Companies use clamshell proximity cards for a variety of purposes. Their shell construction is perfect for harsh environments, making them highly durable, and they're also convenient, affordable, and reliable. More importantly, companies turn to clamshell proximity cards because they work well with diverse applications. They provide access control, PC login, biometric authentication, time and attendance, cashless vending, public transportation, airline ticketing, customer loyalty programs, and more.
The drawback to clamshell proximity cards is they're too thick to feed through printers, so you can't personalize them with photographs and other information. So, what can you do when you need a photo ID as part of your card program?
That's when you need adhesive-backed ID cards.
What is an adhesive-backed ID card?
Adhesive-backed ID cards are plastic cards like regular ID cards but have an adhesive backing. You can print these cards on your ID card printer with all the personal information you need on an ID card. Then simply peel off the adhesive backing and stick it your clamshell card.
Instead of employees carrying both a clamshell proximity card and an ID card, you can combine them into a single card with an adhesive-backed ID card.
Tips to using adhesive-backed ID cards
These ID cards come in two sizes: CR79 and CR80. CR79 sized adhesive-backed cards work great with clamshell proximity cards because once adhered, they fit the card's surface perfectly and don't leave sticky edges. But, CR79 adhesive-backed cards are a specialized size that doesn't work with all printers. Before you choose a CR79 card, check your printer's specifications to make sure it will print on this size. For example, most Fargo and HID Global printers will print on CR79 adhesive-backed cards.
Adhesive-backed cards come with either a paper back or a Mylar one. Even though you throw the backing away after printing, some printers work better with one than the other. Paper-backed cards are less expensive but since they're thinner, they can cause quality issues or jam more easily in your printer. Mylar-backed, on the other hand, are less flexible and cause fewer problems than paper. They flow better over the rollers, causing fewer card jams. Again, check your printer's specifications to see if it requires Mylar- or paper-backed adhesive cards. For example, Fargo, HID Global, and Evolis printers all work better with Mylar-backed cards.
An important tip is to avoid adhesive-backed ID cards if you have a reverse transfer style printer or are using lamination.
Finally, if your clamshell proximity card is slot punched, you'll need a slot puncher to create a matching hole in your adhesive-backed card before you stick it to your clamshell card. Make sure you slot punch after you've printed the adhesive-backed card so you don't damage your printer's printhead.
Final thoughts
Adhesive-backed ID cards offer even more functionality to your legacy clamshell or technology cards. Since security is a top priority today, companies are using photo ID cards more often for quick and easy visual verification that someone belongs. Don't invest in a more expensive card solution to create photo ID cards with technology like a clamshell. You can simply add a photo ID card to your current clamshell cards with an adhesive-backed ID card. This is particularly a more cost-effective solution for companies with high turnover rates.
If you're not sure what size adhesive-backed card to buy or whether you need a paper- or Mylar-backed model,call Idesco today at 212-889-2530. Our experienced ID Experts will make sure you get exactly what you need at the best price anywhere—guaranteed.