An Overview of Photo ID Systems

There are a variety of photo ID systems to choose from ranging from basic set ups right on up to more sophisticated arrangements of ID components.  The system configuration and components largely depend on the style and needs of a company or organization, the number of ID cards and badges needed, and the kinds of functions ID cards will perform.
A standard photo ID card system is usually comprised of an ID card printer, ID software for design and maintaining databases, a webcam or digital camera, and printing supplies.

ID Card Printer - The ID card printer is the main component of any ID card program.  Depending on the needs of an organization an ID card printer can equip any ID card program with a range of functions.  Printers can be single or dual-sided.  More advanced ID card printers print high security ID cards with magnetic stripe, smart card, and contactless encoding.

ID Card Software - ID card software simplifies design and helps organize and configure cardholder records.  The software makes it easy to design graphics and place images and text on ID cards.  ID card software also houses cardholder databases, which can be used for access control and time and attendance tracking.