A Photo ID machine is an easy way to improve your company’s security. Whether you want to create photo IDs or have a way to read the information stored on them, an ID machine can help you secure your building and employees and maintain a professional image.

Photo ID machines generally serve one of two different purposes: creating a photo ID or reading the information stored on an ID badge.  Machines that create the badges come in many different varieties, with different types of features and security add-ons depending on size, price and need. In order to produce photo ID badges, ID machines work in conjunction with a complete ID card system. These systems, like the machines, come in a variety of types. Generally, ID card systems include the following items:

• Camera – Cameras integrated into an ID card system make it easy to take a photo and immediately apply it to an ID badge. Digital cameras and webcams are the most commonly used cameras for ID systems. Many of these cameras come specially formatted to take photos that do not need to be resized or altered in any way, which streamlines the ID making process.
• Software – Computer software is used to design the ID card and encode any information the card might carry. Software programs generally have the following capabilities:
• Design – A user can create a template for ID cards with a company logo and a background, or choose from a variety of pre-designed templates. Some programs allow users to modify existing templates, some do not.
• Database – Software programs have databases for card holder information and history so that cards can be easily recreated and user information can be stored. Many software programs allow you to import and export information from existing company databases to create cards. Some advanced programs even allow you to interface real-time with your databases in order to maximize efficiency. Some software programs designed for larger operations also allow users to access databases and other information across corporate networks.