster and more efficient, improving the overall visitor experience.

ID Card Printer Maintenance: Tips to Keep Your Machine Running Smoothly

Repairing an ID card printer in the office

ID cards play a critical role in keeping your organization safe, and creating or maintaining ID cards will be challenging without an efficient printer. Whether you are printing membership cards, employee badges, or student IDs, keeping your ID card printer in excellent working condition is crucial. Proper maintenance is necessary to ensure your printer works smoothly and produces high-quality prints consistently. 

At Avon Security Products, our expert technical support teams have worked with thousands of clients all over Canada to help maintain and repair ID card printers. Reach out to our helpful team to troubleshoot or fix your printer, and consider the following tips to keep your machine running smoothly.

Clean the Printer Regularly

Keeping your printer clean is the first step towards its maintenance, as regular cleanings will extend your printer’s lifespan. The printer’s rollers, print head, and card path accumulate dust and debris over time, affecting the print quality and damaging the printer. Keeping the moving parts clean is also important to avoid ribbon breakage.

When you buy ID card printers from Avon Security Products, we offer continuous support to help you maintain your printer. However, a lack of effort in the cleaning process can damage your printer sooner. So, it’s important to regularly clean your printer to ensure your printer warranty stays valid. You can use a lint-free cloth or a card cleaner to clean the rollers and print heads. 

Use High-Quality Cards

Not all paper is created equal, so the paper you use in the printer for your ID cards will affect its quality. It can also be helpful to compare technologies for printing applications, as this can also affect the quality of cards.

Using low-quality cards can damage your printer’s print head and rollers, leading to costly repairs. Always use high-quality cards designed for your printer model, as cheap cards can cause card jams and create problems in the printer’s operation.

Store Cards Properly

The place you store your cards can also impact the longevity of your ID cards. Cards should be stored in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight. If the cards are exposed to extreme temperatures or humidity, they may not work correctly, and the printer could jam or malfunction. Before loading cards into the printer, ensure they are clean, dry, and free of dust or debris.

Keep Firmware and Drivers Updated

Firmware and driver updates may improve the printer’s performance and fix any known issues. You can check our website regularly for updates and follow the instructions to update the firmware and drivers. 

Our expert team also offers different levels of support for repairing ID printers to ensure all our clients have the resources they need to keep their printers running smoothly.

Replace Consumables Regularly

Regularly replacing consumables like ribbons and cleaning rollers is essential for the printer’s smooth operation. Neglecting to replace consumables can lead to poor print quality, printer damage, or even card jams. Refer to the printer manual for recommended replacement intervals.

Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the smooth operation of your ID card printer. Follow the tips above to keep your ID card printer in good condition, producing high-quality prints consistently.

Security Tools That Every Journalist Should Have

Close up on journalists taking an interview of a man

Journalists deal with sensitive information daily, especially when they interview a source. Under the Code of Ethics, journalists must strive to act with integrity by seeking truth and reporting it, minimizing harm, acting independently, and being accountable and transparent. While performing their key tasks, journalists store data on notebooks, phones, cameras, or audio recorders, so they must prioritize security.

For journalists to maintain safety, they must utilize the different security tools available today. One of the most effective systems is the photo ID products offered by Avon Security Products. Our photo ID products are specially created to enhance workplace security; journalists can benefit significantly from them. Learn more about the different security tools that every journalist should have below. 

Encryption Software

Journalists may communicate online with their sources, colleagues, and managers, so they must use encryption software to protect their communication and data. Encryption software protects confidential information to improve the security of communication between applications and servers. When your data is encrypted with software, unauthorized individuals cannot read it even if they hack into it. Some examples of encryption software include Signal, PGP, and VeraCrypt.

Photo ID Cards

As mentioned earlier, photo ID cards are one of the best security elements for journalists. It allows individuals and organizations to identify journalists and prevent people pretending to be journalists from accessing certain information or entering a space. All media outlets must provide an efficient photo ID card for every journalist as it will help them build relationships with sources and reduce the risk of unauthorized entry to their workplace.

In addition to ID cards, you can provide breakaway lanyards to your organization’s journalists to help them keep their ID cards secure. This is particularly helpful for journalists as they are always on the go, especially when they must find a story or interview people. It also helps them look credible to potential sources and other organizations the journalist may need to communicate within the reporting process. 

Badge Holders 

Badge holders are of valuable assistance to many journalists, as it allows them to carry their ID cards everywhere. Like breakaway lanyards, badge holders reduce the risk of losing the card and allow journalists to present the card when required in the reporting process.

Using a badge holder is a practical and professional way for journalists to ensure they are easily identifiable, protected, and can access the areas they need to do their job. Badge holders make it easy for others to identify a journalist in a crowded or busy area. By displaying a press badge, journalists can quickly communicate their credentials to those around them, making it easier for them to do their job. 

It also enhances professionalism and protects the press badge from damage, wear and tear, and accidental loss. A badge holder can also help prevent the badge from being stolen or misplaced, which can be a significant problem for journalists working in busy and chaotic environments.

Journalists and media outlets need to assess their security needs and choose the most appropriate tools for their work. Consult our security experts to determine which security tools you can benefit from as a journalist.