We often get asked what the difference is between a Direct-to-card printer and a Retransfer printer, so we thought we would give you a quick overview.
Direct-to-card printers use a dye-sublimation or thermal transfer process to print directly onto the surface of the card. The printhead applies the coloured ink or dye onto the card. In contrast, a Retransfer printer prints the image onto an overlay film via the ribbon and the overlay film is then thermally fused to the card’s surface to create a professional “over-the-edge” printed card.
A Retransfer printer is better able to print onto the uneven surfaces of access control and smart cards without any print errors/ imperfections and risking damage to the print head. Direct-to-card printers, however are more affordable and are a great cost effective plastic card printing solution.
To find out which ID Card Printing solution best suits your requirements, contact us on 02 9651 6000 or email : sales@idcw.com.au
Direct-to-card versus Retransfer ID card printer technology
