Versatile card printer delivers fast performance, high-quality cards and optional print capabilities to energize card programs

Paris, France, November 18, 2003–Datacard Group today introduced a new powerful desktop card printer with the speed and quality required to produce high-impact cards plus the flexibility and features needed to keep pace as card programs evolve. The company demonstrated the innovative Datacard® SP55 card printer at CARTES 2003 in Paris.

“The Datacard SP55 card printer combines the quality, dependability and reliability of a professional-grade card printer with the simple, intuitive design of a desktop printer,” said Mike Schnaus, vice president of marketing and corporate development for Datacard Group. “This intelligent card printer is an ideal choice for creating photo IDs, membership cards, loyalty cards, and guest cards that infuse card programs with new energy–while they strengthen security, reduce costs and attract new customers.”

The SP55 card printer delivers exceptional image quality with Datacard® Advanced Imaging Technology™, which produces crisper, sharper images and industry-leading card quality. Advanced Imaging Technology employs optimized print ribbons and user-adjustable color controls resulting in smooth, uniform backgrounds, superior optical density and precise color matching.

This fast, productive printer delivers up to 700 monochrome or 180 color cards per hour. Options include simplex or duplex printing and 100- and 200-card input hoppers.

“The SP55 makes it easier and more cost-effective to produce quality cards,” Schnaus added. “Its flexible design lets end-users choose any combination of proximity, magnetic stripe or smart card technology. Each of these machine-readable technologies can be quickly added through field upgrades. So, organizations can start with the capabilities they need today, then expand as their card program evolves.”

The Datacard SP55 card printer integrates seamlessly with Datacard® identification software and digital cameras to form a complete photo ID card solution, according to Schnaus. “The versatility of the printer and our photo ID systems allows us to meet the needs of any program and any budget,” he said.