Finding the right supplies will not only help keep your ID card printer solution running, but will also help extend its life—if you buy the right supplies.
It's often hard to overlook generic brand printer supplies that cost less than manufacturer brand ones. But this is a short-sighted view that can cost you much more in the long run. Manufacturers designed your printer to work specifically with its brand ribbons, laminates, cleaning kits, and more. When you use genuine manufacturer-recommended supplies and parts, you increase your printer's lifespan. Specifically designed supplies for your printer make and model help it operate efficiently and effectively, reducing the wear and tear that can cause malfunctions and breakdowns.
While it's easy to select supplies from your printer's manufacturer, that doesn't mean knowing exactly what to buy is easy. For example, most manufacturers make more than one ribbon that will work with your printer.
Let's look at differences in ID card printer supplies and what you need to know about each.
Printer ribbon
Are you printing in monochrome or full color? Are you printing color images on the front and black text on the back? Do you want to print an overlay or does your ID card printer have a laminating module?
So many "ifs" that can derail your system. The more you know about your ID cards up front, the easier it will be to choose the right supplies.
In case you don't know, ribbons come with panels, depending on what and where you're printing. Here's what each panel means.
- Y is for yellow print
- M is Magenta or red
- C is for Cyan or blue print
- K is Black (true black not black from mixing YMC colors together)
- O is a clear overlay, similar to laminating that protects your cards from wear and tear
Where it gets dicey is understanding the combinations to use. For example, if you're printing color on both sides of your ID cards, you'll likely choose a YMCKO ribbon.
But if you're printing color on the front and only black text on the back, you must choose a YMCKOK ribbon, which won't work if you're printing a single- or double-sided color card.
And then there are half panel ribbons that use less ribbon because they print only on half the card, so they cost less. This works for some but not everyone.
Your best bet is to start with your card design and talk to an ID Card Expert who can help you determine exactly what manufacturer ribbon you need to produce the cards you want.
Cleaning kits
Cleaning your ID card printer will extend its life, so it's well worth the cost and the time to clean it regularly. Most manufacturers recommend that you clean your ID card printer every time you change the ribbon. And each manufacturer designs its cleaning kits specifically for the makes and models it produces.
You shouldn't use a Fargo cleaning kit on a Zebra printer. Consider how engineers designed your vehicle to run with certain manufacturer-approved parts. Any generic part you put on your car can void your warranty and result in irreplaceable damage. It's the same with ID card printers.
Using the manufacturer's cleaning kit means you'll be able to operate your ID card printer longer and with less downtime than if you used generic parts, supplies, and more. In the end, you'll save a lot of money in repairs and upkeep by using manufacturer recommended cleaning kits.
ID cards
Another way to extend your ID card printer's life is by using the right ID cards for your needs. For example, pre-punched ID cards, while handy for those producing employee cards, can damage your printer's printhead, resulting in a costly repair.
Uneven surfaces on cards cause damage, so it's best to find reputable cards with smooth surfaces and store then appropriately so they're not damaged before they ever get to your printer. Technology cards can have uneven surfaces that to microchips and antennae, but you can design your cards around these surfaces to save your ID card printer from damage.
Final thoughts
Finally, when thinking about the right card supplies to get, don't forget a dust cover for your printer. Another way to protect it so it lasts longer is to keep it covered when not in use. Dust, dirt, and debris can damage your ID card printer, so the more you can lessen your printer's exposure to each, the longer it will last.
If any of this sounds confusing, your ID Card Expert at Idesco is ready to help you figure it out. We're here to help you find the right supplies that will extend your ID card printer's life and help you create the best ID cards and badges possible.
You're not in this alone. Rely on our ID Card Experts to make the most of your ID card solution.