In today’s world, more and more companies and organizations are implementing policies that require employees to have official staff identification. This practice offers a wide range of benefits, such as enhancing security by identifying potential risks, preventing identity theft, simplifying the implementation of access levels, and easily distinguishing employees from customers.
While some businesses choose to outsource their ID card printing, this approach can come with significant drawbacks, including higher costs and longer turnaround times. By investing in an ID card printer, your organization can take advantage of numerous benefits that extend beyond just saving time and money. Let’s explore these advantages in more detail.
What Makes an ID Card Printer Different from a Regular Printer?
You might wonder how an ID card printer differs from a standard printer. While both types of printers transfer images and text onto a physical medium, an ID card printer is specifically designed to print on the hard plastic of ID cards instead of paper. Just like loading paper into a regular printer, blank ID cards are loaded into an ID card printer.
The processes may seem similar, but the methods for transferring ink are quite different. Regular printer ink won’t adhere to a plastic card—it would simply smear. ID card printers use specialized techniques like direct-to-card (retransfer) printing or thermal (sublimation) printing to bond ink to the plastic surface.
Direct-to-card printing works similarly to traditional printing but with ink that bonds to plastic, producing clear and durable images. For example, the Evolis Primacy 2 SE, Entrust Sigma ID3, FARGO DTC1500 SE, Matica MC2000, and IDP SOLID-310LE are excellent direct-to-card choices for employee ID printing, offering durability and high-quality photo identification. Reverse transfer printing is another common method, where the image is first printed onto a clear film, which is then overlaid onto the card. This method adds an extra layer of protection and results in sharper, more defined images. For example, the SwiftPro 300LE is an excellent choice for retransfer printing.
How Easy is it to Use an ID Card Printer?
Operating an ID card printer might seem intimidating, but many models are designed to be user-friendly. Most printers connect to your computer via USB, and the necessary ID card software can be easily installed.
This software ensures that the information and images being printed or encoded onto the ID card are accurate and properly sized. It facilitates seamless communication between your computer and the printer, allowing you to make any necessary adjustments with ease.
The Security Benefits of In-House Printing
One of the biggest advantages of using an ID card printer for employee identification is the enhanced security that comes with in-house printing. When you own an ID card printer, you have complete control over the printing process, which is especially important when dealing with sensitive information that may need to be stored on the cards.
By keeping the printing process in-house, you eliminate the risk of sensitive data being compromised by third parties or during transit. This added layer of security ensures that your organization’s information remains protected.
Beyond Photo IDs: Advanced Security Features for Employee ID Cards
While photo identification is a critical component of security, it’s not foolproof. To enhance security, many organizations opt for additional identification methods such as encoding information onto smart cards. Let’s explore some of these advanced security options that ID printers from IdentiSys can offer.
Smart Cards for Employee Identification
Smart cards, which are microchipped and encoded, are commonly used in businesses like financial institutions. These cards can function as both an ID card and a key to access buildings, computers, or secure areas.
Even if you don’t need a photo ID, smart cards are tamper-proof and can have their data rewritten if needed. This flexibility saves time and money, as you won’t need to reprint cards due to incorrect information—simply update the data as necessary.
Magnetic Stripes, Signatures, QR Codes, and Barcodes
Magnetic stripes can store essential employee information for identification and security clearance purposes. Signatures can be printed for additional verification, while barcodes and QR codes offer further customization. However, frequent use can wear down these features, making durable card stock and a reliable printer, like those from IdentiSys, crucial.
Take Control: Print Your Own Employee ID Cards
By investing in your own ID card printer, you can produce secure, high-quality, and personalized ID cards in-house. IdentiSys offers a wide range of ID card printers suitable for businesses of all sizes, ensuring you have the right solution whether you need a few cards or hundreds.
IdentiSys also provides ongoing support through tech assistance, helping you select the best printer and guiding you through the setup process. From selecting the perfect ID card printer to purchasing accessories, IdentiSys is here to support you every step of the way.
Ready to Enhance Your Security?
Take the next step in securing your business by contacting IdentiSys today. Our experts are ready to help you find the ideal ID card printer to meet your organization's specific needs. Reach out now to learn more about how we can assist in streamlining your ID card issuance process!