While the ID card printer is the most glamorous component of an ID card system, software is equally important. Photo ID software provides the tools that allow you to design your cards and manage the ins and outs of your ID card program.

Like many schools, Cal State Fullerton is finding new ways to increase the functionality of its student ID cards. This year, students can use their TitanCards for a variety of services including cashless payment, discount and rewards programs, and even keyless entry to dorms and other school facilities.

New firmware and driver updates are now available for Magicard Enduro and Pronto ID card printers. The firmware is actually meant to make it easier for owners of these printer models to know when new versions of printer firmware and drivers are released. Rather than having to routinely check the Magicard website for updates, users can now be alerted automatically.

When we think about high-definition card printers, the first thing that comes to mind is the enhanced print quality. High-def printers such as the Fargo HDP5000 and the new Zebra ZXP Series 8 are know for their ability to produce photo-quality cards with vivid colors and sharp images and text, but that's not their only benefit. These printers are also built to last, and they offer the flexibility to print on multiple card types.

Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Brooklyn, New York is readying a new health care smart card program set to launch in early 2010. The project involves issuing over 110,000 smart cards to patients of the center. Each smart card will carry the patient's demographic information plus important medical information such as medical conditions, medications and allergies.

In an effort to crack down on identity theft, the Department of Veteran’s Affairs created a new identity card for veterans to prevent scams and protect confidential information. The new ID program will safeguard benefits and services that all veterans are entitled to after their military service.

Northern Michigan University recently upgraded their security systems in residence halls with a new card access system that links student access to their Wildcat Express student ID cards. The university decided to implement the new system to increase efficiency and security for the on campus buildings. Using student IDs as access cards makes it easier for university officials to manage the locking system for exterior doors to the residence halls.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly way to increase the visual authenticity of your ID cards, you might want to consider hologram stickers and overlays. AlphaCard offers an assortment of self-adhesive stickers that can help you enhance ID card security. These self-applied stickers and overlays are a great option if your budget is too tight for card printers featuring holographic lamination.

Sheppard Air Force Base, a large training facility located in Wichita County, Texas, is implementing a new ID card system that aims to significantly improve security. They call it the Defense Biometric Identification System (or DBIDS), and it's being used not only at Sheppard, but throughout the Air Force's Air Education and Training Command, as well as other Department of Defense facilities.

Recipients of the AlphaCard email newsletter already know about our special year-end discount on ID card accessories. Now it's your turn to get in on the action. Simply head on over to our Holiday Discount page where you'll find a promo code good for 10% off all ID card accessories. This is a great deal for those looking to stock up and save on accessories such as lanyards, badge reels and strap clips. But you better act fast because the offer expires on January 1st, 2010. Want to be the first to hear about exclusive deals and other exciting promos such as this one? All you have to do is sign up for our email newsletter and we'll keep you in the loop.