What You Need to Know BEFORE Buying an ID Card Printer

Just like you would research different car models to compare features and benefits, research ID card printers before investing in new equipment. At a minimum, you need to know the following terms and their impact on your decision BEFORE talking to a salesperson.

Access control

Your photo ID cards can do double duty by controlling access to restricted areas. Smart cards and proximity cards can grant or deny access to any door with a card reader. No need for additional security.

Visual identification

Do you need to make sure the cardholder is the person shown on your card? Photographs of employees, students, contractors, and others help your security staff visually make sure everyone belongs on site. Visual identification also helps customers identify employees who can help them.

Single-sided vs. Double-sided

Every ID card and badge has two sides. Basic photo ID cards needed for visual identification might only need a picture and employee name and title printed on the front. You might need additional information on the back of your cards, which requires a double-sided printer. You shouldn't buy a single-sided printer, expecting it to print on both sides.

Lamination

Do you need to add an extra layer of security like a holographic laminate or do you need extra protection for your ID cards to last longer? Heat, dirt/debris, sunlight, and other environmental factors like swiping cards through readers frequently during the day reduce the lifespan of ID badges. Lamination extends a card's life significantly and can make them virtually tamper-proof, but you must purchase a lamination module on the front end which is an additional cost.

Card volume

How many ID cards or badges do you need to print each month or year? This affects the model of the printer you choose because manufacturers design ID card printers for either high volume or low volume. For example, if you're a local swimming pool that sells memberships to residents, you may only need to print 200 cards per year, usually at the beginning of your season. An enterprise that deals with high turnover in certain employee areas may need to print several hundred cards per month. Another situation is a college or university printing incoming Freshmen student ID cards during a single week. A printer designed for high volume can produce hundreds of cards a minute, making orientation smoother. How many cards you need to print monthly or annually affects the model printer you choose.

Direct-to-card vs. Retransfer printers

One of the confusing aspects of choosing an ID card printer is the two printing methods involved. Understanding the difference between them helps you make smart business decisions now and for your card needs in the future. For more detailed information, read our post on ["What's the difference between a direct-to-card and retransfer ID card printer?"] (LINK to blog post). The most important thing to note is if you want your card's images/text to print from edge-to-edge without a border, you need a retransfer printer.

Encoding options

You can encode your ID cards and badges with technology options that skyrocket them from mere photo IDs to a multi-access resource for cardholders. For example, you can add payment encoding options like a magnetic stripe for employees or students to purchase items in the cafeteria. Or you can use bar codes for employees or students to check out resources like library books or electronic equipment. Encoding takes your ID card from a basic to a powerhouse of options that help you track access, attendance, and more and help make your cardholders' lives easier with a single card. But you'll need modules for encoding.

Printer dimensions

Do you have limited space for an ID card printing program? The dimensions of the printer would make a difference. Consider how the more modules you add on like dual-sided printing or encoding, the larger the footprint of your ID card printer. Other features that increase your printer dimensions are high volume printers that need large hoppers for batch printing and lamination modules.

Printer connectivity

Do you need your ID card printer to connect to your company's network so multiple users can print cards? If so, you need a printer with an ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. Most printers have a single connection using an USB cable to connect the printer to a laptop or desktop.

Field upgrades

This is an option some companies overlook that could lead to savings in the future when your ID card program evolves. Some manufacturer's models have field upgradable add-ons that you can insert into your ID card printer at your location. For example, models let you upgrade from a single-sided to a double-sided printer or add on encoding options or a laminating module in the future. If you expect your ID card solution to grow in the future, looking for field upgrade models.

Manufacturer/vendor warranties and support plans

A printer's warranty is an important consideration. Most manufacturers cover their models for at least a year, if not more. Look for a vendor who can extend manufacturers' warranties and offer a loaner while your printer is being serviced.

Final thoughts

We hope this simple glossary of terms and considerations help you have a productive discussion with ID card printer vendors. When you know what to talk about, you'll have a more informative conversation—and make better decisions.

The ID Experts at Idesco walk you through all the options and considerations for choosing an ID card printing solution that meets your needs today and in the future. Even if you don't have time for researching, we'll make sure you understand each option and only choose what you need. Call an Idesco ID Expert today at 212-889-2530.