Photo Identification Systems

Photo identification systems are used by organizations to verify membership, limit access, and allow entry. Some more sophisticated systems have other features that allow them to function as attendance recorders and e-cash monitors as well. The level of security it offers and the number of jobs it can perform will determine the cost of a photo ID system, but most more than pay for themselves by making buildings and the people and items inside safer.

There was a time when photo IDs were only required at government agencies or companies that housed extremely sensitive information. However, over the years, security has become more of an issue for everyone, so smaller businesses have begun to adopt ID systems. Schools have also made it a common practice to require students and faculty to wear IDs. This makes it easier for teachers and administrators to be sure that everyone on campus has a reason to be there.

Photo Identification Systems on University Campuses

Most IDs for grade school students are very basic. They have the child's photo and name. The card might reflect the school's colors or a picture of the mascot might also adorn it. The IDs usually do not interact with any kind of ID reader, and they do not generally grant access to secured areas.

University ID systems tend to be more complex than their lower level counterparts. Smart systems can be used that allow students' meal plan information to be stored on cards. Also, the IDs can be encoded to allow students access to their particular dormitories. Universities have a large number of visitors on a daily basis. Outfitting student cards with certain capabilities will ensure that a person using a visitor card, or someone with no card at all, cannot get into a building that he should not have admittance to.

Types of Photo ID Systems

ID cards and the equipment used to create them can possess a number of different features. Barcode, magnetic stripe, proximity, and smart cards interact with readers differently. They also can offer varying levels of security.

Systems can also employ different printing techniques to make photo IDs more secure. Image ghosting reproduces a semi-transparent version of an image and offsets it from the original image. Ultra violet printing produces text or designs that can only be seen under UV lights. Micro printing, when viewed by the naked eye, appears to be a solid line. However, when placed under a microscope or magnifying glass, distinct text will appear. Holographic overlays create the most secure cards by applying a hologram onto a special overlaminate film.

Requirements For Photo ID Systems

If an organization wants to produce its own IDs, it will need to have a complete system in place. The basic elements needed are ID software, an ID printer, and a digital camera. The type of software and printer required varies depending on the type of card that is to be produced. For instance, holograms and other advanced techniques will require specialized printers.

Professional services can be used to install any type of photo ID system. The most complex systems can stand-alone or interact with systems that are already in place. The service can provide training, accessories, and they can even supply an organization with encoded cards.