HID Global targets entry-level markets with inkjet printer

HID Global is describing its HID Fargo INK1000 printer and encoder as the industry’s first thermal inkjet solution that brings secure, personalised credential issuance to entry- and mid-level markets. The new unit offers inkjet technology to the global desktop card printer market, enabling cost effective, high-quality credentials and reportedly eliminating the need for specialised card media.

“Until now, small and medium-sized organisations have had very limited options for personalised credential issuance due to high costs and complex maintenance requirements,” noted Craig Sandness, vice president and managing director of Secure Issuance with HID Global. “Our HID Fargo INK1000 solution resolves those challenges, creates an unmatched industry benchmark for affordability and ease-of-use, and extends the simplicity of inkjet printing popularised for home use to retail counters and office environments.”

The printer does not require print ribbons or specialised card media. The snap-in cartridges deliver operate in the same way as those for consumer inkjet printers and contain specially formulated inks for creating fade-resistant images and text that adhere to standard, off-the-shelf polyvinyl chloride (PVC) cards. The manufacturer states that a single ink cartridge has the potential to produce hundreds more cards than printers that use ribbons and create less waste while significantly improving total cost of ownership (TCO).