IDP Smart 51 Plastic Card Printer (Dual-Sided)

IDP Smart 51 dual-sided ID card printer

The IDP Smart 51 dual-sided ID card printer (SMART-51D) provides automatic printing on both faces of staff, student, visitor and membership cards. Use the front for a photo and identification, and the reverse for supporting information, barcodes or terms. The SMART-51 platform uses a metal frame and an input hopper rated for 100 standard cards with the cover closed, or up to 200 with it open.

Compare the correct printing modes

IDP distinguishes 212 cards per hour in YMCKO mode from 164 cards per hour in YMCKOK duplex mode (22 seconds per card). Monochrome is rated at 720 cards per hour. Actual job speed depends on the ribbon, print mode, encoding, design and card handling. Colour resolution is 300 dpi; 600 and 1200 dpi settings are monochrome-only modes.

IDP Smart 51 dual-sided hardware options

Use the Printer Options selector for the base model, Ethernet connectivity, magnetic encoder or contactless/MIFARE encoder configuration. These selections do not imply that every option is fitted together. Ask ACB if you need a combined network-and-encoder specification, and check that the encoder and software support your exact card technology.

The standard format is CR80, with 0.38–1.0 mm supported in the manufacturer's model specifications. Use suitable printable stock and check current drivers, software compatibility and the applicable UK warranty. Compare the matching single-sided SMART-51 listing, or read IDP's SMART-51D specifications.

IDP Smart 51 dual-sided supplies and setup

The IDP 659376 YMCKOK colour ribbon supports a colour front and black reverse, with a nominal capacity of 200 prints in the intended mode. For colour on both faces, confirm the supported ribbon and driver settings. A one-face ribbon image count should not be assumed to equal the number of finished two-sided cards.

Choose printable blank white PVC cards within the approved size and thickness range. Add the IDP 659909 long cleaning-card kit and follow the maintenance routine. Use the compatible black ribbon where a monochrome layout meets your needs.

SMART-51D buying questions

Which speed applies to a colour-front, black-reverse card?

The manufacturer specifies 164 cards per hour in YMCKOK duplex mode. The 212-card YMCKO figure describes a different print mode. Your finished-job time also includes preparing data, sending artwork, any encoding and handling the cards.

Does automatic duplex printing include lamination?

This listing provides automatic front-and-reverse printing. A ribbon overlay and a separate laminate are different processes. If you need a laminated credential, compare the Smart 51L lamination model and confirm the required consumables and hardware.

Can I choose Ethernet and a MIFARE encoder together?

The options on this page represent separate configurations. Ask ACB to check a combined specification if you need networking and encoding in one machine. Match the encoder, software and precise card technology to your existing reader system.

Is the higher resolution available in full colour?

Colour printing is 300 dpi. The 600 and 1200 dpi settings apply to monochrome. Approve a sample of both faces to check portraits, fine text and any machine-readable code before releasing a large print run.

Would a smaller printer suit my workload?

Compare the Smart 31 dual-sided printer if its feeder capacity and lower published duplex rate suit your issuing volume. For a front-only layout, see the single-sided Smart 51. ACB also offers a photo ID card printing service for organisations ordering finished cards.