Fargo Launches New High Definition Printer/Encoder.

Field Upgradeable, Modular Design Highlights the HDP5000

MINNEAPOLIS -- Fargo Electronics, Inc., a global leader in secure technologies for card identity systems, today announced the introduction of the HDP5000 card printer/encoder. Utilizing Fargo's patented High Definition Printing[TM] (HDP([R])) technology, the HDP5000 is the first true single-sided reverse image printer available commercially.

The modular design of the HDP5000 grows with the user's needs. The basic single-sided model can be upgraded in the factory or field with a dual-sided printing option, and/or a dual-sided lamination module. The lamination module applies Fargo's PolyGuard[TM] Overlaminate to both sides of the printed card simultaneously for extended card life and added security and durability. PolyGuard is a polyester "patch" that makes card designs tamper-resistant and protects them from abrasion and fading.

Factory- or field-installed encoding modules are also available for magnetic stripes and for these types of smart card technology: ISO 7816 contact smart chips; MIFARE([R]), DESFire([R]) and iCLASS([R]) contactless smart chips; and HID proximity ("prox") cards.

The fastest, most efficient HDP model ever, the HDP5000 is simple to operate and requires only minimal training. Cards, ribbons and overlaminates now come in cartridges that eliminate ribbon tears and literally load in a snap. Superior image quality and new HDP materials deliver impressive-looking cards at a lower per-card cost. And faster print speeds expedite production even in large card programs.

The HDP5000 is designed for either stand-alone printing or applications that network more than one printer/encoder together. It includes an onboard Ethernet port and print server to provide the connectivity needed for networked operations.

"The HDP5000 is the most versatile way to produce multifunctional, durable technology cards," said Steve Blake, Fargo's vice president of product marketing for systems and solutions. "Its modular design allows customers to get started with High Definition Printing, then add options as their budgets and needs grow. Plus, its ease of use means that the printer can be used in applications where multiple operators are producing cards - with minimal training."

HDP is the preferred technology for the personalization of RFID proximity, laser and smart cards with computer chips. It was chosen by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) for its Common Access Card Project.

With a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price starting at under $5,000, the HDP5000 is available through Fargo Solution Providers.

About Fargo

Founded in 1974, Fargo Electronics is a global leader in the development of secure technologies for identity card issuance systems, including secure card printer/encoders, materials and software. The company has sold more than 140,000 systems in the U.S. and over 80 other countries worldwide. Fargo card issuance systems reduce vulnerabilities and potential for loss of time, money and lives by continually improving the security of identity credentials. Fargo provides physical, information and transaction security for a wide variety of applications and industries, including government, corporate, national IDs, drivers' licenses, universities, schools and membership.

Fargo is an HID Global company. HID is a leading supplier and manufacturer in the access control industry, serving customers worldwide with proximity and contactless smart card technologies; central station managed access controllers; secure and custom card solutions; photo ID and ID application control software; and electronic cylinders. HID Global is part of the ASSA ABLOY family of companies.

Fargo is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA. Fargo markets its products through a global distribution network of professional security integrators. For more information about Fargo, visit www.fargo.com.