Slot punching cards is an easy way to attach them to badge reels or lanyards – but don’t cut corners by slot punching your cards BEFORE you print, since this can create jagged edges that may break your printer!
ID Card Printing Expert Tip – ONLY Slot Punch Cards After Printing
ID card printers work by running a heated printhead over the printer ribbon, applying the colored or monochrome design to your ID card. Jagged edges and uneven surfaces, like the rough edge of a slot punched hole, can snag and tear ribbons (easy to fix, by taping the ribbon back together) and more importantly damage the printhead.
Why does this matter? Because printhead repairs are costly and take time. Unless your printer warranty covers the printhead (and you are still within the warranty), you could be out several hundred dollars and several weeks without a printer!
What To Do Instead
Instead, slot punch cards after you’ve printed them. Or avoid slot punching cards altogether and put your IDs in badge holders, which have slots for attaching to badge reels or lanyards.
Questions?
Contact our expert sales staff at (877) 868-0012 or [email protected] for help choosing the best ID accessories to fit your needs.
ID Card Group accepts purchase orders, offers free shipping on orders over $100, and a price match guarantee.
