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How to Change an ID Card Printer Ribbon: A Complete Step by Step Guide

December 19, 2025

Servers & Storages

ADMIN

How to Change an ID Card Printer Ribbon: A Complete Step by Step Guide

ID card printers depend on high-quality ribbons to produce crisp, durable cards, which makes ribbon maintenance essential for consistent performance. Old ribbons may wear out and can negatively affect the print quality of ID cards. Whether you are using popular ID card printer brands like Heidi, Zebra, Fargo, Entrust, Evolis, Artisjet, Matica, and Magicard, the ribbon replacement process is essential. In this guide, we will discuss how to change the ID card printer ribbon, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to keep your printer running efficiently.

Why Proper Ribbon Replacement Matters for ID Card Printers

Ribbons deplete after printing a set of cards, typically 200–1000, depending on the model and type, and the ink of the ribbon runs out. This causes faded images and color skips in the ID cards. Timely replacement avoids print defects like streaks or gaps from exhausted dye panels and ensures sharp and vibrant ID cards.

What are the Preparations Before Replacing the Ribbon?

  • Select a ribbon cartridge that is suitable for your printer model and a cleaning kit for the printer.
  • se original manufacturer consumables.
  • Power off the printer before starting the ribbon replacement process to ensure your safety.
  • Remove the old ribbon cartridge gently, and clean the ribbon path and print head area with the cleaning kit to remove dust before installing the new ribbon.

Safety note: Use gloves to avoid fingerprints or oil on the printer parts of the ribbon.

Ribbon Replacement Process

ID printer ribbons are essential for producing high-quality identification cards. An ID card printer ribbon replacement guide will be helpful in properly managing the replacement process. These are the step-by-step ID printer ribbon replacement process to change a fully used, damaged or old ID printer ribbon and prevent future problems.

Gather required items

Select the new ribbon that matches your printer.

Turn Off the Printer

Switch off the printer and unplug it for safe handling.

Remove old ribbon

Open the printer cover and remove the ribbon.

Clean the printer components

Use the cleaning kit to clean the printhead, rollers, and ribbon path.

Install ID card printer ribbon

Insert the new ribbon in the correct direction to ensure the ID card supply and take-up sides are properly aligned.

Power On the Printer

Close the printer cover, power on the printer, and perform a test print. Check the results to ensure the repair was successful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid when Replacing Ribbons in ID Card Printer

Mishandling or incorrect installation of the ribbon can cause misaligned prints, ribbon breakage, or wasted supplies. These are the common ribbon replacement mistakes that you have to avoid:

  • Using low-quality ribbons

    These can damage the printhead, cause color issues, and cause frequent ribbon breaks.

  • Handling the ribbon with bare hands

    Touching the ribbon with bare hands may leave fingerprints and dust that affect the print clarity.

  • Avoiding the cleaning process

    Skipping the cleaning of the printhead and other parts of the printer before installing the new ribbon may cause smudges or uneven printing.

  • Installing the ribbon incorrectly

    Wrong alignment or placement can lead to printing errors and card jams.

  • Not switching off the printer

    Changing the ribbon while the printer is on can cause mechanical issues or sensor errors.

When to Replace an ID Card Printer Ribbon

Considering the ID card printer ribbon lifespan is an important step in taking care of the printer. You have to replace the ribbon when you notice the following signs:

  • Reaching Ribbon Yield Limit: When the print limit of the ribbon is over, the ribbon will no longer produce prints. Each ribbon has a limit of 200 to 500 prints.
  • Poor print quality: If you notice that the card appears dull and patchy, it means that the ribbon is running slowly and has worn out. This sign indicates that the ribbon has to be replaced immediately.
  • Smudging: The ink transfers onto other cards or the printer's internal components.
  • Physical issues: You may have to change the ribbon if it is wrinkled or if the printer jams frequently.

Recommended Ribbons & Consumables

Replacing an ID card printer ribbon may be a simple step, but it directly impacts the print quality and durability of the printer. A fresh ribbon ensures your cards look sharp, colors stay vibrant, and barcodes scan correctly. Ignoring the ribbon replacement can lead to faded prints, smudges, and printing errors. Infome is here to help you choose the best ribbon for your printer. Infome provides fast delivery and genuine ID card printers and ID card printer consumables in UAE to make your printing process easier and more efficient. Moreover, we ensure that you receive expert support and warranty for every printer that you purchase from Infome. Contact us now.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

  1. What are the ID card printer consumables required for the proper functioning of ID card printers in UAE?

    You need colour ribbons, cleaning kits, and overlay films to ensure efficient working of ID card printers.

  2. Can I replace the ribbon in a Heidi CP55 printer myself?

    Yes. You can easily replace the ribbon in the Heidi CP55 printer. First, open the printer cover, remove the ribbon, clean the printer, and insert the new ribbon.

  3. How often should I replace my ID card printer ribbon?

    Replace the ribbon when the print quality drops or when the colour fades. Most ribbons last for a specific number of prints, so tracking ribbon usage can avoid interruptions.

  4. How can I prevent ribbon issues in the future?

    Ensure you use original ID card printer consumables, clean your printer regularly, store ribbons properly, and avoid touching the ribbon film. These steps help to reduce downtime and extend print head life.

  5. Where can I buy ID card printer ribbons in UAE?

    Infome supplies genuine ribbons for all major brands like Heidi, Zebra, Entrust, Fargo, and Evolis. Moreover, we provide fast delivery across all regions of UAE.

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