Tag Archives: id card printer tips

What is that fine white line on my ID card?

The Fine White Line

We often receive calls from clients whose printed ID cards include a fine white line. This line always appears in the same place on the card and does not vary (though one may not notice it if there is not a text, image, or background color in that area). This symptom indicates one of 3 problems with the printer’s printhead:

  1. A piece of dust, dirt or debris is stuck to the printhead;
  2. The printhead has physical damage (such as a scratch or a nick);
  3. The printhead has had one or more imaging pixels burn-out. This usually results from an electrical surge or lighting strike.

printhead

Solutions

A user can solve the first problem by manually cleaning the printhead with IPA alcohol wipes or swabs. (Find them here!)

The latter 2 problems are more common and require replacement of the printhead. Prior to purchasing a replacement, first check with your authorized dealer to see if the printhead is still under warranty. Virtually all top printer manufacturers’ warranties offer to replace a damaged printhead for a defined period of time following purchase of a new printer.

A word of caution: Please review your own printer’s warranty for any coverage requirements or restrictions. Many of these warranties require performing required cleanings on-schedule (usually about every 1,000 cards, but check your printer’s user manual for the exact number). Additionally, many warranties exclude damage caused by misuse, or use of sub-standard materials (i.e., cheap cards or non-brand ribbons).

For more support, or information about quality ID-card printers, parts and supplies, visit our web store, or contact one of our ID experts at +1 704.535.5200 or toll-free at +1 888.485.4696 (US & Canada).

If your printer feeds several cards at once

id cards

When printing id cards, sometimes the id card printer will take in more than one card at a time. Usually the printer jams and stops leaving the card maker wondering what has happened. By opening up the printer and removing the multiple cards inside the printing area of the printer, the printer will be able to resume making the next id badge. Usually the card on which the error occurred will need to be manually set to reprint so that it is available for the id card holder.

Two steps will help to reduce the card jam.

1. The thickness lever at the input hopper should be set for the size of card printed. The standard PVC card is 30. Specialized cards may be more or less than 30.

2. Cards that have been recently unwrapped may be stuck together with static electricity. The best way to remove this is to hold the card by the edges and rock them back and forth until they do not cling together. You do not want to touch the printable area of the card with your fingers when handling the cards.

For specific information about current Fargo badge printers, contact us or visit the following:

fargo

 

Persona C30
Persona C30e
Fargo DTC 400
Fargo DTC 400e
Fargo DTC 550
Fargo HDP 5000