Many people have questions about identity cards and have trouble finding the answers; here are some common questions users have concerning the discoloration visible in some types of ID cards along with the most difficult and most common forms of ID card printing.

What is direct-to-card printing?

Direct to card printing is in direct contrast to resin thermal printing. Direct-to-card printing essentially means that the dyes from the printer ribbon are superimposed directly onto a clean PVC card's surface. The integral thing to remember if you're using direct-card-printing is that dirt and hand oils may cause defects in the finished product or damage the fragile print head; thus it's imperative to always ensure the ID card is clean for this process. You will see the term-direct-to-card printers often when searching for ID card printing options, as it is one of the most common methods used.

What is edge-to-edge printing?

Edge-to-edge printing, also known as full bleed printing, is where the printer covers the entire surface of the card from edge to edge, leaving little to no white space surrounding the card. While litho cards can be printed edge-to-edge easily, PVC printing technology has a little catching up to do. One of the most essential things to look out for when you're printing edge-to-edge is that you don't tear the printer ribbon. This means adjusting the printer head so that it doesn't come down to late and cut the printer ribbon.

Why are some areas of smart cards colored differently than others?

Some smart cards, like proximity cards, show differences in color because of the antenna/microchip embedded within the card. The bump can produce a non-flat surface area in the area of the card that holds the antenna and microchip, causing the color to distribute itself unevenly across the face of the card.

Though the discoloration is barely visible to the average eye, the printer notices it immediately. Another possibility is that, since the card's antennas are made of metal, the metal affects the PVC's heat absorption abilities, causing uneven color right above the antenna; this is often seen as a light ring around the upraised area.

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