HID 55310 DTC4500e Card Printer-Encoder
Overview
The HID 55310 is a professional-grade card printer-encoder designed for high-volume credential production in access control, identity management, and secure badging environments. This dual-side printing system delivers synchronized front-and-back card encoding in a single pass, eliminating the need for manual card flipping and reducing production time. The model 55310 combines printing capability with integrated magnetic stripe encoding, making it ideal for organizations requiring multi-technology credential issuance on a single card stock.
Key Features
- Dual-Side Printing: Simultaneous front and back card printing in one pass, reducing throughput time and operator handling
- Single-Side Hopper Configuration: Single input hopper design simplifies card loading and reduces jams typical of multi-hopper systems
- ISO Magnetic Stripe Encoding: Built-in magnetic stripe encoder compliant with ISO/IEC 7811 standards for Track 1, Track 2, and Track 3 encoding
- USB and Ethernet Connectivity: Dual communication interfaces allow direct connection to workstations (USB) or enterprise network integration (Ethernet) for scalable credential management workflows
- No Locking Hoppers: Standard hopper design without locking mechanisms, suitable for controlled-access environments where manual security oversight is maintained
- Color Printing Capability: Support for full-color card production enabling photographic IDs, color logos, and multi-color security features
- Professional Credential Format: Supports CR80 standard card dimensions for compatibility with standard card readers and access control systems
Integration and Compatibility
The HID 55310 integrates with enterprise badge management software and access control platforms that support USB or Ethernet printer protocols. The model 55310 supports both magnetic stripe and printing workflows, allowing security integrators to consolidate credential issuance on a single device. Network-based deployment via Ethernet enables shared access across departments or remote printing operations, while USB mode provides direct integration with standalone issuance stations. ISO magnetic stripe compliance ensures encoded cards remain readable by legacy readers, barcode scanners, and modern contactless access control systems.
Package Contents
The HID 55310 includes the printer-encoder unit, single-side input hopper, power supply, USB cable, and basic installation documentation. Consumables such as ribbon cartridges, cleaning rollers, and card stock are sold separately to support ongoing production requirements.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The HID 55310 is a pragmatic choice for mid-to-large organizations consolidating card issuance workflows. During deployment planning, the dual-side architecture significantly reduces production bottlenecks compared to sequential single-side systems. The model 55310's integration of magnetic stripe encoding eliminates external encoding steps, streamlining credential supply chains and reducing operational complexity.
Technical Highlights:
- Dual-Pass Encoding: Simultaneous front-back printing with integrated magnetic stripe encoding in a single card cycle reduces labor and error rates
- Network Flexibility: Ethernet connectivity enables enterprise badge management platforms to route credential jobs to the 55310 across department boundaries without USB tethering
- Hopper Simplicity: Single-side hopper design with no locking mechanisms reduces maintenance overhead and allows straightforward card insertion for high-throughput environments
Deployment Considerations:
- Validate your badge management software supports Ethernet or USB printer protocols; most modern platforms do, but legacy systems may require driver verification before purchase
- Plan for consumables: ribbon cartridges and cleaning rollers are replacement items; budget for periodic maintenance to sustain print quality
- Place the device in controlled-access areas where operator supervision prevents unauthorized card encoding and protects magnetic stripe data integrity
The 55310 delivers solid throughput and reliability for organizations moving beyond single-function badge systems. Its magnetic stripe integration makes it especially valuable in hybrid access environments still leveraging legacy card readers alongside newer RFID or contactless systems.
