Datacard® Open Platform driver allows card issuers to use all the key features of Datacard® SP Series card printers with the Linux® operating system

San Diego, CA, September 25, 2006–Datacard Group today announced that it has developed the Datacard® Open Platform driver as part of its ongoing commitment to open standards. This unique interface, now available for free download at http://www.datacard.com/openplatformdriver, allows card issuers to deploy Datacard® SP Series card printers with Linux and other operating systems supporting the Common UNIX Printing System (CUPS).

“We created the Open Platform driver to give our customers more options,” said Connell Smith, vice president of desktop solutions for Datacard Group. “With it, customers who use SP Series card printers will have the option of moving to open operating systems, including Linux. Plus, organizations that are already running the Linux system will be able to implement new card programs using any of our SP Series card printers. Ultimately, this interoperability empowers customers to improve efficiency and manage costs more effectively. It is a great example of why we support open standards.”

“The popularity of open source operating systems, such as the Linux system, continues to grow among government agencies, financial institutions, retailers and other organizations,” said Smith. “These operating systems offer unique cost-savings potential as well as a transparent, proactive way to address security concerns.”

The Open Platform driver supports all the key features and functions of the popular SP Series card printers, including full-color and monochrome card printing, magnetic stripe encoding, smart card personalization, secure laminate application and ultraviolet fluorescent printing. In addition to the driver, supporting documentation is available at the web site.

Datacard Group offers the world’s best-selling secure ID and card personalization solutions. The company’s portfolio includes systems for high-volume card issuance, card delivery, secure ID issuance and passport production, plus extensive service and supply offerings. Datacard Group serves customers in more than 120 countries (http://www.datacard.com).