Introduction
In an age where digital identification and access control are integral to every organization, the need for secure and high-quality ID printing solutions is more critical than ever. From educational institutions to multinational corporations, the demand for professional, tamper-resistant ID cards continues to rise. This is exactly where Fargo printers step in—offering a perfect blend of reliability, print quality, and advanced encoding options. Developed by HID Global, Fargo printers are designed to cater to diverse ID card printing needs while ensuring security and scalability. This comprehensive guide explores what Fargo printers are, how they work, their standout features, and how to choose the right model for your organization.
Understanding Fargo Printers
What is a Fargo Printer?
A Fargo printer is a high-performance ID card printer designed to create durable plastic identification cards. These printers are used to print on blank PVC or composite cards and can include features like barcodes, magnetic stripes, or embedded chips. Fargo printers are available in various models, suitable for both small-scale offices and large-scale government institutions. Their core strength lies in producing visually professional cards with high print quality and built-in security options.
Who Makes Fargo Printers?
Fargo printers are manufactured by HID Global, a globally recognized leader in secure identity solutions. HID Global serves multiple industries, including healthcare, education, finance, and public services. The Fargo brand stands out for combining ease of use with advanced functionality, earning the trust of enterprises that demand reliability and innovation.
Industry Use Cases
Fargo printers are used across various sectors, including education for student IDs, healthcare for patient access badges, government for secure credentials, and corporate settings for employee identification. They are also ideal for event management, loyalty programs, and transportation cards. Thanks to their versatile technology, Fargo printers can handle anything from simple name tags to sophisticated access control cards.
Key Features of Fargo Printers
High-Definition Printing (HDP)
HDP technology is one of Fargo’s most praised innovations. It allows the printer to create sharp, high-resolution images with rich colours. This process involves printing onto a transparent film, which is then heat-transferred onto the card. This method helps avoid issues that arise when printing directly onto uneven surfaces, such as embedded chips.
Edge-to-Edge and Over-the-Edge Printing
Unlike traditional printers, Fargo devices can print up to and beyond the card’s edge. This results in a sleek, professional finish with no unprinted borders, making it ideal for organizations that want premium-looking ID cards.
Secure Encoding Options
Security is a core strength of Fargo printers. They support magnetic stripe encoding, contact and contactless smart card encoding, and RFID encoding. This makes them highly suitable for institutions requiring secure access cards or multi-functional ID badges.
Durability and Long-Term Reliability
Fargo printers are engineered for high-duty cycles. They’re designed to withstand environments with frequent usage, ensuring consistent performance over time. Combined with regular maintenance, these printers deliver a significant return on investment.
Modular and Upgradeable Design
Many Fargo printer models offer modular configurations. This means users can upgrade their printers with features like lamination, dual-sided printing, or advanced encoding without having to replace the entire unit.
Types of Fargo Printing Technologies
Direct-to-Card (DTC) Printing
DTC printing is the traditional method where the printer transfers dye directly from the ribbon onto the card using a thermal print head.
How DTC Works
The printer uses a ribbon cartridge with multiple panels—typically Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black, and an Overlay (YMCKO). Each panel is heated and transferred onto the card to form the image. The overlay protects the card from fading or scratches.
Pros and Cons of DTC Printing
Pros include faster print speeds and lower costs. It’s ideal for simple ID card programs. However, it’s less effective on cards with uneven surfaces and may not offer the same print quality as HDP.
High-Definition Printing (HDP)
HDP utilizes reverse-transfer technology, providing superior print quality and enhanced performance with smart cards.
How HDP Works
The printer first prints the image onto a clear film, which is then fused onto the card using heat and pressure. This method enables printing over embedded chips, resulting in high durability.
Pros and Cons of HDP Printing
Pros include exceptional image quality and card durability. HDP also handles complex card surfaces better. On the downside, it is slower and more expensive than DTC.
Types of Cards You Can Print with Fargo Printers
Fargo printers are capable of printing various card types, including:
- Employee ID cards
- Student ID cards
- Healthcare access badges
- Visitor badges
- Government credentials
- Loyalty and membership cards
- Public transportation or fare cards
Advanced models also support encoding data onto these cards using:
- Magnetic stripes
- Smart chips (contact or contactless)
- RFID technology (e.g., MIFARE or iCLASS)
Popular Fargo Printer Models
Fargo DTC1250e
This compact and affordable DTC printer is ideal for small businesses, schools, and membership organizations. It offers single or dual-sided printing, optional encoding, and fast print speeds.
Key Specs and Ideal Use Cases:
- Ideal for low to medium-volume printing
- Print speed: up to 16 seconds per card
- Encoding options: magnetic stripe, smart card
Fargo HDP6600 with Laminator
This HDP printer is perfect for large institutions needing high-quality, tamper-proof cards. It features advanced capabilities such as dual-sided printing, built-in lamination, and smart card encoding.
Key Specs and Ideal Use Cases:
- Suitable for high-security environments
- Print speed: up to 230 cards/hour
- Integrated lamination for card longevity
Choosing the Right Fargo Printer for Your Needs
When selecting a Fargo printer, consider the following:
Volume Requirements
High-volume environments benefit from models like the HDP6600, while smaller organizations can opt for the DTC1250e.
Security Features
For secure facilities, prioritize printers that offer smart card and RFID encoding capabilities.
Print Quality Expectations
If professional image quality is crucial, go with an HDP model for superior results.
Budget Considerations
DTC printers are more affordable and better for basic needs. HDP printers, although more expensive, offer higher quality and longer card life.
Supplies and Accessories
Fargo printers work best when maintained with genuine supplies, such as:
- YMCKO and monochrome ribbons
- Cleaning kits for printheads and rollers
- Blank cards (PVC, composite, or eco-friendly)
- Design software like Asure ID, CardPresso, or EasyBadge
Installation and Setup
Connecting to Your Network or Computer
Most Fargo printers come with USB and Ethernet connectivity, making them easy to integrate into existing networks.
Software Configuration
Using compatible software, users can design card layouts, manage databases, and control encoding.
Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues
Issues like card misfeeds or ribbon errors are rare but can be resolved with firmware updates and regular cleaning.
Printer Maintenance Tips
Cleaning Schedules
Routine cleaning improves print quality and extends printer life. Use cleaning kits recommended by HID Global.
Replacing Ribbons and Consumables
Always use genuine Fargo supplies for optimal results. Change ribbons before they run out to avoid print errors.
Avoiding Common Print Errors
Calibrate the printer regularly and store cards in a dust-free environment to avoid smudges or alignment problems.
Advantages of Using Fargo Printers
- Superior image quality and color accuracy
- Fast printing speeds in high-throughput environments
- Wide range of secure encoding options
- Seamless integration with access control and ID systems
- Scalable solutions for growing organizations
Limitations and Considerations
- The higher upfront cost for HDP models
- Consumable supplies can add to long-term costs
- Environmental factors like heat or dust may affect performance
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can Fargo printers print over embedded chips?
Yes, especially HDP models, which use reverse transfer technology.
2. How long do Fargo-printed cards last?
With proper lamination, cards can last 3–5 years or more.
3. Are Fargo printers compatible with Mac OS?
Some models support Mac OS with appropriate drivers, but it’s best to check compatibility.
4. Can I print colour and monochrome with the same machine?
Yes, most Fargo printers can switch between colour and monochrome ribbons.
5. What encoding technologies are supported?
Magnetic stripe, contact, and contactless smart cards, as well as RFID encoding, are all supported.
Conclusion
Fargo printers represent the gold standard in ID card printing technology. Their combination of durability, print quality, and advanced security features makes them the go-to choice for organizations of all sizes. Whether you’re printing a basic employee badge or a multi-functional access card, Fargo printers offer the reliability and flexibility to meet your needs.