IDP SMART 659385 KO Black & Overlay Ribbon (600 Prints)

IDP 659385 KO ribbon: choosing the right supply

The IDP 659385 KO ribbon pairs black printing with a clear overlay for compatible SMART-31 and SMART-51 card printers. It is a useful format when your design needs black personalisation rather than full-colour photographs. The manufacturer lists this reference at 600 prints with a cleaning roller.

Black details with a clear overlay

Use the black panel for the required monochrome content and the O panel for the clear print overlay. This can suit a preprinted membership or staff card where the background artwork is already present. Check contrast, layout and the print surface, particularly when adding information to existing card stock.

Check the part number and printer generation

The code 659385 identifies the KO supply offered here. IDP groups it with SMART-31 and SMART-51 consumables, rather than the SMART-21, SMART-70 or SMART-81 families. A black-and-overlay ribbon from another family is not an automatic replacement, even if the panel letters look similar.

Plan output and routine maintenance

The nominal roll rating is 600 prints; calculate the number of printed faces and allow for test cards. Use the correct driver selection for the installed supply. Fit the cleaning roller according to the printer instructions, and keep both the cards and ribbon clear of dust while changing consumables.

Related cards and ribbon choices

Start with blank white PVC cards for ordinary black-on-white badges, subject to your printer's card requirements. If the design calls for white details on a contrasting card, compare the 659370 white ribbon. For complete colour artwork, select the appropriate SMART-31/51 colour reference rather than this KO roll. contact ACB if you need help matching a ribbon to an existing card design.

Frequently asked questions

What does KO mean?

K is the black printing panel and O is the clear overlay panel. This is a two-panel printing sequence.

Is the overlay a separate lamination patch?

No. The ribbon's clear overlay is applied during printing. A separate laminator uses different supplies.

Does this ribbon encode access cards?

No. Printing and electronic encoding are separate functions. Encoding needs a compatible card, encoder and software.