A DTC printer, which stands for Direct-to-Card printer, is a technology widely used for printing on plastic cards.
Understanding Direct-to-Card (DTC) Technology
Based on the provided reference, a Direct-to-Card (DTC) printer is a type of printer that employs a specific method for transferring images and text onto the surface of a plastic card. This technology has been in use for a significant period, predating re-transfer printers.
Here's what characterizes a DTC printer according to the reference:
- Direct Printing: It is used to print images directly onto the surface of a plastic card. This means the printhead comes into direct contact with the card surface during the printing process.
- Common Application: It is the most common technology used by photo ID card systems. This highlights its prevalence in applications requiring personalized plastic cards like identification badges, membership cards, or loyalty cards.
- History: Direct-to-Card printers have been available for a substantial amount of time, much longer than re-transfer printers.
In essence, a DTC printer directly applies the print information onto the card's surface using a thermal printhead and ribbon, making it a popular and established method for creating personalized plastic cards, particularly for photo ID purposes.
