When it comes to identification and access control, both ID cards and key fobs play crucial roles. While key fobs are known for their convenience and ease of use, ID cards remain a staple for visual identification and data encoding. Understanding the specifications of ID cards, particularly their thickness, is essential for ensuring compatibility, durability, and optimal performance, especially when these cards might be used in conjunction with or as part of an Id Key Fob system.
Just like the dimensions of an ID card follow industry standards like CR80, the thickness is also a critical specification. ID card thickness is measured in “mils,” with one mil equaling 0.001 inch. This measurement might seem minute, but it significantly impacts how the card functions, its durability, and its compatibility with ID card printers and encoding technologies often found in key fob systems.
Decoding ID Card Thickness: Mils and Millimeters
The term “mil” might be unfamiliar, but it’s the standard unit for gauging ID card thickness. To put it in perspective, a mil is one-thousandth of an inch (0.001 inch). In metric terms, this is approximately 0.0254 millimeters. Understanding this unit is crucial because different card thicknesses cater to various needs and applications, from basic identification to robust access control systems that might integrate with key fob technology.
Exploring Common ID Card Thicknesses and Their Applications
The variety in ID card thicknesses isn’t arbitrary; each thickness level is designed for specific uses. Here’s a breakdown of the most common thicknesses and their typical applications:
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10-mil cards: These are quite thin and flexible, often used for business cards rather than standard ID badges. It’s crucial to note that 10-mil cards are generally not recommended for most ID card printers, especially retransfer or laminating printers. The heat involved in these printing processes can melt these thin cards, potentially damaging your printer. Always verify your printer’s specifications before using 10-mil cards.
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13-mil cards: Slightly thicker than 10-mil cards, 13-mil cards are also sometimes used for business cards or basic membership cards. While they are a bit more printer-friendly than 10-mil cards, they are still not ideal for standard ID cards or dual-sided printing on all printers. Again, printer compatibility checks are essential.
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20-mil cards: Moving into more durable options, 20-mil cards are frequently used for applications like bus tickets or temporary transit passes. Their increased thickness provides better rigidity. However, due to their thickness, some ID card printers might struggle to feed 20-mil cards correctly. Always consult your printer’s manual for compatibility.
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30-mil cards: This is the industry standard thickness for a wide range of applications. 30-mil cards are the go-to choice for access control cards, credit and debit cards, corporate ID badges, gift cards, and student IDs. Their balance of durability and printer compatibility makes them the most versatile option. When considering cards for integration with key fob systems, 30-mil cards are often the default and most reliable choice.
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55-mil cards: Thicker cards like 55-mil are less common today but still have niche uses. While fewer printers can handle this thickness (the EDIsecure XID 9300 being an exception), they are robust and were historically used for luggage tags or award cards requiring substantial rigidity.
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60-mil & 65-mil cards: These extra-thick cards are often referred to as “clamshell” proximity cards. Their primary use is for access control, particularly in organizations with high employee turnover where durability and ease of distribution are key. These thicker cards are robust and designed for frequent use in access control systems, sometimes working in conjunction with key fob systems for layered security.
Printer Compatibility: Matching Card Thickness to Your Equipment
Choosing the correct card thickness isn’t just about durability; it’s also critically linked to printer compatibility. Using cards that are too thick or too thin for your ID card printer can lead to printing errors, card jams, or even damage to the printer itself. Always refer to your ID card printer’s specifications to ensure you are using the recommended card thickness range. This is particularly important if you are using specialized printers like retransfer or laminating printers, or those with dual-sided printing capabilities.
Conclusion: Selecting the Right Thickness for Your ID Card Needs
Understanding ID card thickness is vital for anyone involved in managing ID systems, whether they are standalone ID cards or integrated with key fob access control. By considering the application, durability requirements, and printer compatibility, you can select the optimal card thickness to ensure your ID cards function effectively and reliably for their intended purpose. Choosing the correct thickness contributes to a smooth, efficient, and secure identification and access control system.
