Credentia Launches ID Works Basic Edition ID Software; Easy-to-Use, Streamlined Package Enables Simple Migration to More Advanced Packages in The ID Works Family.

LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Sept. 27, 1999--

Credentia, a Datacard Group company, today introduced ID Works(TM) Basic Edition identification software at the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) '99 seminar and exhibit in Las Vegas.

The software, designed specifically for start-up ID programs, provides the essential tools for creating card designs and production forms, entering and retrieving data, capturing images and sending jobs to card printers.

"This new addition to the ID Works family extends all the benefits of the industry's most powerful, flexible and easy-to-use identification software to entry-level card issuers," said Eric Freudenheim, vice president of product marketing for Credentia. "It provides a solid first step into this software family, as well as a seamless migration path to other, more advanced ID Works packages as a program's needs increase."

ID Works Basic Edition allows operators to enter and retrieve data from any Microsoft(R) Access database, and capture images using TWAIN-compatible image capture devices, or the automatic, "hands-free" Credentia(TM) digital camera. The software also encodes magnetic stripes and bar codes, works with a broad range of industry-leading card printers and offers multi-level security and a full user audit trail.

According to Freudenheim, operators with little or no software experience will find ID Works Basic Edition easy to learn and use. "Ease-of-use is the cornerstone of all ID Works software, and Basic Edition is no exception," Freudenheim said. "It features simple, point-and-click navigation for virtually foolproof card design and production. Plus, customizable templates, online Help and a guided online tour will quickly turn first-time users into expert operators."

Basic Edition is the latest of several packages in the ID Works family. ID Works Standard Edition software offers a powerful, feature-rich solution for larger card issuance programs with more sophisticated needs. Standard Designer and Standard Production modules enable card issuers to operate card design and production programs independently. ID Works also includes a Software Developer's Kit, which allows system developers to customize applications of their own.

"With the introduction of the Basic Edition package, there's something for card issuers of all types and sizes in the ID Works family," Freudenheim said. "Plus, no matter how a program's needs change, card issuers will find a perfect fit from a platform they already know and trust."

Credentia offers identity systems designed to protect people, property and profits in an increasingly digital world. Credentia systems harness the power of smart cards, digital imaging, biometrics, Internet access and other emerging technologies. Solutions include tools for card personalization and identity management, as well as the world's best-selling line of photo ID systems, software and printers. Credentia is a Datacard Group company. Datacard Corporation, doing business as Datacard Group, is privately held and based in Minnetonka, Minn. Datacard Group serves customers in more than 120 countries. (www.credentia.com)