Zebra 800012-601 Clear Retransfer Film
Zebra 800012-601 Clear Retransfer Film is a premium consumable specifically designed for Zebra ZXP Series 8 and Series 9 retransfer card printers. This high-quality transfer film is an essential component in the retransfer printing process, where card images are first printed onto the underside of the film and then thermally…
Zebra 800012-601 Clear Retransfer Film represents an essential consumable specifically engineered for Zebra ZXP Series 8 and Series 9 retransfer card printers. This high-performance film is a critical component in the retransfer printing process, delivering exceptional print quality, durability, and versatility for organizations requiring professional-grade identification credentials. Designed with precision and manufactured to exacting standards, the 800012-601 exemplifies Zebra’s commitment to quality and reliability in the identification card industry.
Technology and Design
The 800012-601 utilizes advanced retransfer technology, which employs a two-step process called reverse thermal transfer. Unlike direct-to-card (DTC) printing, the retransfer process first prints a high-resolution image in reverse directly onto the clear receiving layer carried by the 800012-601 flexible, intermediate film. The dye diffusion process prints the image to the film and then uses heat and pressure to thermally transfer the image and the entire image-receiving intermediate film onto the card surface.
This sophisticated design offers several key advantages:
- Superior Image Quality: By separating the image creation step from the process of applying the image to the card, retransfer technology relieves many of the constraints of direct-to-card printing and optimizes dye quality—regardless of card material.
- Over-the-Edge Printing: The retransfer process enables true edge-to-edge images, giving users access to the entire card surface without white borders.
- Material Flexibility: The technology is relatively insensitive to card materials, allowing for high-quality images on a wide variety of card types, including smart cards, proximity cards, and cards with uneven surfaces.
- Enhanced Durability: The clear film layer provides an inherent protective coating over the printed image, increasing resistance to wear, scratches, and fading.
The 800012-601 film is constructed with high-quality materials featuring specialized coatings that enable precise image transfer while minimizing environmental impact. Each roll is designed to work in harmony with Zebra ZXP Series 8 and 9 printers’ thermal printheads, ensuring consistent transfer and optimal image quality.
RFID Technology and Smart Recognition
The 800012-601 retransfer film incorporates advanced RFID tagging technology, which provides several operational benefits:
- Automatic Recognition: The printer automatically identifies the film type and optimizes settings accordingly.
- Quality Assurance: The RFID system ensures only genuine Zebra consumables are used, maintaining print quality and warranty coverage.
- Usage Tracking: The system monitors film usage and provides alerts when supplies are running low.
- Simplified Operation: Reduces the need for manual configuration, minimizing operator errors.
This intelligent feature is part of Zebra’s i Series True Colours ecosystem, which integrates printer hardware, software, and consumables for optimal performance and reliability.
Print Quality and Performance
The 800012-601 clear retransfer film delivers exceptional print quality across a range of applications:
- Image Clarity: Produces sharp, clear images with excellent edge definition, even for small details and intricate designs.
- Color Reproduction: When used with appropriate color ribbons, enables vibrant, true-to-life colors that accurately represent logos, photographs, and design elements.
- Text Sharpness: Ensures precise, readable text, even at small font sizes.
- Barcode Quality: Delivers high-contrast, scannable barcodes with the definition needed for reliable reading.
- Consistent Coverage: Provides uniform application without banding, streaking, or spotting, ensuring professional results for every card.
- Print Capacity: Each roll yields approximately 1,250 single-sided prints or 625 dual-sided prints, making it economical for medium to high-volume printing operations.
Durability and Protection
The 800012-601 retransfer film provides essential protection for printed cards:
- Abrasion Resistance: Creates a barrier that protects printed elements from everyday wear and handling.
- UV Protection: Helps prevent fading when cards are exposed to light, maintaining image 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 years under normal usage conditions.
- Tamper Evidence: The film shows evidence of tampering if someone attempts to alter the card content, adding a layer of security.
Security Features
The 800012-601 retransfer film contributes to card security in several ways:
- Fraud Protection: The transfer film provides fraud protection since the film easily shows tamper evidence.
- Holographic Compatibility: Retransfer technology allows the use of transfer films with holographic images and laminates with a multitude of security features.
- Optical Variable Ink Support: Compatible with security features such as optical variable ink and morphing elements when used with appropriate security ribbons.
- Layered Security: The retransfer process creates a “sandwiched” image between the film and the card, making alteration more difficult.
Compatibility and Integration
The 800012-601 clear retransfer film is designed for seamless integration with the Zebra ecosystem:
- Printer Compatibility: Compatible exclusively with Zebra ZXP Series 8 and Series 9 retransfer card printers.
- Card Compatibility: Optimized for printing on various card types, including PVC, composite, polycarbonate, and smart cards.
- Ribbon Compatibility: Must be paired with a color or monochrome ribbon to create the printed image that will be transferred to the card.
- Software Integration: Works seamlessly with Zebra card printing software, which automatically adjusts print parameters based on the film type for optimal results.
- Genuine Zebra Product: As a genuine Zebra consumable, the 800012-601 is guaranteed to work properly with ZXP Series 8 and 9 printers and maintain warranty coverage.
Applications
The 800012-601 retransfer film is suitable for a wide range of applications across various industries:
Government and Public Sector
- National ID cards with high-security features
- Driver’s licenses and vehicle registration cards
- Voter identification cards
- Government employee credentials
- Public service access cards
Corporate and Enterprise
- Employee ID badges with smart card technology
- Access control credentials
- Visitor management cards
- Corporate event badges
- Facility access cards with proximity features
Education
- Student and faculty ID cards with multiple technologies
- Campus access credentials
- Library cards with smart chip technology
- Event passes and meal cards
- Multi-function campus cards
Healthcare
- Staff identification badges with secure access features
- Patient identification cards
- Insurance cards with embedded chips
- Laboratory access credentials
- Pharmacy benefit cards
Financial Services
- Banking cards with chip technology
- Credit and debit cards
- Membership and loyalty cards
- Insurance identification cards
- Prepaid cards with security features
Transportation and Logistics
- Transportation passes with RFID technology
- Fleet management cards
- Shipping and logistics credentials
- Airport security badges
- Transit system access cards
Printhead Lifespan Benefits
One significant advantage of the retransfer printing process using the 800012-601 film is the positive impact on printhead longevity:
- Reduced Wear: Printhead lifespan improves dramatically because retransfer printers print on soft transfer film panels and not on rigid card substrates as with traditional direct-to-card printers.
- Lower Maintenance: This results in a reduction in overhead for spare printheads and lowered maintenance workload.
- Improved ROI: The extended printhead life contributes to a better return on investment for the printing system as a whole.
- Consistent Quality: Less printhead wear means more consistent print quality over the life of the printer.
Storage and Handling
To maintain optimal performance and maximize shelf life, the 800012-601 retransfer film 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 films remain viable for up to 1 year from the date of manufacture when stored properly.
- Post-Opening Lifespan: Once opened, the film should be used within 6 months for best results.
- Handling Precautions: Avoid touching the printing surface of the film 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 film material.
- Packaging: The film comes in sealed packaging that protects it from environmental contaminants until ready for use.
Environmental Considerations
The 800012-601 retransfer film reflects Zebra’s commitment to environmental responsibility:
- Material Selection: The film is designed to minimize environmental impact while maintaining performance.
- Efficient Usage: The film 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 film.
- Compliance: Meets relevant environmental regulations and standards for printing consumables.
- Green Initiatives: The retransfer process is relatively insensitive to card materials, allowing for high-quality images on biodegradable cards, enabling “green” initiatives.
Quality Assurance and Certification
As part of Zebra’s i Series True Colours line of consumables, the 800012-601 retransfer film undergoes rigorous quality control processes:
- Testing and Validation: Extensively tested and validated by Zebra 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 Zebra Product: Authenticated as a genuine Zebra consumable, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with Zebra printers.
- Warranty Compliance: Use of genuine Zebra consumables maintains the validity of printer warranties, providing peace of mind for organizations.
Technical Specifications
- Film Type: Clear Retransfer Film
- Yield: 1,250 prints (single-sided) or 625 prints (dual-sided)
- Compatible Printers: Zebra ZXP Series 8 and Series 9
- Compatible Cards: PVC, composite, polycarbonate, and smart cards
- Card Format: CR-80 (85.6 mm × 54 mm)
- Printing Technology: Retransfer (reverse thermal transfer)
- Model Number: 800012-601
- Manufacturer: Zebra Technologies
- RFID Tagged: Yes, for automatic printer recognition and settings optimization
Conclusion
The Zebra 800012-601 Clear Retransfer Film represents a high-quality solution for organizations requiring professional-grade identification cards with superior image quality and durability. With its ability to produce vibrant, edge-to-edge credentials efficiently, this film helps organizations create identification cards that combine visual appeal with practical functionality and enhanced security. As part of Zebra’s comprehensive ecosystem of printing solutions, the 800012-601 exemplifies the company’s commitment to quality, reliability, and innovation in the identification card industry.
