ID Card Printers utilize dye-sublimiation technology which utilize a color or monochrome ribbon rather then ink or toner. A ribbon is not included with the printer due to range of options available depending on the printer application. The most common ribbon is the full color (YMCKO) ribbon, used for printing full color on the front and/or back of cards. Each ribbon prints a fixed number of prints so you always know how many cards you can print per ribbon (if printing dual-sided cards, one print is required for each side of the card).

There are also a variety of specialty ribbons that include additional or alternative panels to serve a specialized purpose. Each panel is designated by a single letter. For example, a YMCKO ribbon is made up of a Y (yellow), C (cyan), M (magenta), K (black resin), and an O (overlay or topcoat) panel. Other ribbons may include just a single panel (refered to as monochrome ribbons) such as a single K (black) panel. These ribbons are popular when printing black text or a barcode onto a pre-printed card (such as a name onto a membership card). Ribbons also may include specialty panels such as F or UV panels that print a pattern that fluoresces under ultra-violet light for added security (Note: This ribbon type is only available with select printers).

Common types of ribbons and their common uses include:
-YMCKO - Full color ribbon: Commonly used for printing full color cards (single or dual-sided)
-YMCKOK - Full color ribbon with additional black panel: For printing dual-sided cards with a full color front and black on backside. More economical then using a full color ribbon for both sides if only black is required.
-Monochrome Ribbons - Only print a single color: Commonly used when printing a single color on a pre-printed card, for example printing a customer name on a pre-printed membership card.

Retransfer Film is required for retransfer printers. Retransfer printers use a unique process for printing cards. When a retransfer printer prints an image, first it prints the image to the underside of the retransfer film. After this, the retransfer film is applied to the surface of the card, effectively “sandwiching” the image between the card and the film. This process not only creates a more durable card, but allows for higher quality true edge-to-edge printing. It is also a better process for printing cards with uneven surfaces (like smart card or orther technology cards) because the delicate printhead doesn't need to come into direct contact with the card itself.

Laminating printers require a lamination ribbon, which provides the protective material that is adhered to the card.  The most popular form of laminate is a patch laminate.  Laminates come in a variety of thicknesses, with thicker laminates offering more protection from the elements.  All laminates offer an increased level of security by protecting the card from tampering, but for an even more advanced level of security holographic laminates are available.  Holographic laminates feature a holographic image embedded inside of the laminate which is almost impossible to forge or duplicate.

Blank cards are required for your printer. Cards are available in two types of material, PVC & PVC-PET Composite). PVC cards are suitable for standard direct-to-card printers without lamination. Due to the increased heat required in retransfer printers & laminating printers, composite PVC-PET cards are required to prevent warping when used in those types of printers. Each card type is available in a variety of forms included standard blank CR8030 cards, as well as those that include magnetic stripe or proximity & RFID technology.

Extend the life of your ID card printer and maintain optimal print quality by adding a cleaning kit to your bundle. ID card printers utilize printheads that operate at very tight tolerances. Dirt & other debris can damage the sensitive (and expensive) printheads, as well as cause imperfections in your prints. Cleaning products are available in a variety of types (e.g., cleaning cards, cleaning rollers, swabs, and cleaning pens). ID card printer cleaning products provide an affordable way to protect your investment and achieve optimal results. Printer cleaning is very easy to do & only takes a minute or two. Most printer manufacturers recommend cleaning your printer with every ribbon change.

Capture uniform, professional-looking ID photos for your ID cards by adding a camera, tripod, and/or backdrop to your printer bundle. TWAIN-compliant cameras allow you to instantly and efficiently view and edit ID photos within your ID card software. Our extensive lineup of cameras offer features such as high-resolution image capture, live image preview, auto zoom, face recognition, synchronized LED flash, and more.