Evolis R5F208M100 YMCKO Color Ribbon
Evolis R5F208M100 YMCKO Color Ribbon is a high-quality printing consumable specifically designed for the Evolis Primacy 2 ID card printer. This premium ribbon features five distinct panels (Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black, and Overlay) that work together to produce vibrant, full-color images with exceptional clarity and durability. With a yield of…
Evolis R5F208M100 YMCKO Color Ribbon represents a premium printing consumable specifically engineered for the Evolis Primacy 2 ID card printer series. This high-performance ribbon delivers exceptional color reproduction, image quality, and card protection, making it an essential component for organizations requiring professional-grade identification credentials. Designed with precision and manufactured to exacting standards, the R5F208M100 exemplifies Evolis’ commitment to quality and reliability in the identification card industry.
Technology and Design
The R5F208M100 utilizes advanced thermal transfer technology to produce vibrant, durable printed cards. The ribbon’s sophisticated design incorporates five distinct panels that work in sequence during the printing process:
- Yellow (Y) Panel: Transfers yellow dye to the card surface, forming one of the primary colors in the CMYK color model.
- Magenta (M) Panel: Applies magenta dye, the second primary color component.
- Cyan (C) Panel: Delivers cyan dye, completing the three primary colors needed for full-color reproduction.
- Black (K) Panel: Provides deep, true black for text, barcodes, and other monochrome elements, ensuring optimal readability and scan quality.
- Overlay (O) Panel: Applies a transparent protective varnish across the entire card surface, enhancing durability and resistance to wear.
The ribbon is constructed with a PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) base featuring thin layers of specialized coatings. These coatings contain a very low concentration of colorant that is insoluble in water, reflecting Evolis’ attention to both performance and environmental considerations. Each panel measures 98mm in length (3.86″), providing consistent coverage across standard CR-80 cards.
Print Quality and Performance
The R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon delivers exceptional print quality across a range of applications:
- Color Reproduction: Capable of reproducing up to 16 million distinct colors, allowing for photographic-quality images, subtle gradients, and precise color matching.
- Resolution and Clarity: Works with the Primacy 2 printer to produce sharp, clear text and images with excellent edge definition, even for small font sizes and intricate designs.
- Consistent Coverage: Provides uniform color application without banding, streaking, or spotting, ensuring professional results for every card.
- Print Capacity: Each ribbon yields approximately 300 single-sided full-color prints, making it economical for medium-volume printing operations.
- Printing Speed: Optimized for the Primacy 2 printer’s capabilities, allowing for efficient production of up to 225 full-color cards per hour (single-sided).
Durability and Protection
The overlay panel of the R5F208M100 ribbon provides essential protection for printed cards:
- Abrasion Resistance: The 1.1-micron thick overlay creates a barrier that protects printed elements from everyday wear and handling.
- UV Protection: Helps prevent fading when cards are exposed to light, maintaining color vibrancy over time.
- Chemical Resistance: Offers some protection against mild cleaning agents and environmental contaminants.
- Extended Lifespan: Properly printed and protected cards can maintain their appearance and functionality for up to 3 years under normal usage conditions.
- Tamper Evidence: While not providing the security level of lamination, the overlay does show evidence of tampering if someone attempts to alter the card content.
Compatibility and Integration
The R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon is designed for seamless integration with the Evolis Primacy 2 ecosystem:
- Printer Compatibility: Exclusively compatible with the Evolis Primacy 2 and Primacy 2 Lamination card printer models.
- Card Compatibility: Optimized for printing on standard PVC and composite cards, including both blank white cards and pre-printed cards.
- Software Integration: Works seamlessly with Evolis Premium Suite® software, which automatically adjusts print parameters based on the ribbon type for optimal results.
- Smart Ribbon Recognition: Features an embedded chip that allows the printer to automatically recognize the ribbon type, optimizing print settings accordingly.
- Easy Installation: Incorporates a user-friendly loading design that simplifies ribbon replacement, reducing downtime during consumable changes.
Applications
The R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon is suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries:
Corporate and Enterprise
- Employee ID badges with color photos and corporate branding
- Visitor management credentials
- Corporate event badges
- Facility access cards
Education
- Student and faculty ID cards with color photos
- Library cards
- Campus access credentials
- Event passes and meal cards
Healthcare
- Staff identification badges with color coding by department
- Patient identification cards
- Visitor passes
- Laboratory access credentials
Retail and Hospitality
- Loyalty program cards with vibrant branding
- Membership cards
- Gift cards with full-color graphics
- VIP customer identification
Government and Public Sector
- Municipal employee ID cards
- Public transportation passes
- Voter registration cards
- Community service access cards
Storage and Handling
To maintain optimal performance and maximize shelf life, the R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon should be handled and stored according to these guidelines:
- Storage Environment: Store in a cool, dry environment with temperatures between 5-25°C (41-77°F) and relative humidity between 20-70%.
- Shelf Life: Unopened ribbons remain viable for up to 1 year from the date of purchase when stored properly.
- Post-Opening Lifespan: Once opened, the ribbon should be used within 3 months for best results.
- Handling Precautions: Avoid touching the printing surface of the ribbon to prevent fingerprints or contaminants that could affect print quality.
- Protection from Elements: Keep away from direct sunlight, dust, and chemical exposure to prevent degradation of the ribbon material.
- Packaging: The ribbon comes in sealed packaging that protects it from environmental contaminants until ready for use.
Environmental Considerations
The R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon reflects Evolis’ commitment to environmental responsibility:
- Material Selection: The PET base and specialized coatings are designed to minimize environmental impact while maintaining performance.
- Low Colorant Concentration: The very low concentration of colorant insoluble in water reduces potential environmental concerns.
- Efficient Usage: The ribbon design maximizes the number of cards that can be printed per roll, reducing waste and replacement frequency.
- Packaging: Utilizes minimal packaging materials while ensuring adequate protection for the ribbon.
- Compliance: Meets relevant environmental regulations and standards for printing consumables.
Quality Assurance and Certification
As part of the Evolis High Trust® line of consumables, the R5F208M100 YMCKO ribbon undergoes rigorous quality control processes:
- Testing and Validation: Extensively tested and validated by Evolis R&D and Quality departments to ensure consistent performance and reliability.
- Manufacturing Standards: Produced in facilities adhering to strict quality management systems and environmental standards.
- Genuine Evolis Product: Authenticated as a genuine Evolis consumable, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with Evolis printers.
- Warranty Compliance: Use of genuine Evolis consumables maintains the validity of printer warranties, providing peace of mind for organizations.
Technical Specifications
- Ribbon Type: YMCKO (Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black, Overlay)
- Yield: 300 prints per roll
- Panel Length: 98 mm (3.86″)
- Overlay Thickness: 1.1 microns
- Base Material: PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate)
- Compatible Printers: Evolis Primacy 2 and Primacy 2 Lamination
- Compatible Cards: PVC and composite cards
- Card Format: CR-80 (85.6 mm × 54 mm)
- Printing Technology: Dye sublimation/thermal transfer
- Color Capability: Up to 16.7 million colors
- Packaging Dimensions: Approximately 7.6 x 6.6 x 2.3″ (19.3 x 16.8 x 5.8 cm)
- Weight: Approximately 0.515 lb (234 g)
Conclusion
The Evolis R5F208M100 YMCKO Color Ribbon represents a high-quality solution for organizations requiring professional-grade color ID cards. With its ability to produce vibrant, durable credentials efficiently, this ribbon helps organizations create identification cards that combine visual appeal with practical functionality. As part of Evolis’ comprehensive ecosystem of printing solutions, the R5F208M100 exemplifies the company’s commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation in the identification card industry.
