HDP, short for High Definition Printing, is a specialized card printing technology utilized in premium ID card printers such as the HID FARGO HDP5000. Renowned for its ability to create high-quality ID cards, HDP surpasses standard dye-sublimation printing techniques.
The process of HDP printing operates as follows:
- The reverse transfer process used in HDP differs from traditional methods by printing the mirrored image onto a special film before laminating and heat fusing it onto the card body, resulting in a smooth and long lasting card surface.
Key Advantages:
- Exceptional Image Quality: HDP produces sharper images with richer colors and finer details compared to standard printing. This is especially crucial for applications like photo ID cards where clarity and accurate representation are essential.
- Enhanced Durability: The laminated HDP film protects the printed image from scratches, fading, and wear and tear, extending the lifespan of your cards.
- Conforms to Uneven Surfaces: Because the image is printed on film first, HDP excels at producing high quality images on cards with uneven surfaces, such as those containing embedded smart chips or RFID tags. Standard printing methods might struggle with such uneven surfaces.
- Security Benefits: The lamination layer adds another level of security to your cards, making them more tamper-proof.
Downsides of HDP Printers:
- Higher Cost: HDP printers are generally more expensive than standard RFID ID card printers due to the more complex printing process and materials involved.
- Slower Print Speeds: Printing with HDP technology might be slightly slower compared to standard methods.
HDP printers are ideal for organizations that require high quality, secure, and durable ID cards. Here are some common use cases:
- Govt Agencies: Issuing high-security ID cards or access control student id cards.
- Large Corporations: Creating professional employee badges with intricate designs or logos.
- Universities: Producing student ID cards that can withstand regular wear and tear.
- Financial Institutions: Printing secure credit cards or debit cards.
