Is a Fargo Printer Better Than an Evolis Printer?

Posted by on October 30, 2010 · 4 Comments 

It can be difficult to compare specific brands of ID card printers, especially when you are trying to compare two major brands.  For example, comparing a Fargo printer and Evolis printer can seem like a tough proposition.  With so many new developments within the industry, increased price-based competition, and variety of solutions available, the differences can seem minimal.  However, there are still some key indicators that you can use to choose which printer is right for.

The first thing that you need to look at is the features that are offered.  While there are comparable models between all major brands, there are also some differences.  A Fargo printer will often take up less space and be a little less expensive than a similar Evolis printer.  However, when trying to compare models, the features are often different.  This is primarily because Fargo offers a larger number of printers to choose from.  That means that they may have two or three models that are comparable to a single Evolis model.  With this is mind, it is important to focus first on the features that you need.  By doing this, you will be able to choose a printer that is designed for your specific type of situation rather than a one-size-fits-all solution that will likely not have everything that you need.

The next thing to look at is overall cost.  In many cases, a Fargo printer will slightly less expensive than a similar Evolis printer.  However, you run into the same issue that you see when comparing features.  There are going to be several Fargo products that fit within a specific price-point, whereas there will likely only be one Evolis product in this range.  Additionally, because there are more options from Fargo, there is a higher chance that you will get certain accessories that you need, such as holographic printer ribbon included with your purchase.  When looking at total cost, you should also consider how much maintenance, additional products (such as the ID card), and other variables can affect your long term expenses.  Warranties are also something to keep in mind when comparing these two brands as well.

Finally, you should look at customer service/support.  When it comes to support, a Fargo printer may carry a slight edge.  This is because HID, the creator of the Fargo line of printers, has a separate website dedicated solely to customer support.  While this is not to say that Evolis offers little support, because they do seem to have a solid track record of keeping their customers satisfied.  However, if you do have a problem, there is a good chance that HID will be able to respond a little quicker.

When it comes to comparing a Fargo printer and Evolis printer, the final decision will often be based upon your specific needs rather than solely on which brand is superior.  Both offer products with a variety of features and at a variety of different prices points.  If customer support is you number one concern, then Fargo might carry the edge, although it should be considered a slim one.  In making your final decision, it is almost entirely dependent on your needs because both brands seem to offer excellent products.

Filed under Badge Attachment, Badge Holder, badge printer, cards printers, Clear Badge Holder, Evolis Printer, photo id printer · Tagged with

What is the Best Way to Purchase ID Card Software?

Posted by on October 27, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

When it comes to purchasing ID card software there are a variety of different avenues that you can choose from.  Depending on where you are at in your purchasing process, one option tends to stick out as the best option.  The three most basic options are purchasing a complete printing system, purchasing a brand specific software, or purchase “universal” software.  All of these options have specific benefits and drawbacks depending on your current situation.  Here is a closer look at all three options and what they have to offer.

The most common route that many businesses take is to simply purchase an entire printing package.  This will include not only ID card software, but also a printer, camera, cables, and some accessories.  This is ideal solution if you currently don’t have anything that you need to get going.  Not only to get everything all at once, but it is often much more inexpensive than purchasing everything separately.  Plus, you don’t have to worry about software compatibility.  For example, if you purchase a Zebra printer package, then you know that everything will easily integrate together seamlessly  The only potential drawback is if you need to upgrade a certain item.  While substitutions can sometimes be made, it isn’t always an option.

The next option is to purchase ID card software based upon your specific brand of printer.  For example, if you have a Zebra printer, then you would choose software designed by the same company.  The biggest benefit of choosing this option is that you know that you won’t have any problems integrating the software with your printer.  Another benefit is that brand-specific software will often work with all of the printers made by that brand.  This is particularly useful if you will be using the same software in multiple locations or having multiple projects running on multiple printers simultaneously.  A final advantage is that the software will be designed to communicate directly with the card printer, which means that you won’t have to deal with the middleman (the Windows or Mac general printing prompts).

The final option is choose a universal ID card software.  This is software that has been designed by a third party and has the ability to communicate with a wide variety of printers directly.  The biggest potential benefit is that third party software will sometimes be more inexpensive.  Another potential benefit is that the software will likely have a lot more options.  However, if your printer does not have the ability to do something, such as print on both sides, then having software that allows you to create dual sided cards is fairly useless.  The same is true with other features as well.  The biggest potential problem is integration.  While most universal software should quickly integrate with most major printer brands, it isn’t a guarantee.  However, the customer support for the software will normally walk you through any additional steps that you need to take.  While this may be a hassle, it can pay off in the long run.

As you can see, each option has specific benefits and drawbacks that you should consider when purchasing ID card software.  If you don’t have anything, then a full printing package will normally be your best choice.  However, if you already a specific printer, such a Zebra printer, then you will likely get the most utility out of either a brand specific or universal software instead of a full package.

Filed under Badge Attachment, Badge Holder, badge printer, cards printers, Clear Badge Holder, Evolis Printer, photo id printer · Tagged with

Wear Your ID Badge with a Clear Badge Holder

Posted by on August 23, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

ID card software and badge printers have been purchased for your business.  Employee ID cards are about ready to be implemented in your organization.  The card may just be for identification purposes.  It may be to authorize you to access a secure area within your organization.  Maybe you will be using the ID card for payroll reasons.  Debit card functions may also be authorized through the card.

The implementation of the badge system can be a positive experience for management and employees.  The organization of the badge making, badge issue and the security procedures that are put in place to actually use the badges will help to determine the acceptance of a badge making system.

To assist in helping employees approve of the ID card making, let your employees know when employee pictures will be taken.  Take time in taking the photos so that they feel a good image will be printed on the card.

Another good hint to help employees accept the ID badges is to have identification card procedures thought through prior to sharing badge implementation information with your staff.  Maybe your employees will need to wear the badge at all times while on company premises.  If so, will they need to wear them in a certain way?  Will they need to wear a uniform badge holder? Will it be a clear badge holder?  Will it be colorful?

There are many badge holder options available for different types of badge wearing.  Following are some colorful and clear badge holders to consider purchasing for your employees.

  • Clear Vinyl Badge Holder – This holder is most popular for business offices as the holder is flexible and affordable.  The holder provides protection for the badge and comes in either a vertical or horizontal style.  The badge holder is secured to clothing with a clip or a lanyard.
  • Color Coded Badge Holder – The color coded vinyl badge holder allows color coded groups so that you can quickly determine who is to be where at an event.  Used in meetings, schools, trade shows, conventions and other venues, the badge holder allows specific entry and other easy identification throughout the event.
  • Credential Wallet Holders – This wallet like holder is an excelled choice for some employees as it allows the card holder to display the ID and a place to carry pens, change and important small items.  Various wallet holders are used by many occupations. They are commonly worn by teachers.
  • Arm Band Badge Holders – These holders are designed for cards used in busy, physical jobs.  Holding the ID badge away from the neck and keeping it secure, the ID badge is found secure in a plastic pouch carried on the arm attached with Velcro.  Allowing easy release by the card holder, these holders are often used at airports and construction sites.

Other specialized badge holders work well for different circumstances.  Holders, such as hard hat badge holders, are used in construction work.

At times, it is important to have each employee where a uniform badge holder.  Other businesses may find that it is acceptable for each card holder to choose from a number of different badge attachment options.

Filed under Badge Holder, Clear Badge Holder · Tagged with , , ,

Colorful and Clear Badge Holder Options

Posted by on August 9, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

It is true more today than ever before that employees in organizations are required to wear identification badges while on premises at work or at their volunteer organization.  This requirement is facilitated by badge holders that assist in displaying the badge in an easy, convenient manner all day long.  Some badge holder options are obvious as they are found holding badges in a plainly visible spot while other badge holders are not so obvious.  They may be clear badge holder options or may be placed in a less obvious place such as a belt loop or briefcase strap.

Many organizations require that a badge be displayed while on duty.  Reasons for this are many and they vary, but some common reasons are popular.  Many employees work with the public.  The ID badge serves as authorization that the wearer does indeed work for the company.  The employee name is often printed on the card in large print so that it is easy for the customer, or coworker, to know the knowledgeable expert by name.

Another reason for wearing badges is to speed up entrances and exits at the workplace.  If a security officer authorizes entrance to a secured building, the line can get long if people aren’t wearing their badge.  Looking at the last minute in the bottom of a purse, briefcase or wallet can be time consuming.

There is a wide variety of badge holders on the market today.  The most common holder is the standard badge clip.  This is a strap that has a metal clip on one end.  The strap runs through the hole in the identification card and snaps in place.  The clip is popular and used by the majority of badge wearers.

Badge reels are also common badge holders.  These are similar to the strap clip in that they have the strap that runs through the card with the snap to hold it together.  The metal clip is replaced by a long nylon or wire that winds up into a plastic reel.  When the card is pulled, the reel releases the cord and the identification card can be used to log in or for another use.  When the card is not needed any more, the cord is retracted back into the reel and the identification card is held secure until needed again.

Special badge holders are available for environments that are high security or that are in a rough environment.  Heavy duty badge reels provide extra longevity as compared to the standard badge reel.  Armband holders are used for people who need to use both arms in a physical work environment such as construction or airport baggage handling.  Some construction workers like the hard hat badge holders that can attach securely to the construction hat.  They make it easy for the badge to be displayed in a secure, safe way.

Some badge holders are perfect for organizations that let the card holder choose their own attachment.  The beaded lanyard is a perfect example of a holder that will allow an expression of flair and style.

If your company has an id badge printer or badge printers, you will most likely become familiar with wearing an identification card while at work. Browsing online for various holders will help you find the best choice for your identification badge holder.

Filed under Badge Holder, Clear Badge Holder · Tagged with , , ,

Secure your ID Badge with Badge Holders and a Magicard Printer

Posted by on July 20, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

When creating your id badges for your school, business or organization, it is important to think about color, design and other layout elements. Another badge issue to consider is the important need for security in your facility. Many badges main purpose is to increase the security level of your organization. When printing an id badge with a basic ID cards printer, it is fairly easy to duplicate the badge or make a badge with almost identical similarities by anyone with access to ID badge printers. With a copy of your current authorized card and an electronic version of the logos on the badge, the badge can be easily duplicated in the ID card software attached to any ID card printer available.

There are a number of ways to increase the security of your identification badges. Solutions that hinder the success of duplicating and tampering are found in most professional grade printers and even some entry level printers. The hologram is a common addition to a standard card as well as double photos, microtext, changes in font sizes, misspellings and more.

Magicard printer systems have an option to consider that will provide a solution for some organizations. The Magicard printer contains a HoloKote and HoloPatch option that provides visible security on ID badges. The HoloKote is an anti-counterfeiting watermark. The watermark is visible with then card is viewed at an angle and can be seen across the entire surface of the plastic card surface. The HoloKote image is one of the standard or a custom image that is provided on the, normally clear, overlay that covers the printed surface of the PVC card.

After the colored image is completed with the color ribbon panels of the printer ribbons, the overlay is added. The layer protects the card from possible scratching and fading. At the time of printing, the patented Magicard HoloKote pattern is frosted into the overlay. There is no additional charge to use the standard patterns in the overlay. The printer provides this security overlay option for image grade plastic cards that are used in the Magicard Printer

HoloPatch is a security mark in the card that is a distance visible security feature. The mark can be viewed from 6 feet away from the card. With that capability it is easier for security officers to assist in verifying the authenticity of the card. This security feature is printed using a special card stock that is available by Magicard.

The Magicard Rio 2e printer contains the patented HoloKote system that protects cards from being cloned. The HoloKote pattern can be customized to your organization with the text and logo that meets your organizational requirements. If you need a dual sided printer with these features, look at the Tango 2e that provides the same custom available features as the Rio 2e with dual sided printing capabilities.

Once the badge is printed, appropriate badge holders can be selected from your ID card integrator to complete the finished look for your Magicard printed badges.

Filed under Badge Holder · Tagged with , , , ,

Types of Badge Holders

Posted by on July 19, 2010 · Leave a Comment 

There are a number of different badge holders in the market that are perfect for wearing printed custom plastic ID cards. The holders protect the badge and allow it to remain visible when needed. Some badge holders allow the badge to hang around the neck while other badges clip to clothing, belt or pocket. Newer clamps attach the badge securely for different wearing options.

If your company has a badge printer, such as a Zebra Card printer and produces their badges in house, they may have a specific type of badge holder that they require their employees and members to wear with their badge. Other companies with photo ID systems do not have a standard badge attachment and card holders are free to select a holder that works for their individual needs.

Vinyl badge holders are popular holders that protect printed cards from wear and tear. The holders normally have a slot to attach to the strap clip or lanyard. Similar to the vinyl badge holders are rigid plastic badge holders that protect an access control card or smart card during the working hours.

Economy badge holders are excellent open faced badge holders that will protect your identification card from damage because of bending. These holders are quite popular with elementary schools as they keep children from bending cards and also from the younger ones who chose to chew on the card edges.

Convention badge holders are very economical, although they are used for only a brief time. Made of extremely thin plastic, the holder will display a printed paper badge. This holder is perfect for tradeshows and seminars where a large quantity of badges are needed on a temporary basis.

Magnetic badge holders are nifty ID card attachments as they do not require pins or clips. The magnet attachment does the job of holding your badge in place by attaching magnet to magnet. The badge holder is held in place by wearing the magnet ends over a belt, pocket or other part of clothing. There are both vertical and horizontal options in magnetic badge holders.

Zipper badge holders are great for those who work outdoors and in dirt or wet environments. The badge holder securely holds the credential in a sealed pouch so that it is protected from rain, wind, dirt and other elements. The holder has a slot at the top for allowing a badge clip or other holder to attach to clothing.

Armband holders are popular with baggage handlers and construction workers. The holder provides a secure place for the badge to be displayed while the card holder is doing physical work requiring both hands. The badge holder is transparent and holds the badge with a Velcro strap to make sure that the badge is held securely on the arm.

Lanyards are another attachment that are popular. Standard lanyards are nylon neckcords that come in various colors and widths. There are a number of other types of lanyards such as beaded lanyards and custom lanyards that have a company or brand logo on them.

The integration of photo id systems in small to medium businesses and organizations is moving at a more rapid rate than ever before. Badges are either carried or worn. If worn, a badge holder will help display it correctly when worn.

Filed under Badge Holder · Tagged with , , , ,