Re-transfer Card Printers
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Re-transfer printers differ from "direct to card" printers. The print head on a direct to card printer applies the ribbon colours, via dye sublimation, directly to the card to print the image. Re-transfer printers print on to the laminate material, which is then applied to the card with a heated roller. The print head on a re-transfer machine never touches the card surface directly or indirectly through the ribbon.
Re-transfer and reverse transfer mean the same. Re-transfer derives from Reverse Transfer. Major card manufacturers recommend using a reverse transfer printer - check Schlage-Allegion's Card Printing and Handling Guide.