How does the tipper work

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A tipper (or embossing) is a device or process used to apply raised characters (raised letters, numbers, or other symbols) to plastic cards. This process is often used to create bank cards, loyalty cards, or ID cards. A tipper can be part of a larger piece of equipment, such as an embosser or a full-fledged card line, and its main purpose is to add visual and tactile elements that can be used to imprint information on checks or other documents. Let's take a closer look at how a tipper works.

1. The main purpose of the tipper​

The tipper is used for:

• Application of relief symbols on plastic cards.
• Create raised elements such as card number, cardholder name and expiration date.
• Providing the ability to use the card with carbon paper (for example, for printing data on checks).
• Adding an extra layer of protection and personalization.

2. How does the tipper work?​

2.1. Operating principle​

• The tipper uses mechanical pressure to create raised symbols on the surface of the card:
  • The plastic card is placed into the device.
  • Metal stamps (or dies) press symbols onto the surface of the card under pressure.
  • As a result, the symbols become raised on one side of the card and recessed on the other.

2.2. Stages of work​

1. Data preparation:
   • Information (such as card number, cardholder name, expiration date) is entered into the system via a computer or manually.
2. Loading map:
   • A blank plastic card is placed into the device slot.
3. Application of symbols:
   • Stamps with the required symbols rise and under pressure create raised marks on the map.
4. Quality control:
   • After embossing, the clarity and correctness of the symbols are checked.

3. Types of embossing​

3.1. Embossing​

• Raised symbols that can be felt with your fingers.
• Used for classic bank cards and documents.

3.2. Debossing​

• Indented symbols that are recessed into the surface of the card.
• Less common, but sometimes used for decorative purposes.

4. Where is the tipper used?​

4.1. Bank cards​

• Most bank cards have embossed symbols:
  • Card number.
  • Holder's name.
  • Validity period.
• These symbols are used to print information on checks through carbon paper.

4.2. Loyalty cards​

• Loyalty programs often use embossing to personalize cards.

4.3. Identity cards​

• Some ID cards have embossed data for increased security.

4.4. Counterfeit cards​

• Important: Tippers are sometimes used for illegal purposes, such as creating counterfeit cards. This is illegal and punishable by criminal liability.

5. Advantages and disadvantages of the tipper​

5.1. Advantages​

• Durability: Embossed characters are abrasion resistant.
• Versatility: Possibility to use the card with carbon paper.
• Personalization: Quickly create unique cards.

5.2. Disadvantages​

• Limitations: Modern technologies (eg contactless cards) make embossing less relevant.
• Speed: Manual tippers operate slowly compared to automatic devices.
• Risk of counterfeiting: Tippers can be used to create counterfeit cards.

6. Contemporary relevance​

With the development of digital technologies, the role of embossing is decreasing:

• Many modern cards (for example, contactless cards) do not require raised symbols.
• Most transactions are conducted online where embossed data is not required.
• However, embossing is still used for the production of classic bank cards and documents.

7. Conclusion​

A tipper is an important device for creating personalized cards with raised symbols. Although its use is gradually declining due to the development of contactless technologies, it remains an important tool for issuing classic bank cards and documents.

Key takeaway: Tippers ensure durability and data protection on cards, but their use is limited by modern technologies. It is important to remember that using tippers for illegal purposes (such as creating counterfeit cards) is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.