How to emboss a card

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Card embossing is the process of creating raised symbols on a plastic card, such as the card number, cardholder name, and expiration date. This method is widely used for bank cards, loyalty cards, and ID cards. Raised symbols make the information easy to read by hand (e.g. through carbon paper) and add an element of personalization. Let's look at how to emboss a card step by step.

1. What do you need for embossing?​

To emboss the card you will need:

• Plastic card: Typically a standard card measuring 85.6 x 54 mm (ISO/IEC 7810 ID-1).
• Embosser: A device for creating raised characters.
• Stamps or dies: Metal pieces with symbols that will be applied to the card.
• Computer or manual data entry (optional): To automatically transfer information to the device.
• Protective materials: For example, laminating film to protect against damage.

2. Step by step embossing process​

2.1. Data preparation​

• Enter the information you want to emboss:
  • Card number.
  • Holder's name.
  • Validity period.
• If an automatic embosser is used, the data can be downloaded via a computer. For manual devices, the information is entered manually.

2.2. Loading the map​

• Place the plastic card into the embosser slot:
  • Make sure the card is aligned correctly.
  • Make sure the embossing side faces the stamps.

2.3. Device setup​

• Select the symbols you want (if this is a manual embosser):
  • Install stamps with letters, numbers or other symbols.
• Adjust the embossing depth:
  • Make sure the symbols are raised enough but not too high to damage the card.

2.4. Embossing process​

• Activate your device:
  • In automatic embossers, the process is started by pressing a button.
  • Manual embossers require force to create symbols.
• Pressure stamps create raised symbols on the map.

2.5. Quality control​

• After the process is complete, check the result:
  • Make sure the symbols are clear and positioned correctly.
  • Check the card for damage.

3. Types of embossers​

3.1. Hand embosser​

• Compact device for creating maps manually.
• Used in small organizations or for emergency situations.
• Advantages: ease of use, portability.
• Disadvantages: slow process, limited accuracy.

3.2. Automatic embosser​

• Professional computer controlled device.
• Capable of processing a large number of cards in a short time.
• Advantages: high speed, precision, possibility of mass production.
• Disadvantages: high cost, requires maintenance.

3.3. Combined devices​

• Combine embosser functions with other technologies:
  • Application of magnetic strip.
  • Printing chips.
  • Laser engraving.

4. Where is embossing used?​

4.1. Bank cards​

• Most classic bank cards have embossed symbols:
  • Card number.
  • Holder's name.
  • Validity period.

4.2. Loyalty cards​

• Loyalty programs often use embossing for personalization.

4.3. Identity cards​

• Some ID cards have embossed data for increased security.

4.4. Counterfeit cards​

• Important: Embossers are sometimes used for illegal purposes, such as creating clones of bank cards. This is illegal and punishable by criminal liability.

5. Embossing Tips​

• Use quality materials: Plastic cards should be strong enough to withstand pressure.
• Check your device settings: Incorrect settings may result in damage to the card or poor embossing.
• Add security features: After embossing, the card can be laminated for additional protection.
• Obey the Law: Using embossers to create counterfeit cards is strictly prohibited.

6. Contemporary relevance​

With the development of contactless 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 to issue classic bank cards and documents.

7. Conclusion​

Card embossing is a reliable way to personalize and protect data. Although its use is gradually declining due to the development of digital technologies, it remains an important tool for issuing classic cards.

Key takeaway: Embossing requires special equipment and skills, but allows you to create durable and secure cards. It is important to remember that using embossers for illegal purposes (such as creating counterfeit cards) is strictly prohibited and punishable by law.