Stock up on the Correct ID Card Supplies

The first thing you need to do is make sure that the ribbon you are looking at is compatible with the card printer model that you have. Ribbons are not normally exchangeable between manufacturers so you will want to know the make and model of the printer that you are using. Manufacturers such as Fargo, Evolis, Zebra and Magicard provide manufacturer produced ribbons compatible with current model printers as well as discontinued models.

The ribbon type needed is based on the capabilities of your printer and the card output that you are wanting. Single sided printers commonly use the YMC, YMCK and YMCKO print ribbons. A printer that prints both front and back side of an ID card commonly uses a YMCKOK print ribbon.

YMC print ribbons print full color cards with a composite black print. The color options are the card are broad as the mixture of the Y, M and C panel colors will create a multitude of colors. This ribbon will not do well if you need a bar code printed on the card. The ribbon does not contain a pure black panel that provides a true, sharp black color. This ribbon produces black by a mixture of Y, M and C. This ribbon is used for ID card printers that have a lamination module. The lamination unit provides the O layer needed to seal the card in a separate application on the card. The O layer is needed to protect the card from fade or scratching.

YMCK ribbons are similar to the YMC ribbon with the addition of the K panel. Full color is provided by the YMC panels. This K panel is the resin black panel needed for true black barcodes and other text. This ribbon is also used for printers with the separate lamination unit with the separate O panel.

YMCKO print ribbons contain full color, resin black and as overlay panel in one ribbon. This single sided print ribbon will provide a sharp colorful card with a true black print. The O panel is combined with the print panels and provides the thin layer overlay needed to help protect the card surface.

YMCKOK print ribbons contain full color, resin black, overlay panel and an additional resin black panel. These ribbons are used for dual sided printing. The front of the card is printed in full color, resin black with the overlay panel. The back of the card is then printed with the resin black allowing for bar codes and other text an organization may want on the back of the card.

Knowing a bit about the ribbons helps those who are trying to reorder ribbons for their photo identification card printer system. Additional help is available through ID card experts at integrators found online.