BADGE PRINTING

GUIDELINES

This specification provides Accu-Time Systems’ recommendations for badge printing and construction by outside vendors.  This is not meant as a comprehensive specification, but as guideline, which ensures high read rates.  This specification pertains solely to the printing of Code 3 of 9 bar codes.

1. PHYSICAL SPECIFICATIONS

.           The maximum badge width is .038”. (Lamination included)

.        The laminate covering the bar code must be no thicker than 010” and transparent to light in the 600 to 880 nanometer wavelength range.  The external surface of the material may have a matte finish

2. PRINTING SPECIFICATIONS

.        The print contrast ratio (PCR) of the bar code should be greater than 75% for light in the 600 to 880 nanometer wavelength range.

.          The minimum width of a narrow bar code element should be 010”.

.       The ratio of wide to narrow bar code elements depends on the bar code.  For Code 3 of  9 the ratio is in the range of  2.2:1 to 3:1.

.        A quiet zone of at least .250” is required on each end of the bar code. There can be no transitions in this area such as a stock to stock seam or the beginning of the blocking pattern.

.          A blocking pattern may be used over the bar code to resist copying.  Red is typically used.  The blocking pattern must be transparent to light in the 600 to 880 nanometer wavelength range.

.         The bar code height should be at least .500”

.       The bar code should be located such that it is parallel to on side of the card and the midline of the code is .400” from the edge.

.        A high quality printing method should be used which will limit bar imperfections (voids, smears) to .005” diameter of less.

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