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.

When we speak with new customers who are in the market for a photo ID system, one of the first issues we like to address is the choice between single-sided and dual-sided ID card printers. Single-sided printers cost less, but it's possible that your ID card program will require a dual-sided printer. How do you know which solution is best for your needs? Let's take a look at some key factors that should clear things up for you.

HID Global has announced that its Fargo HDP5000-LC ID card printer/encoder is now formally certified as FIPS 201 compliant by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA). This certification means that organizations and government agencies can use the HDP5000-LC printer to meet the government-wide standard for ID cards for all federal employees and contractors. This standard was mandated by the Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12.

Today Fargo announced new and improved versions of some of its most popular ID card printer models. They're calling it the E Series line, and it includes the Fargo DTC400e, the Persona C30e, and the Persona M30e. Each of these E Series printers improves upon its predecessor with enhanced versatility, functionality, and network connectivity.

The central elements of an ID card system have been the same for a while now - computer, printer, cards, camera, cables, as well as the security features a card can have - holographic overlay, magnetic stripes, RFID antennas, smart card chips, bar codes. Most of the ID card machines available today are able to produce these kinds of security measures easily and at high rates.

The British Army, one of Alpha Card's customers, recently forwarded on a couple of pictures from their current work in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Officers are using an ID card printer to make secure badges for the new Afghani police force.