From the category archives:

Plastic Cards

The Where and the How of ID Scanners

ID scanners are an ideal item for those who need to scan ID cards both in and outside of a building. Portable scanners that are capable of scanning traditional ID cards are easy to find these days. This is because their lightweight construction and compact design lends to their ease of use. However there are a few things one should be aware of before buying their ID card scanning system. Having knowledge of these things ahead of time will assure that you choose the right scanner for your needs.
The steps involved in purchasing a scanner are really no different from those involved in purchasing any other product. Initially you should take the time to discover all of the possible systems that are currently available in the retail market, that also meet the needs of your business. The next step is to compare each of these systems in order to get a better grasp of which will suit your needs the best. The final step is of course is choosing which supplier to purchase the scanner you have chosen from.
Before purchasing your ID scanner
The process of purchasing an ID scanner is fairly simple. That being said there are certain things a consumer should pay particular attention to before making a final decision on which system to buy.
•    Scanner abilities – when researching scanners you should pay special attention to what exactly the scanner is capable of – some other things to pay attention to are what format it scans in, as well as the speed and overall resolution.
•    Price – To assure you get the most scanner for your money you should go into the project knowing exactly how much you are willing to spend. Then compare the scanners you deemed to suit your needs by their overall price, as well as what they offer.
•    Manufacturer and technical support – Research the supplier carefully before deciding to purchase your system. While there are many reputable scanners on the market you will want to get the best support deal you can to assure that your supplier will help you resolve any issues you may come across after the purchase.
•    User reviews – These can be your best friend no matter what product you are buying. However when making an investment as large as a scanner the reviews of people who previously purchased the system can mean the difference between buying a good system, and one that will break down.
•    Optional Offerings – Be sure to pay close attention to all of the optional accersories and programs offered with your system. These should include its ability to read business cards, driver’s licenses, checks etc. Whether or not the system is portable and whether the scanner has dual barcode and document scanning abilities.
An Acceptable Price to Pay for Your System
The average price of a portable scanning system on the web today is approximately $150.00. This however is just a starting price for a basic machine. From here they increase based on capabilities, performance, and size. One option you may find useful is duplex scanning, this is where the scanner can read both sides of a document simultaneously. The best option overall for purchase is obviously the internet. It is level of simplicity alone makes it the best option, that is not even taking the large discounts that can often be found with enough research.

ID scanners are an ideal item for those who need to scan ID cards both in and outside of a building. Portable scanners that are capable of scanning traditional ID cards are easy to find these days. This is because their lightweight construction and compact design lends to their ease of use. However there are a few things one should be aware of before buying their ID card scanning system. Having knowledge of these things ahead of time will assure that you choose the right scanner for your needs.

The steps involved in purchasing a scanner are really no different from those involved in purchasing any other product. Initially you should take the time to discover all of the possible systems that are currently available in the retail market, that also meet the needs of your business. The next step is to compare each of these systems in order to get a better grasp of which will suit your needs the best. The final step is of course is choosing which supplier to purchase the scanner you have chosen from.

Before purchasing your ID scanner

The process of purchasing an ID scanner is fairly simple. That being said there are certain things a consumer should pay particular attention to before making a final decision on which system to buy.

· Scanner abilities – when researching scanners you should pay special attention to what exactly the scanner is capable of – some other things to pay attention to are what format it scans in, as well as the speed and overall resolution.

· Price – To assure you get the most scanner for your money you should go into the project knowing exactly how much you are willing to spend. Then compare the scanners you deemed to suit your needs by their overall price, as well as what they offer.

· Manufacturer and technical support – Research the supplier carefully before deciding to purchase your system. While there are many reputable scanners on the market you will want to get the best support deal you can to assure that your supplier will help you resolve any issues you may come across after the purchase.

· User reviews – These can be your best friend no matter what product you are buying. However when making an investment as large as a scanner the reviews of people who previously purchased the system can mean the difference between buying a good system, and one that will break down.

· Optional Offerings – Be sure to pay close attention to all of the optional accersories and programs offered with your system. These should include its ability to read business cards, driver’s licenses, checks etc. Whether or not the system is portable and whether the scanner has dual barcode and document scanning abilities.

An Acceptable Price to Pay for Your System

The average price of a portable scanning system on the web today is approximately $150.00. This however is just a starting price for a basic machine. From here they increase based on capabilities, performance, and size. One option you may find useful is duplex scanning, this is where the scanner can read both sides of a document simultaneously. The best option overall for purchase is obviously the internet. It is level of simplicity alone makes it the best option, that is not even taking the large discounts that can often be found with enough research.

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How To Choose The Most Suitable ID Card Printer For Your Business

In the modern world, the way of doing business has undergone a makeover, and thanks to advanced technology, the way of obtaining photo ID cards required for businesses has metamorphosed as well. The modern world has witnessed outsourcing being replaced by in-house printing. The reason for it is that it is reasonably priced and promises a considerable amount of flexibility. It is vital to select the most appropriate ID card printer for your business, so it’s important to take the time to educate yourself about the options available as well as the features and benefits they offer.

Three options are available in ID card printers: single sided, dual sided and laminating pictures. With single sided printers, you can print pictures of superior quality, in color or monochrome, on only one side. With dual sided printers, you can obtain pictures of the same great quality, but on both sides. Dual sided printers also go a step beyond and offer extra features like encoding, smart card, barcode and magnetic strip. As for laminating printers, they provide extra protection from wear and tear, owing to its protective sheath. When you use laminating printers, you get additional security as a part of the deal, as it is not easy to alter these cards. Following are some of the popular ID card printer manufacturing companies:

Fargo Printers

Fargo Printers has been around for quite a while, fulfilling business requirements. Fargo Printers offers the very advanced technologies. In spite of that, their products are affordably priced, and their products are also known for their reliability. Single sided, dual sided and laminating printers feature on Fargo ’s product list. The user can customize his printer from Fargo Printers to be compatible with his photo ID software. The user has a wide range of choices with respect to models.

Evolis Printers

Evolis Printers has brought to the market offer a full range of technologies including encoding. They offer both single sided and dual sided printers. The printers from Evolis flash a sleek, contemporary exterior, and don’t take up much space. Moreover, they are also known to be very intuitive. It won’t take the user long to pick up the working of the printers. With respect to price, printers from Evolis are one of the most competitive. Moreover, it is conveniently easy to maintain these printers and their parts are widely available, which, combined with great warranties, make Evolis printers very desirable.

Zebra Printers

Zebra Printers have on offer a wide range of products at affordable prices. Their printers promise one of the top quality prints in the entire market, and as an added bonus, they are priced reasonably. Zebra printers are perennially on an endeavour to further improve upon its already superior product range. Their wide range of single sided, dual sided as well as laminating printers spoils the user for choice.

Magicard Printers

What sets Magicard Printers apart from the rest is their unique offering. What is exclusive about it is its inexpensive product line. This is what renders it a preferred choice for start up or small businesses. In fact, it’s equally attractive for businesses that have been around for a considerable time. This is because Magicard Printers has on offer an amazing range of products, from the very basic, entry level, good quality products to high-end models with all possible features. With these printers, it is possible to print photo identification badges, other ID cards and membership cards.

Datacard Printers

Datacard Printers are known for providing the most superior quality photo ID badges, membership cards, and other kinds of ID cards. It is possible to easily personalize your Datacard printer to the requirements of your business. The user can select from a wide range of security features and performance levels. Datacard has the right printer for you, whether you are looking for a very basic model or a high-end one.

The ID printer constitutes a significant part of the user’s ID printing process. Printers of superior quality are readily available in the market. In order to zero down on the most appropriate printer for you, it is wise to undertake some research, and educate oneself about the performances and features of the varied printers available.

While making a purchase decision, the user ought to reflect on the following questions to decide on the printer most suitable for his business:

1. What is the specific type of card I wish to print?

2. Do I require single sided or double sided ID cards printed?

3. Does my business have the requirement for barcode technology?

4. Does my business require laminating technology?

5. Does my company need anything special with respect to printing ID cards?

6. Do I wish for color prints?

7. How much can I afford to spend on the printer?

8. What are the specifications I desire in a warranty?

9. What are the recommendations of my ID card software for the printer?

10. Which are the printers that can be compared among each other and are priced reasonably?

Once the user has devoted due time to the choice of the printer, he is bound to settle for the printer that is most appropriate for his business.

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Freedom is brought to London

The leading Information Technology service provider Fujitsu will soon launch one million new contactless smart cards in London called ‘Freedom’, taking care of both the manufacturing and distribution.

The new passes use both Oyster and ITSO smart card technology and will carry a photograph of the owner thus eliminating the need for ‘Freedom owners’ to carry a separate photo card.

The first batch of users will be over 1 million 60+ people. They will be using the pass to receive free travelling services on buses, trains, the Tube and the Docklands Light Railway in the capital, as well as local bus routes around the country.

London Boroughs has paid for the new cards just as it has paid for the existing one since 20 years. But the former will be valid for 5 years, 3 years more than the current ones and with an added level of security.

Fujitsu will issue 1 million blank Freedom passes to be encoded and personalised for new customers or for renewal.

Elderly who carry such passes say that Freedom would definitely bring in more independence for them.

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Contactless Smart Cards Set To Rise By 25% In The Next 2 Years

According to a recently updated RNCOS report, the global shipments of microprocessor contactless smart card is predicted to grow at a CAGR of more than 25% between the years 2010 and 2012.

The new emerging technology of contactless smart cards has been proved to gain an increased usage in various business and trade applications. These contactless smart cards are developed in order to improve identification, authentication and many other processes that require flexibility and high accuracy. Moreover, these smart cards make it possible to manage, protect, store, and provide access to secure data. This technology promises reliability, durability, and convenience required for faster transactions in demanding situations and circumstances.

According to the latest research report “Smart Card Market Forecast to 2012”, the total number of secure microprocessor contactless smart card shipments are projected to grow at over 25% CAGR during 2010 to 2012. As per the findings of our team of research analysts, the contactless smart card technology is highly flexible, and it can take the most appropriate form for an application acceptable to most of the end users of the application. Also, our report has highlighted some key business benefits of the use of contactless smart cards.

The global smart card market performance was studied with respect to various domains such as technology, applications and regions. The report has presented various categories in its application in sectors like telecom, transport, public and financial, identifying the sectors as a potential smart card market. Moreover, the report delivers detailed country-level analysis which will help clients in figuring out the emerging countries that will make use of this growing technology in future.

The report “Smart Card Market Forecast to 2012” provides a comprehensive research and an unbiased analysis of the global smart card industry along with the present and future market trends. Some problem areas are also identified so that necessary measures can be taken so as not to hamper the growth prospects of the smart card industry. The report also provides detailed information regarding key smart card players throughout the world, mentioning their strengths as well as weaknesses.

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The New Zebra ZXP Series 8 Retransfer Plastic Card Printer

Zebra has recently launched its first retransfer card printer with top photo quality card printing at the fastest possible speed. The groundbreaking technology is based on the patent-pending image transfer that consistently delivers sharp resolution print with top class image quality. The ZXP Series 8 printer offers flexibility of features that can be included at the time of ordering or used as add-ons later. These include flexible encoding, connectivity options, security settings and choice of magnetic stripe encode, Smart-card contact or contactless encoders.  It also includes Zebra’s software development kit, Zmotif that eases the integration process with other applications in the organization.  Some of its key advantages include:

  • Offers high speed over-the-edge printing of up to 190 single sided cards per hour
  • Monochrome or full color retransfer film printing
  • Can produce durable photo quality cards
  • Can select single or double sided printing options with magnetic stripe or smart card encoding
  • Ideally suited for ID cards, loyalty cards and drivers’ licenses.

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China Knows Loyalty Systems

Credit cards have been slow to take off in China, but as an alternative, big stores in major cities have their own shopping cards that are purchased as prepaid ones and funds added to hem. This eases the shopping process and shops stand to earn a larger amount in profits due to these cards.

These shopping cards are simply thin plastic sheets that make shopping easier for the customer. On many occasions such pre-paid consumer smart cards systems were outlawed by China’s financial regulators, but now thanks to them billions of dollars worth of sales are being recorded each year. While some cards are issued by shops themselves, others are issued by some third party that has various shops as its partners, and earns a commission from them for selling their cards. Shops choose such partnerships to increase their profits. Also cards are of large amounts and often, the card date expires though a large balance is still left unused in the card. A card getting damaged also means that the sum is lost to the customer and ends up as a benefit to the store. For instance, a large supermarket in a city may issue prepaid shopping cards worth 1 billion Yuan annually. At the end of the twelve-month period it finds at least 500 million Yuan unused, which, if placed in a bank, may earn an interest of 6-8% annually. Another 5% goes waste in damaged cards or dates expired. As a result, the card issuer makes a clean 10% profit with the sale of these cards.

Most stores in Shanghai carry logos of their cards that resemble a credit card and can help in paying for anything in the store. Research reveals that every resident of the city owns at least one shopping card that is usable in hair salons, restaurants, departmental stores, convenience stores and gas stations.

From the store’s point of view, the cards serve another purpose. They can use these to reward employees, give out as gift cards, and also use them to show their gratitude to customers spending large amounts. The old Chinese tradition of giving gifts to known people can also be followed with these cards. They have also replaced traditional gifts like a box of moon cakes during the Autumn Festival. However, the flip side is that shops handing out gift cards to people serving in positions of authority may be perceived as bribes, even though they are not the same as hard cash. Handed over to employees in place of a cash bonus will lead to tax evasion since cards do not form part of tax calculations.

Prepaid shopping cards have been banned time and again in China. Considered illegal at one time, in December 1998, the State Council had forbidden their printing and circulation in any form. The Central Government banned them again in 2001. Their revival started in2003 on the heels of the SARS epidemic which had a severe impact on the consumer and the government became sympathetic towards them. They have been in regular use since that time.

Thus with shopping cards, a new occupation of card brokers has emerged. By earning commissions up to 3% of the card amount, with the purchase and sale of shopping cards, they are able to earn substantial amounts. Many trade cards worth 500,000 Yuan each month and earn 15000 consequently as commissions.

As the use of cards spreads a need for regulation is also being felt to protectlo the interests of the consumer. This becomes necessary in cases where stores are headed towards bankruptcy or sudden closure. The shopping cards of such stores become worthless overnight, resulting in huge losses for consumers.

Shopping cards are issued by large departmental stores in the West as well, but their use is limited to that specific store and also entails discounts and accumulation of points.

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