While it may sound like a seemingly simple task, there’s a right way and a wrong way to correctly insert a ribbon into an ID card printer. Have you ever noticed finger prints on a printed ID card? One sure-fire way to avoid finger prints getting onto your newly produced ID badges is to ensure that your hands remain only on the ribbon spools when inserting it. You never want to touch the ribbon directly with your fingers, as oil from your fingers can transfer onto the ribbon and show up on your ID card. Here are a few tips for inserting the ribbon:
- Hold the uptake side with one hand and the supply side of the ribbon with the other (think of them as the printer “spools”)
- Insert gently into the ribbon feed gear
- Don’t worry if the ribbon is slightly crinkled – the ribbon will automatically advance to the next panel
- Once the ribbon is inserted into the feed gear, carefully close the printer cover until you hear it snap shut. The cover initializes the printing process.
The most important thing to remember is to keep your fingers off the ribbon — we cannot stress that enough. Have more questions? Visit our Technical Support page on Ribbons.
