Making the ID Card

This is a multistage process - it may be carried out at a single location (Centralised Production) or spread across the country (Localised Production). Dependent upon the production levels envisaged and budget available, each of the processes may be semi or fully automated, or even manual. There may even be a mix of all of these.

a) Capturing the Data

Data capture from the Application Forms falls into two areas:-

i) Text Input

Each Application Form has a barcode which is unique to it. This is not the ID number but a key to tie all data to that particular application. The barcode will be scanned and the text data manually keyed into the database.

ii) Images Input

Each Application Form is scanned using either a manually fed or automated Formscanner: the barcode is read, the applicant's photo and signature scanned, digitized and stored.

b) Printing

Printing is carried out on A4 sheets of security printed basestock. Although inkjet technology is improving, generally laser, (colour or black and white) is recommended on cost and reliability. Dependent upon the card size there may be as many as 8 (ID1 double sided) cards to a sheet.

Generally, dependent upon printers available, the option would be 8 up double sided to a sheet, or 4 up single sided.

c) Finishing

Finishing is the term applied to the encapsulation and punching to size of the finished card from the sheet. Dependent upon throughput this may be carried out as a manual, semi or fully automated process. Options on this can include embossing and laying of holograms or foil features. The E2030 system provides an automated response to full finishing for the smaller user, typically 800 cards per hour. The E2035 which has enjoyed a good volume of sales since launch in 2004 can include optional in line embossing, registered laminate and much higher throughput - up to 3,000 cards per hour. These systems are made to order and can be designed to user requirement.

d) Quality Audit / Sorting

When cards have passed through production there will be a requirement to complete the audit trail. Generally this will be carried out by scanning a machine readable feature on the card - barcode or OCR. Not only will this enable the production audit trail to be completed, but at the same time the readability of the feature is tested. Automated systems to carry out this function are termed QA Scanners and can be fitted with a variety of readers to suit the particular feature being read on the card.

An extension of this task is provided by the Sorter. This comprises an extended QA Scanner installed with any number of output Conveyors which may, under software control, output cards to specific locations to cater for Zip codes, regions etc. This is particularly useful in Central Production facilities where cards have to be returned to regions for issue.