ID Badge Glossary

Hologram

In the identification card industry, typical “hologram-like” effects are tri-modal images (color-shifting security seals) applied in a laminate/overlay rather than true holography, which adds quick visual authentication. It is a misnomer to call them holograms, though.  The original tri-modal image, Advantage®, was developed by Armstrong Industries in Lancaster, PA, and became a standard in the driver’s license industry. Armstrong’s patent expired years ago, leading to increased competition and alternative pricing options.
See also: Tri-modal Image, Security Seal, Lamination.
Example: “The laminate’s hologram shifts color when the badge is tilted.”

ID Badge

A worn credential (often slotted or holder-mounted) that visually identifies the wearer with name, photo, and organization. May include barcode, magstripe, or RFID.
See also: ID Card, Slot, Lamination.
Example: “All visitors must display an ID badge above the waist.”

ID Card

A credential that identifies a person and their organization; typically carried (never worn). May include photo and machine-readable technologies.
See also: ID Badge, PVC Card.
Example: “Vendors are issued an ID card but must keep it available for inspection.”

International Standards Organization (ISO)

The central body that develops and publishes international standards—including card dimensions, durability, and interface protocols relevant to ID badges.
See also: CR-80, Smart Card.
Example: “Our cards comply with ISO ID-1 sizing for CR-80.”

ISO 7810

An International Standards Organization (ISO) specification defining ID-1 card dimensions (CR-80 size: 85.60 × 53.98 mm) and thickness. Basis for most PVC and composite ID cards.
See also: CR-80, International Standards Organization (ISO).
Example: “All our card stock complies with ISO 7810.”

Key Fob

A small RFID device, typically attached to a key ring, is used instead of a card for access control. It is durable and portable, but it is not suitable for personalization with photos.
See also: Radio Frequency Identification Fob (RFID).
Example: “The gym issues key fobs rather than plastic cards.”

Lamination

A clear protective patch (commonly 1-mil) is applied during personalization in a PVC card printer to enhance durability, security, and slot strength. Works best with composite PVC card stock. Legacy media like Teslin was laminated using a pouch and a physical laminator, which are rarely used today.
See also: Composite PVC, Security Seal.
Example: “We added lamination to extend badge life and protect the print.”

Laser Engraving

A high-security personalization method that etches text or images directly into the card material with a laser, making alterations nearly impossible.
See also: Personalization, Smart Card.
Example: “Government IDs feature laser engraving for tamper resistance.”

Logical Access Control

Using ID cards, smart cards, or tokens to authenticate into computer systems or networks is often combined with biometric authentication.
See also: Smart Card, Encryption.
Example: “Employees use their ID badge for logical access control to the HR portal.”

Loyalty Card

A merchant-branded card that tracks spend and applies rewards/discounts via barcode or magnetic stripe; increasingly integrated with mobile apps.
See also: Gift Card, Stored Value Card.
Example: “The museum’s loyalty card grants members store discounts.”

Magnetic Stripe

Also called a magstrip, is a magnetic recording band embedded in the card substrate. Supports single-, dual-, or three-track layouts for IDs, access, and payments; HiCo (≈4000 Oe) is more robust than LoCo (≈300 Oe).
See also: Coercivity, Oersted (Oe), Encoding.
Example: “Legacy time clocks still read Track II on the magnetic stripe.”

Magnetic Stripe Reader 

A device that reads data encoded on the magnetic stripe of a card. May be stand-alone or built into an access control system or POS terminal.
See also: Magnetic Stripe, Encoding.
Example: “The vending machines include magstripe readers for student IDs.”

Memory Card (Smart Card)

A type of smart card that stores data but has limited or no processing power. Used for access control, prepaid balances, or simple authentication.
See also: Protected Memory Card, Microprocessor Card.
Example: “The employee ID is a memory card storing the facility code.”

MIFARE®

An ISO 14443 (Type A/B) contactless smart-card family operating at 13.56 MHz. Considered the de facto open standard for photo ID badging; replaces many 125 kHz proximity deployments.
See also: Contactless Card, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC).
Example: “We standardized on MIFARE credentials for higher security and flexibility.”

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)

A security process requiring two or more credential types: something you know (PIN), something you have (card), and something you are (biometrics).
See also: Two-Factor Badging™ (2FB), Biometric Authentication.
Example: “VPN logins require MFA—a badge plus a fingerprint.”

Near Field Communication (NFC)

A high-frequency (13.56 MHz) RFID-based protocol enabling short-range data exchange; used by smartphones and readers to emulate or read contactless credentials.
See also: MIFARE®, Contactless Card, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “Employees with mobile wallets can present NFC credentials at doors.”

Oersted (Oe)

Unit of magnetic coercive force describing how strongly a magnetic stripe resists re-magnetization/erasure (e.g., 300 Oe LoCo; 2750 Oe intermediate; 4000 Oe HiCo).
See also: Coercivity, Magnetic Stripe.
Example: “The spec calls for 4000 Oe stripes to reduce accidental erasure.”

Offline

A mode where the credential-reader transaction is authenticated locally at the reader/panel without a live connection to the central system. Historically common in campus POS and used in many hotel-door systems; later syncs may push events centrally.
See also: Online, Cash Stripe.
Example: “The door locks run offline, then sync events during scheduled updates.”

Online

A mode where the reader checks a central, networked system in real time to authorize transactions and update balances/permissions. Now the norm for campus POS and widely used in access control and tracking.
See also: Offline, Physical Access Control (PAC).
Example: “Time punches post online to payroll without local card value.”

Overlay (O Panel)

A clear ribbon panel applied during printing to protect the card surface and add durability. Common in dye sublimation printing.
See also: Lamination, Reverse Transfer Printing Technology.
Example: “Each card is finished with an overlay to resist scratching.”

Personalization

The process of printing, encoding, and programming an ID card with individual data such as name, photo, and ID number. Includes both variable data (unique to each cardholder) and constant data (common to all cards).
See also: Encoding, ID Badge.
Example: “Each badge is personalized with the employee’s name, photo, and department.”

Personally Identifiable Information

Any data that can identify a specific individual, either alone or when combined with other information. Examples: full name, SSN, address, biometric records, photos, financial or medical info.
See also: Encryption, Smart Card.
Example: “Photos are considered PII, so they must be stored securely.”

Physical Access Control (PAC)

The use of cards, PINs, or biometrics to grant or deny entry to doors, gates, lockers, or cabinets. PAC systems typically combine readers, backend software, and controller hardware to enforce rights, time zones, and access groups.
See also: Access Control Card, Contactless Card.
Example: “The new PAC system supports 24/7 monitoring of all secure entrances.”

Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Card

A U.S. federal government smart card standard (FIPS 201) used to secure employee access to facilities and networks. Dual-interface (contact + contactless) cards with strong encryption.
See also: Smart Card, Microprocessor Card.
Example: “Federal contractors must carry a PIV card to access government facilities.”

Polycarbonate Card

A high-security card material stronger than PVC or composite PVC, resistant to heat and tampering. Often used for government IDs and licenses.
See also: Composite PVC, Laser Engraving.
Example: “National ID programs favor polycarbonate cards for their durability.”

Prepaid Card

A card preloaded with a fixed or user-specified value, used for purchases until the balance is zero. Many are reloadable and backed by major payment networks.
See also: Gift Card, Stored Value Card.
Example: “The library issues prepaid cards for their copier and scanner payment terminals.”

Print Head

The component in an ID card printer that applies heat to transfer ribbon ink onto card stock. Sensitive to dust, scratches, and card surface debris.
See also: Badge Printer, Dye Sublimation Printing.
Example: “A damaged print head caused streaks across the cards, and may be covered under warranty.”

Print Ribbon

A consumable roll used in printers containing dye panels (e.g., CMYK, CMYKO, CMYKK, …overlay, resin) for producing card images. Different ribbons support different print methods.
See also: Dye Sublimation Printing, Overlay (O Panel).
Example: “We replaced the print ribbon after 250 card prints.”

Proprietary Format

A closed, vendor-specific encoding or communication scheme, often used in RFID systems. Can limit interoperability and increase lock-in to a single supplier.
See also: Open Standard, RFID Bit Format.
Example: “The old system used a proprietary format that forced expensive reorders.”

Proximity Card

Also called a “prox card,” a 125 kHz passive RFID credential that transmits an encoded ID when within range of a reader. Offers low-to-medium security. Typically requires reverse transfer printing to cover surface irregularities caused by embedded chips.
See also: Contactless Card, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “Employees wave their proximity card near the reader to unlock the door.”

Proximity Reader

A device that detects and reads 125 kHz proximity cards or fobs when brought within a close range of 2″ to 4″.
See also: Proximity Card, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “The door uses a wall-mounted proximity reader.”

Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)

A cryptographic framework that uses digital certificates and key pairs to secure communications and verify identities. Frequently integrated with smart cards and microprocessor cards.
See also: Encryption, Two-Factor Badging™ (2FB).
Example: “Government IDs leverage PKI for digital signatures.”

PVC Card

A card made of polyvinyl chloride plastic, typically CR-80/Credit card size in specification, and the most common material for ID badges. Composite PVC/polyester blends are recommended for lamination to prevent warping and protect embedded electronics.
See also: Composite PVC, Lamination.
Example: “Always use PVC cards rated for your printer and laminator.”

Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID)

An RFID card communicates with the interface device via radiofrequency. It is a standard communication protocol in proximity and contactless smart cards. RFID cards can be formatted with multiple RFID formats and magnetic stripes. The most common frequencies used are 125 KHz (proximity) and 13.56 MHz (contactless.)

Radio Frequency Identification Fob (RFID)

A card that communicates with a reader using radio-frequency signals. Common frequencies include 125 kHz (proximity) and 13.56 MHz (contactless smart card).
See also: RFID Bit Format, Contactless Card, Proximity Card.
Example: “The parking garage uses RFID cards for gate access.”

Re-Transfer Film

A clear film used in reverse transfer printing. The printer first prints the image in reverse onto the film, which is then placed over the card in the printer, heat-fused to the card surface, producing durable and edge-to-edge prints.
See also: Reverse Transfer Printing Technology, Print Ribbon.
Example: “The ID cards require re-transfer film for high-quality, borderless printing.”

Re-Transfer Printer

A badge printer that uses the reverse transfer (high-definition printing) method: printing the image on film before applying it to the card. Provides superior quality and accommodates cards with embedded chips or antennas.
See also: Badge Printer, Re-Transfer Film.
Example: “We purchased a re-transfer printer to handle contactless smart cards.”

Resin Printing (noun)

A printing method using solid resin pigments (usually black, silver, gold or white) melted directly onto the card surface. Produces crisp, durable text, barcodes, or single-color images.
See also: Dye Sublimation Printing, Thermal Transfer Printing.
Example: “The serial numbers were printed using resin printing for durability.”

Registration

In printing, registration refers to the alignment of multiple colors and/or images to create a clear, sharp output. Misregistration can cause blurry edges or cut-off designs.It can also refer to the alignment of where an image starts printing on the leading and top edge so the card prints completely on the card.
See also: Edge to Edge, Dye Sublimation Printing.
Example: “The logo printed out of registration, so the colors did not align.”

Reverse Transfer Printing Technology

Also called High-Definition Printing (HDP), it is a process that prints the image in reverse onto a clear film, which is then heat-bonded to the card surface. This produces high-quality, durable images, even on cards with chips or antennae, and supports true edge-to-edge printing.
See also: Dye Sublimation Printing, Proximity Card.
Example: “We use reverse transfer printing to ensure smooth graphics over embedded antennas.”

Ribbon Panel

A segment of a print ribbon containing one color or resin type (e.g., Y, M, C, K, O). Panels are combined in sequence to produce full-color prints.
See also: Print Ribbon, Dye Sublimation Printing.
Example: “A scratch across the yellow ribbon panel caused color distortion.”

Scratch-Off Panel

A printed covering that conceals information (like a PIN or activation code) until physically scratched off. Used in prepaid or activation cards.
See also: Prepaid Card, Stored Value Card.
Example: “Gift cards are issued with a scratch-off panel hiding the PIN.”

Security Foil

A metallic foil applied to card stock for visual authentication and counterfeit deterrence. Often used with logos or seals.
See also: Security Seal, Hologram.
Example: “The driver’s license includes a silver security foil overlay.”

Security Seal

A printed or laminate-applied visual security feature, often a color-shifting tri-modal image similar to a hologram. Provides quick verification and deters counterfeiting.
See also: Hologram, Tri-modal Image.
Example: “The card stock includes a security seal visible when tilted under light.”

Shielded Badge Holder

A protective card holder lined with metallic shielding to prevent unauthorized RFID reads (anti-skimming).
See also: Skimming, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “Employees keep their credentials in shielded badge holders for security.”

Signature Panel

A writable area on a badge where the cardholder can sign is not considered reliable for authentication compared to photos or biometrics. It is very rarely issued today.
See also: ID Card, Lamination.
Example: “The back of the badge includes a signature panel for cardholder use.”

Skimming

The act of fraudulently copying card data, often from magnetic stripes or RFID cards. Particularly concerning for unshielded RFID credentials.
See also: Encryption, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “Using a shielded holder prevents RFID skimming.”

Slot

A narrow punched hole in a card for attaching clips, lanyards, or straps.
See also: Slot Punch, ID Badge.
Example: “We add a slot to each badge for lanyard attachment.”

Slot Punch

A tool (manual, desktop, or electronic) used to create slots in PVC cards.
See also: Slot.
Example: “Use a slot punch instead of ordering pre-slotted stock for best results.”

Smart Card

A card with one or more embedded semiconductor chips, available in contact or contactless formats. Used for physical access, logical access, payments, and secure identity. Types include memory cards, protected memory cards, and microprocessor cards.
See also: Contact Card, Contactless Card, MIFARE®.
Example: “Government employees often use dual-interface smart cards with both contact and contactless chips.”

Stored Value Card

A financial or prepaid card encoded with a monetary balance that decreases as purchases are made.
See also: Gift Card, Prepaid Card.
Example: “The copier deducts credits from a stored value card after each job.”

Substrate

The base material of a card (PVC, composite, polycarbonate, Teslin) onto which printing, lamination, or security features are applied.
See also: PVC Card, Polycarbonate Card.
Example: “Polycarbonate is a stronger substrate than standard PVC.”

System Integration

The process of connecting ID card systems with external applications such as physical access control (PAC), time and attendance, or HR databases. Ensures seamless data flow across platforms.
See also: Credential Management System (CMS).
Example: “Our system integration links the badging system to payroll.”

Time and Attendance (T&A)

A system that tracks employee in/out times using cards, readers, and backend software. Cards may use barcodes, magnetic stripes, or RFID for fast throughput.
See also: Barcode, Physical Access Control (PAC).
Example: “The new T&A system integrates directly with payroll.”

Teslin

A synthetic, paper-like substrate used for ID cards prior to PVC dominance. Often printed with inkjets and laminated for durability. Still used in some visitor and temporary badge solutions.
See also: Lamination.
Example: “We produced temporary numbered visitor passes made of laminated Teslin for durability.”

Thermal Transfer Printing

An older printing method that uses heat to transfer solid inks (typically black, but also other mono colors) onto card stock. Unlike dye-sublimation, colors cannot be blended; the final printed color is the last applied. 
See also: Dye Sublimation Printing, Registration.
Example: “The visitor badges were produced using thermal transfer printing for simple text and barcodes.”

Transaction Log

A recorded list of card swipes, taps, or authentications within a system. Used for audits, attendance, and security monitoring.
See also: Time and Attendance (T&A), Physical Access Control (PAC).
Example: “The transaction log showed multiple denied entries at the south door.”

Tri-modal Image

A security image applied to laminates, overlays, or card stock that shows three distinct color changes when tilted under light. Often mistaken for a hologram, but technically distinct. Provides a cost-effective anti-counterfeit measure.
See also: Hologram, Security Seal.
Example: “The badge includes a tri-modal image that shifts between green, gold, and red.”

Two-Factor Badging™ (2FB)

A two-factor authentication process developed by Express Badging Services, Inc. (2024). Combines a mobile device and the VerifyMyBadge™ app with a physical ID card to strengthen access control. Also referred to as 2 Factor Badging™ or 2FB.
See also: Physical Access Control (PAC), Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “Doctors now utilize Two-Factor Badging™—scanning their badge at secure doors after confirming their onsite presence with the VerifyMyBADGE™ app.”

Ultra-High Frequency (UHF RFID)

An RFID technology operating in the 860–960 MHz range with read distances of 40–50 feet, depending on reader strength and antenna design. Typically used for long-range tracking and vehicle access.
See also: Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC).
Example: “The parking lot system uses UHF RFID tags to identify cars from a distance.”

Variable Data Printing (VDP)

A printing process that customizes each badge with unique elements such as name, photo, or ID number, pulled from a database.
See also: Personalization, Photo ID System.
Example: “We used variable data printing to merge photos and names onto cards.”

Virtual ID

A digital credential stored on a smartphone, tablet, or wearable, functioning as an alternative to a physical badge. Often delivered via over-the-air (OTA) provisioning.
See also: Smartphone Credential, NFC.
Example: “The school allows students to use a virtual ID on their phones.”

Watermark

A faint image or pattern embedded into the card substrate or overlay, visible under certain lighting conditions. Used as a counterfeit deterrent.
See also: Security Seal, Hologram.
Example: “The new ID includes a subtle watermark for added security.”

Wiegand Card

A legacy access card technology using embedded wires that change polarity when passed through a reader. Largely replaced by modern RFID.
See also: Proximity Card, Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID).
Example: “The facility still has doors that accept Wiegand cards.”

Wiegand Format

The data format used by many access control systems (e.g., 26-bit, 37-bit). Defines the facility code, card number, and parity bits.
See also: RFID Bit Format, Proximity Card.
Example: “The new readers must support Wiegand format credentials.”

Common Acronyms

2FB – Two-Factor Badging

API: Application Programming Interface

HDP: High-Definition Printing

HID: Hughes Identification Device. As in Howard Hughes – HID Corporation

PAC: Physical Access Control

PVC: Polyvinyl chloride

QR Code: Quick Response Code

RFID: Radio Frequency Identification

SDK: Software Development Kit