FAQ- Am I saving money with compatible card printer ribbons?

A current trend in the plastic card printing market is the use of compatible ribbons instead of genuine branded plastic card printer ribbons. These compatible ribbons are used in Evolis, Datacard, Zebra and Fargo machines and are advertised to save the client 25-60% in consumable costs. We have investigated this claim by interviewing several clients (and repairing their printers) and found that despite a slight decrease in ribbon costs, the end user is receiving less value and a more expensive cost per solution than when using original branded ribbons.

Here is what we found:

Reasons to Choose Original over "Compatible" for plastic card printer consumables

1. Voids Warranty
Whether your printer is Zebra, Evolis, EDIsecure, Datacard or Fargo brand, your warranty is voided the moment you use non branded (compatible) ribbon or plastic card. Take care to purchase your consumables from reputable companies- if the consumables are non-branded or compatible ribbons (even hiding in original boxes), your printer brand manufacturer will not fulfil your warranty.

2. Higher operating temp/faster print head blow out
Compatible ribbons require a higher operating temperature to print correctly. While it is possible to increase the heat settings in your printer drivers- the increase in temperature will effectively run your print head at a higher temperature and make it 'work harder' to sublimate your ink. This increased temperature puts strain on your print head and will ensure a shorter lifespan. Should you wish to keep the default settings asnd not increase your heat settings, the colours will be washed out and may graduate in colour intensity across the length of the card.

3. More Manufacturing Defects in Compatible Ribbons
Clients who use compatible ribbons are more likely to have a damaged print head from a manufacturing defect in the compatible ribbon. We have seen ribbons that are too narrow and do not stretch the full width of the card. Other ribbons have burrs or scratches in the film. In minor cases, the ink does not sumblimate into the plastic in those areas, causing a blotchy print, or, in more major cases, the burrs can scratch the printhead directly.


There is simply no value is saving a couple of Rands per ribbon if using a compatible ribbon will cost you thousands in printhead or driverboard replacements.

CardsPlus only sells genuine branded ribbons. We believe that they continue to extend more value to our clients than a compatible ribbon will. With so many companies getting burned from the increase in compatible plastic card printer consumables, CardsPlus is proud to take a stand against inferior products and misadvertising.

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FAQs- As a reseller, what questions should I ask to best determine what type of plastic card printer my client needs?

An excellent reseller is set on providing intelligent solutions to their client base.

Much like a doctor needs a thorough knowledge of the symptoms of illness and it's relationship to the body to diagnose an illness, resellers need a good understanding of their client's needs and the relationship of those needs to what the market offers.

We have compiled just three questions that will help you assess which plastic card printer will be best for your client.

1. What type of cards are you planning on producing?

Knowing the application for the machine will help you determine which level printer you need to focus on:

For instance if your client answers:

ID Cards with low security: You can start thinking about a simple direct-to-card printer might be suitable

Loyalty or Gift cards: you may need to ask if a printer with a magnetic encoder will be needed

RFID/Prox: You can recommend Retransfer printing as it is the only recommended method for desktop colour printing on smart cards.


2. What monthly volumes are you expecting?

The answer to this question would indicate which line of printer your client would need. Different card printer brands have different spans of use, but for EDIsecure, we judge that a DCP240+ or DCP340+ is perfect for small volumes ( up to 5000) while the DCP360 and XID 8300 is great for large volumes.

3. Budgetary Concerns?

There are two schools of thought in the finance of plastic card printing. One wants the cheapest cost per card. The other, wants the lowest cost for the solution.

There is a significant difference between a cost per card, and a cost per solution.

A cost per card is the simple calculation of ink+plastic=cost per card.

A cost per solution calculates the total inclusive cost of the solution. It includes the cost of the printer, the software, the consumables to print the cards, the ongoing maintence, the speed of the machine and the down time that the printer will require changing ribbons, mantaining the printer etc.

Finding out what your client needs for their budget will help you address the total solution (instead of just the cost per card) and save your client some serious money!


Still aren't sure which printer to ask for? CardsPlus offers free consultations on 086 16 CARDS (22737) or +27 (0)11 894 3914.

Do you think we we missed something important? Go ahead and comment below.

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June Special

Call us on 086 16 CARDS for more information!

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March Madness

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What you will need to start printing your own cards tomorrow

Are you ready to branch into printing your own cards, either as a side business or for your company?

We created a brief rundown of what you will need– besides a computer or laptop– to start printing your own plastic cards…

A reliable plastic card printer: There are a wide variety of plastic card printers that will suite a variety of needs from single sided printing to high security printing. We recommend EDIsecure for their durability and reliability.

Software: Connecting to a database gives you the freedom to let the printer print without stopping to browse for a photo. Pick Jolly Technologies IDFlow to get the most bang for your buck

Consumables: Don’t forget your ribbons with the ink ribbons and the plastic cards to print on!

That’s it! You are ready to print! Print on!

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Oh so many choices! But which is the best for YOU?!

With so many options available for plastic card printers, how would you know which direct to card single sided printer would suite your needs?

We’ve whipped up this friendly little chart for the major brands of single side direct-to-card printers . Have a look at which printer would be ideal for you! (Click here for a link to the insider Downloads page where you can access this PDF and more!)

Need more help deciding?

It’s no secret we favour the DCP240+ for it’s outstanding reliability , ease-of-use and support network. But we know that the DCP240+ doesn’t suite each and every requirement.

For a complimentary consultation pop us an email at info@cardsplus.co.za or call at 086 16 CARDS and receive personalised advice on which printer would be best for you!

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Securex- A great opportunity to see the best in action!

Residing in South Africa, we see that security is at forefront in any South African's mind. We're concerned with not just preventing crimes in ones home or business but crimes of fraud and corruption in corporations or even government institutions. With this in mind, plastic card security is crucial in any application - but even more so in credential management or Identification card programmes. Fraud of any sort completely undermines the control of the card.

Securex is an exhibition that focuses on security channels of all kinds, from access control to residential alarming systems. CardsPlus has taken this week to broadcast and demonstrate the high security features of XID retransfer printers at this show. Revealing hidden security features capable on these machines as well as the high print quality that allows for effective visual security features, the XID printers truly demonstrated the difference that 12 years of quality technology can make!

We still feel confident that EDIsecure's XID family of retransfer printers can simply not be beaten.

If you missed us at Securex and are interested in viewing the XID 8300 in action, please give us a call on 086 16 CARDS and book your appointment today!

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5 Reasons to Make the Switch to Retransfer Printing Right Now

Retransfer technology is all the rage right now and being marketed across the world as cutting edge print technology at it’s finest.

But, what are the actual differences between the direct-to-card Zebra, Evolis, Datacard, Fargo printers and Retransfer printers? And what actual benefits are there in switching to the finest print technology available?

Let’s have a look at the original retransfer brand of printers– the EDIsecure XID family.

1. Better Print Quality Imaging on the XID retransfer printers is comparable to offset press printed cards- Colours are brighter and crisper; lines are sharper and cleaner.

2. Off-the-edge Printing Direct-to-card printers all leave a faint line on one side of the card to protect the print head from damage. Yuck!

Retransfer print heads do not make contact with the card, allowing a fluid 'over-the-edge' print, even on the uneven edges of smart cards.

3. Lifetime Warranty on the Print head Only the XID printers offer you the assurance of
a lifetime warranty on the print head. No shady card count restrictions apply .

4. Completely Modular The XID printers are fully customisable, meaning you purchase only
what you need at this time with the option of adding modules (without requiring an upgrade) when your needs change. Why spend more when you don't have to ?

5. Affordability The XID printers give you true value for your money and the cost per card is comparable to direct to card printing!

Demonstrations are available if you would like to see the technology in action. Join the revolution and schedule your demonstration for an XID retransfer printer now.

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Client FAQ: Why does the Datacard SP35 look JUST like the EDIsecure DCP240+?

The SP35 and DCP240+ have similar bodies and look similar on the outside.

However, the two printer brands do not operate the same.

Why we prefer the DCP240+

• Advanced print driver gives the ability to enhance print graphic quality
• The powerful printer drivers have access to every parameter of the card printing job- so you can change any aspect in one central place
• Unmatched Graphic User Interface (GUI) ensures better colour matching from screen to print.
  

To quote a long term Datacard user, “The DCP240+ is like the SP35 except better!” What a great compliment!

Thanks for asking & Print on!

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July Special- Trading Up

Tired of flat washed out print imaging? Need that 'extra something' to launch your card printing into the next galaxy?

Trade in and Upgrade!

Upgrade your boring ol' Zebra, Evolis, Datacard and Fargo direct-to-card printing methods to gain the edge!

The XID retransfer printers ensure your cards boast brilliant lithography-like imaging with over the edge printing. The printer itself has a lifetime printhead warranty, and so much more!

In fact, if you trade in any direct-to-card printer, in any condition, you will receive over R10 000 off of any of the EDIsecure XID Retransfer Printers.

Why make the switch? Find out now.


Mention this special and you will receive over R10 000 off of any of the EDIsecure XID Retransfer Printers!

Call 086 16 CARDS (22737) now because this is only valid while stocks last!

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Making the Switch

This month, CardsPlus is offering you the opportunity to launch your card printing from the okay into the phenomenal with a trade in and upgrade special. Trade in your Zebra, Evolis, or Datacard printer for over R10 000 off the affordable line of XID Retransfer printers and gain the edge in card printing.

Plastic card printers like the Evolis Tattoo or Evolis Pebble; the Zebra P110i, P330i, or P430i; the Fargo C30 Persona or DTC550; the Datacard SP range and even the EDIsecure DCP range all print with a process termed "direct-to-card printing".

But, what are the actual differences between your direct-to-card Zebra, Evolis, Datacard, Fargo printers and the XID Retransfer printers?

5 Reasons why you need to make the switch

1. Better Print Quality Imaging on the XID retransfer printers is comparable to offset press printed cards- Colours are brighter and crisper; lines are sharper and cleaner.

2. Off-the-edge Printing Direct-to-card printers all leave a faint line on one side of the card to protect the printhead from damage. Yuck! Thankfully, Retransfer print heads do not make contact with the card, allowing a 'over-the-edge' printing appearance.

3. Lifetime Warranty on the Printhead Only the XID printers offer you the assurance of a lifetime warranty on the print head. No shady card count restrictions need apply.

4. Completely Modular The XID printers are fully customisable- meaning you purchase only what you need at this time with the option of adding modules (without requiring an upgrade) when your needs change. Why spend more when you don't have to?

5. Affordability Don't be deceived that the generosity of the CardsPlus discount reveals that the printer is outside of your budgeting bracket. The XID printers give you true value for your money.

You can read a brief introduction on the variety of print processes here and a comprehensive article on direct-to-card and retransfer printing methods here.

As always, please feel free to give us a call on 086 16 CARDS (22737) to hear more about print technology, printers and this offer.

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Product Focus: Jolly Technology Lobby Track

Finally the visitor management void has been filled! Lobby Track is the ideal software solution for companies looking for secure tracking, visitor management and access control system rolled into a low cost framework!

Lobby Track allows organizations to track employees and equipment with detailed activity logs by individual or groups, provides access control in conjunction with entry systems and provides visitor management functionality, including data entry, badge design, and badge printing.

Unique to this system is the capability to directly interface with the customer’s existing database in real-time.

There are many different applications for Lobby Track including:

Visitor Management

Register new visitors, employees, students, attendees, members or other groups of people. Registration can be completed on-site, online via your company's intranet or at self-registration kiosks.

Issue Plastic Badges

Design and issue professional ID cards, badges and visitor passes using the integrated badge designer. Several pre-designed templates are included.

Track Entries & Exits

Track and control access to your facility by requiring visitors and members to scan their badges on entry and exit.

Scan badges with barcodes, magnetic stripes or prox chips.

Manage Locations and Databases

Centrally manage multiple databases and locations.

Download a trial version of Lobby Track on in our Downloads section today!

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CardsPlus Product Focus- the DCP240+

The single sided, edge to edge EDIsecure ® DCP 240+ is the hottest new accessory for small business owners looking to ramp up their security, marketing and sales in a low cost solution. The low price point and feature-rich application ensures the DCP240+ is quickly becoming the go-to machine for entry level card printing.

Printer is the perfect solution to enter the world of ID card printing. With its remarkable print speed, excellent image quality and user-friendly operation, the DCP240+ is ideal for issuing membership cards, loyalty cards, and ID cards.

Using the DCP240+, you can enjoy high productivity- up to 160 full-colour and up to 750 monochrome cards can be printed per hour. The convenient automatic front card loading and output and user-friendly design allows for easy operation and maintenance.

Easy handling is guaranteed by the quick-change of supplies through re-loadable cartridges, operator replaceable printheads, front-facing card feeding and output, and continuous card cleaning. The advanced cleaning roller system removes particles that could scratch cards, damage printheads or diminish print quality.

The smart printer driver shows all information on the PC screen, including message prompts, colour image previews and online help.

With its attractive price point, it is truly the best single-sided card printer in its class.

Call in and see how the DCP240+ help grow your business!

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Plastic Card Printers - which one is right for you?

A quick search on Google for plastic card printers brings out a huge variety of brands, models and features available to anyone looking for a plastic card printer. But how can you know which one is right for you? How do you know what features are important and which ones are just "bells and whistles"?

Most people start out looking for the most affordable printer, which is understandable. Everyone wants the best for the least. However, it is important to consider other factors as well.

First, it is important to look at what your needs are. Are you looking to print a standard ID card? Do you need a printer that has the capability to provide an excellent full colour image? Do you need a fast printer that has the capability to print a high quantity of cards, or one that is designed to print smaller volumes? Each of the questions brings about a different answer...and one that goes beyond the price of the printer.

It is also important to look at the reliability of the printer. What type of reputation does this printer have? Does it have a good warrantee? Is it backed by a company who will be able to offer quick and trustworthy service, should it be needed. These are all questions that must be taken into consideration when evaluating the brands and models of plastic card printers currently on the market.

Our experience in the plastic card industry has given Cards Plus tried and true knowledge in what is available as well as what advantages and disadvantages are found in each brand of printer. It was with this knowledge that we have put our name behind Digital Identification's EdiSecure Plastic Card Printers. Not only does Digital Identification Solutions have the same customer focused, solution based business model, but they provide a product that is trustworthy, innovative and solid. From their affordable Value Line of desktop Plastic card ID Printers, to their highly secure XID Retransfer Printers, they provide consistantly excellent printers that far outshine their competition. And while we certainly understand that there are many in South Africa who are comfortable with their current brand of printer (and we will gladly assist them with any needs they might have), we truly believe that Edisecure is the best available - it's not the cheapest, but it is affordable. And it truly gives the best value for money.

We invite anyone who is interested to come by our offices and see a demonstration of EdiSecure brand printers - the cappucino is on us! Contact our customer service department to schedule an appointment. Call 011 894 3914 or 086 16 CARDS (22737)

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To Print or Not To Print - THAT is the Question!

For many people who are looking into adding plastic cards to their business, the big question is what is the most cost effective solution for me? Is this something that will add value to my business for having it, or is there a less expensive solution for me?

These are very valid questions, and definitely worth the research. The mistake most easily made, however is the analysis of only the cost of the materials and machine.

For some, laminate cards are a seemingly less expensive option.

Back in the "olden days", laminate cards were "it". They offered a water proof, more durable option to the previously popular heavy paper stock cards. However, the actual process of making the card was painful. The machine had to warm up, the paper had to be printed, then placed into the special sleeve, then run through the machine...trimmed.... It was laborious. And to do several at a time was cumbersome. Nevermind that someone had to more or less be assigned to do only this task for a significant time period. Then of course there was the durability- a little wear and the dog earred cards delaminated and needed to be printed again.
Painful and costly.

If one was to only look at the cost of the machine and materials versus the cost of a PVC card printer and consumables, one might easily demise that laminated cards were a more cost effective solution, however, as illustrated above, when consideration is made for durability and time investment, never mind the less than professional image that a laminated card provides, it actually can COST a company money in the end.

The lesson here? In finding the right solution for your company, don't simply stop at the actual cost of the items. Factor in to your costing the durability of the card as well as the time investment needed to print your cards - and add on as the bonus the fact that you will have a finished, colourful and professional looking item at the finish.

At Cards Plus, we offer a variety of solutions for our clients - from high quality card printers to large and small volume preprinted cards, to our very popular "Quick Card" service, with no minimum quanity, and a speedy turnaround time.

Give us a call and let us help you find the right solution for your company. +27 011 894 3914 (South Africa) www.cardsplus.co.za

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Can Do Files - Saving the Day

There are always those moments in life when despite the best made plans and preparation - things fall apart. And suddenly one is faced with a crisis that requires immediate action.

Our "Cards Plus Can Do" update is an opportunity we had this last week to help someone save the day - and just in the nick of time.

A very prestigious event was planned by one of our clients - much thought and preparation was made - even down to the red carpet for the VIP guest who was arriving to this special conference. One of the smaller pieces of this event were the plastic name badges that everyone would wear - and wouldn't you know that the client's card printer went down. A very stressed coordinator called our offices to see if we could assist in printing the plastic name badges and have them to her event in record time.

Thanks to our amazing and flexible staff we were able to come to her aid and print up the 50+ plastic cards she needed and hand deliver them to her event - just hours before the event began.

Our convenient Card Bureau service provides for instances such as these. No minimum card order, quick turnaround, helpful staff, and of course beautiful plastic cards. These are the things that make Cards Plus successful, and give us an opportunity to be a help to those in those who find themselves in the midst of a bit of a crisis.

It's our job, and we love it.

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Can Do Files - One Time Print Solution

At Cards Plus, our goal is to provide solutions that fit our client's needs- going to any length within our power.

Our latest CAN DO project involved a company who organizes events. Most specifically, they help with all the nitty gritty details involved in large scale events. Our client contacted us late in December looking for a cost effective solution for printing ID badges for a fairly large sporting event being held in Johannesburg this month. We could have offered him one of our New Year's Special Printers at a great discount - however this is a one time event, and he cannot justify a capital expense at this point.

Cards Plus to the rescue! We offered this client our DCP 240+ on a lease agreement. He can now print his ID badges in the short time span he needs to, paying for only the consumables needed and a small lease fee.

Perhaps you have a project that has unique circumstances, or you are looking for a solution perfectly tailored to your needs. At Cards Plus we will do everything we can within our power to find you the solution you need. Give us a call at 011 894 3914 or check our our web page at www.cardsplus.co.za

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Going Against the Flow

Cards Plus has never really fit into the mold of typical business in South Africa. Many of our clients have commented on our level of customer service, our quality of product and our desire to keep our clients the most important part of our day. We have been told that our expectations are too high and that our high standards are unrealistic.

In response, we say "Bah Humbug". We do believe that our clients are the most important part of our business, and that giving them the best service, product and information helps them to become the best that they can be. And this drives our every decision.

To celebrate the beginning of 2009, one that we believe- despite what some may say- is going to be a great year - we want to pass on to our clients a boost in the form of a great sale on direct to card printers and ribbons.

Our New Year's Special, the Edisecure DCP 240+, a dynamo of a card printer, is on sale for an unprecedented price. Available with or without magnetic encoders, you can now launch your access control system, membership program, or loyalty program without breaking the bank.

The DCP 240+ has a fantastic record for reliabilty, ease of use and quality of print. Coupled with accompanying software, Card Five Vision, it makes printing your plastic cards a joy rather than a chore.

Give us a call at our offices - 011 826 4915 (South Africa) or check our our company at www.cardsplus.co.za and see why we are pleased to "go against the flow" and offer our clients all the assistance they need to accomplish their goals for 2009

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Giving your Membership the Personal Touch

Business in today's economy demands creative thinking. When prices must be raised, how does a company maintain its customer base - adding value to its services-without it costing a fortune? Advertising has always been an option, but this can be a pricey venture.

One solution is to offer your clients a sense of belonging and additional value to continuing their relationship with your business. Membership cards and Loyalty cards are a simple, cost effective solution. The plastic card is a minature billboard and helps to build your brand - and shows your client that you value their business or membership.

The standard membership card or loyalty card can be amped up a notch (and be made more secure) by adding features such as signature panels, personalization and magnetic encoding.

At Cards Plus we offer a variety of solutions for our clients to add that personal touch to their plastic cards. Full service printing - printing each batch of cards, large or small quantities, complete with personalized details and encoding if needed; Pre-printed cards with batch printing personalization; or perhaps purchasing an affordable printer to print your own cards at the point of service - all of these options, and more are part of the portfolio we offer to our clients.

Making our clients look good is our goal. And we would love the opportunity to speak to you to see if one of our solutions might fit your needs.

You can contact us at Cards Plus by calling 086 16 CARDS (in South Africa) or +27 11 894 3914 and one of our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.

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EdiSecure XID Retransfer Printers - outshining the competition

The convenience and control offered by printing your own plastic cards is now even more appealing with the Digital Identification Professional Line of XID Retransfer Printers.

What makes the XID Retransfer Printers unique?

These printers stand out from other printers on the market today due to

• Print Quality: True ‘over the edge’ printing in millions of colours and offset quality print make cards printed on the XID printers stand out from the traditional direct to card method
• Value for Money: XID Card Printers are all based on the same print engine and chassis enabling them to be easily upgraded with the features needed
• Versatility: Not only do XID Retransfer printers print on a variety of materials with outstanding results (PVC, PVH, ABS, Polycarbonate, PET), but also offer a variety of features to add security to the card, whether encoding, laminating or special UV print technology.
• Performance: Excellent print speed as well as a lifetime warranty on the printhead give XID printers long term value.
• Ease of Use: Smart LCD display providing printer status information via text messages and coloured backgrounds, easy to load coloured ribbon cartridges and removable and reuseable cleaning rollers make operating these printers very straight forward.

Check out these specific benefits:

XID 560ie- fastest full-color single-sided Retransfer Printer in its class due to portrait mode printing. Network ready and ideal for printing and encoding of smart cards (contact and contactless) as well as magnetic stripe cards.

XID 570ie- Dual sided printing for more secure and durable ID cards. Security Ribbon Erase of printed K panel data, optional single sided or dual sided lamination as well as built in Ethernet port and IPSEC for encrypted data transfer.

XID 580ie-Perfect for use in highly secure and high volume operations such as government agencies, R&D departments, laboratories and multinational corporations. Designed for heavy duty use with up to 120 cards per hour with extended print driver features. Also offers pre-selection of up to five different card type profiles.

XID 590ie-the ideal printer for secure and reliable mass production in multinational corporations, card service centers, and government agencies. With the Advanced Intelligent Printer Management (IPM), unrivalled levels of productivity can be achieved, allowing up to seven printers t0 be connected to one server for high capacity production of up to 840 cards per hour. Printer Password Protection to increase security in the production environment . Security features available, such as dye-sublimation UV ribbon for covert security printing, IPSEC for encrypted data transfer through network, and Security Ribbon Erase of K-panel black data on used supplies.

Also, XID offers these items to assist in configuring each card identity system:

ILU-Inline Lamination Unit-Extend card life and protect against physical damage by adding additional clear or secure laminate to the card. Custom or generic holographic foils also help to protect against tampering

OLM-Overlamination Unit- Designed to operate in conjunction with the XID Retransfer printers, but still allows for offline lamination using an optional automatic card feeder. Ideal for secure and durable cards such as national ID cards, military ID, drivers licenses, secure employee cards and more. Custom or generic holographic foils also help to protect agains tampering.

Image Capture Modules-Clear, sharp image capture for photo IDs and travel documents. Automatically takes care of focus, white balance, gain control and backlight compensation. It is more than a simple camera, as the software application independent direct camera interface incorporates several specific features such as high-res live video for preview and mouse controlled zooming, as well as pan and tilt, portrait and landscape mode. The software driver also allows the camera to be used with virtually any software supporting the common TWAIN image acquisition standard.

More information, as well as personalized service can be obtained by contacting Cards Plus at +27 11 894 3914 or through our webpage at http://www.cardsplus.co.za/

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