Table of Contents
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- What is High Definition Printing (HDP) and why does it matter?
- 1. HID FARGO HDP5000e: The New Standard
- 2. HID FARGO HDP6600: The High-Speed Workhorse
- Industry Applications: Which HDP is Right for You?
- Conclusion: Why HDP is the Future of ID Issuance
- Expert Support: The Groove Advantage
- Order your High Definition Fargo Printers from Groove Today!
The world of secure identification has shifted with the the HID Fargo HDP (High Definition Printing) family. As organizations move toward smart cards with embedded chips and complex security features, traditional direct-to-card (DTC) printing often falls short. Enter the HID FARGO HDP (High Definition Printing) family.
By utilizing retransfer technology, these printers provide a level of durability and visual "pop" that standard printers cannot match. This guide breaks down the HDP lineup to help you choose the right solution for your organization.
What is High Definition Printing (HDP) and why does it matter?
How does HDP technology differ from standard ID card printing?
In standard Direct-to-Card (DTC) printing, the printhead applies heat directly to the ribbon and the card. If the card surface is uneven (common with smart cards), you get "ink dropouts" or white spots.
High Definition Printing (Retransfer) solves this by printing the image onto a clear intermediate film first. That film is then thermally fused to the card’s surface.
The Benefits:
Over-the-Edge Coverage: No white borders; the image covers 100% of the card.
Smart Card Ready: Because the printhead never touches the card, it safely prints over embedded chips and antennae.
Built-in Durability: The retransfer film acts as an extra layer of protection against daily wear and tear.
1. HID FARGO HDP5000e: The New Standard
The HDP5000e is the 7th-generation iteration of the industry-leading HDP5000. It is designed for reliability and ease of use in medium-to-large-scale environments.
Key Specs: 300 dpi resolution, 100-card input hopper, USB and Ethernet connectivity.
Print Speed: Approximately 150 cards per hour (YMC with transfer).
Best For: Corporations, mid-sized universities, and healthcare facilities.
What makes the "e" version better than the original HDP5000?
The HDP5000e features an updated electronics platform and a new SmartScreen™ graphical interface. It offers faster processing and is fully compatible with HID FARGO Connect™, allowing you to manage your card office from the cloud.
Fargo HDP5000e Single Sided ID Card Printer
$4,661.25
$7,620.00
Fargo HDP5000e Single Sided High Definition ID Card Printer The New Replacement High Definition Printer for the Discontinued Fargo HDP5000. Built on seven generations of proven retransfer technology over the last 25 years, the HID FARGO HDP5000e ID card printer… read more
2. HID FARGO HDP6600: The High-Speed Workhorse
The HDP6600 redefined the retransfer market by solving the "slow startup" problem commonly associated with high-definition printers.
Key Specs: 600 dpi standard, iON™ (Instant On) technology, GreenCircle® Certified.
Print Speed: Up to 230 cards per hour (YMCK).
Best For: Large-scale bureaus, high-volume universities, and government ID projects.
What is iON technology?
Traditionally, retransfer printers take several minutes to heat up. The HDP6600’s iON technology allows the printer to reach optimal operating temperature in under 60 seconds. Combined with waste-less lamination, it reduces your cost per card and increases environmental efficiency.
Fargo HDP6600 Single Sided Laminating ID Card Printer
$4,810.15
$7,945.59
The FARGO® Single-Sided HDP6600 from HID Global is ideal for organizations of any size that need retransfer printing technology to routinely issue secure and durable, high definition IDs or cards at high speeds. As a cost-effective, eco-friendly and reliable solution,… read more
Industry Applications: Which HDP is Right for You?
Government & Law Enforcement
For national IDs and driver’s licenses, the HDP5000e or HDP6600 are the gold standards. Their ability to handle holographic laminates ensures that the cards are nearly impossible to forge.
Higher Education
Universities often use "One-Card" systems for access, dining, and library services. The HDP5000e is perfect here, as it reliably prints on the smart chips required for these multi-functional uses.
Healthcare
Hospitals require high-definition photos for quick staff identification and durable cards that can withstand daily sanitization. The HDP5600 provides the crisp imagery needed for high-stakes visual security.
Conclusion: Why HDP is the Future of ID Issuance
Choosing a Fargo HDP printer isn't just about getting a better-looking card; it’s about investing in security and longevity. Whether you need the blistering speed of the HDP6600, or the versatility of the HDP5000e, the HID Fargo HDP family ensures your cards are as secure as the facilities they protect.
Expert Support: The Groove Advantage
At Groove Identification Solutions, we don’t just sell printers; we ensure they stay operational. As an Authorized HID Global Solution Provider and a Certified ID Card Printer Repair Centre, our team is factory-trained to support the entire Fargo HDP lineup. Whether you are troubleshooting an HDP5000e or need advanced calibration for a high-speed HDP6600, our experts are here to help.
We understand that downtime is not an option for your security operations. That’s why we offer free phone support to help you diagnose issues quickly and get back to printing. If your hardware requires hands-on care, our certified technicians provide comprehensive repair and maintenance services designed to extend the life of your investment. From major government agencies to local schools, organizations across Canada trust Groove for technical excellence and genuine Fargo parts. Have a question about your printer? Give us a call 1-888-940-3645 —our HID-certified specialists are ready to assist.
