Reverse Transfer Printers Overview

Reverse transfer printers are some of the best ID card delivery systems on the market today. They combine high definition dye sublimation and resin ink printing with film transfer application for a flawless result. While regular direct-to-card technology works for many basic print jobs, it can destroy delicate access/data devices such as proximity and smart chip cards. In contrast, reverse film printing applies the selected image to a transparent sheet of plastic. This is then expertly bonded to the card surface without causing any damage. Lamination can also be formatted to stop at the edge of exposed smart chips to give durability to the card without compromising the interface. Full bleed (edge-to-edge) printing at 300 dpi delivers crisp photo replication as well.

Superb image quality and sophisticated encoding options make this type of printer a favorite for government applications that require FIPS compliant hardware. New regulations regarding the security of photo IDs and advanced biometric data storage are easily met by installing and using a reverse transfer printer. Other industries are getting on board with this high-end technology since it is priced competitively. Most mid to large sized businesses can easily afford to upgrade to one of these models. Any corporation that is concerned with presenting a professional image will love the vibrant effect achieved using this printing method. The card options available for managing facility security and data transfer make these printers even more attractive.

Fargo HDP5000

This modular printer offers single and dual sided options for both printing and laminating. The smart screen LCD interface makes user operation intuitive for easy training. Cartridges snap in and out to make supply replacement simple as well. This model features both USB and Ethernet with an internal print server as standard on all machines. This allows the end user to choose local or networked printing options. Ribbon types include full color with an extra heat seal panel for non-standard card stock. Custom hologram laminates can also be created at the customer's request for added security. The unit itself is covered for two years and the printhead has a lifetime warranty.

Magicard Prima3

This printer is unique in its ability to handle card thicknesses of up to 80 mil. Printing speed is fast - between 30 and 40 seconds per card. Laminates can be added in the same pass as printing and encoding using the optional inline module. The manufacturer also offers UV ribbons. These are often used to add image features that cannot be seen by the casual observer but can easily be verified by security personnel. The UltraCoverPlus warranty for this machine is the best on the market - 3 years with loaner coverage included (for North America and EU countries).

Datacard RP90 Plus

The RP90 Plus is designed to save the end user money on consumables with its Intelligent Supplies Technology. OEM print cartridges track usage and provide automated color and intensity regulation. This model also configures printing and lamination to use landscape orientation (making the most of each ribbon). This unique feature doesn't interfere with template design options - IDs can still be created in portrait mode. The printer also has a reject slot to segregate any cards that fail to encode properly. This allows the administrator to catch errors before the devices are distributed to end users. One potential drawback is the limited warranty period - 12 months on both the machine and the printhead.