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How to Protect Magnetic Stripe ID Cards from Damage

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daniel mann

Magnetic stripe encoding on ID cards is a popular method of storing additional data on the plastic cards other than those that are visible. This helps to expand the usability and functionality of the ID cards in an organization. Magnetic stripe cards can be used for a variety of purposes, such as for keyless entry, quick payments, transit monitoring, attendance tracking, access control, and more.

The magnetic stripe on the card stores the data by altering the small iron-based particles on the magnetic material band on the card. The card reader then decodes the data in the magnetic stripe by physical contact to grant access or perform the necessary function. So if the magnetic stripes on the ID cards are damaged, then it will not work as expected. This applies to choosing the wrong type of magnetic stripe cards as well. That is why it is very important to properly select as well as protect your magnetic stripe ID cards to make the most of it.

How to Protect Magnetic Stripe ID Cards from Damage

Magnetic stripe cards can be damaged due to abrasion and scratches caused by other materials that rub against it. Over time, the wear and tear can render the data on the magnetic stripe unreadable. Therefore, the simplest way to protect a magnetic stripe ID card will be to keep it in a separate pocket that will avoid prolonged or constant contact of the ID card with other materials. You can also use a protective cardholder or a dedicated wallet compartment to keep it safe.

It is also important to keep your magnetic stripe ID card away from magnets. As the data on the card is arranged on it using tiny magnetic particles, extended exposure to an external magnet, no matter how small it is, can disturb the way the particles are aligned on the magnetic stripe. This means that the card reader will not be able to decode the information on the ID card.

If you are in the manufacturing industry and have to deal with magnets, then it will be wiser to choose HiCo magnetic stripes. They will offer better protection to the data on the ID cards when compared to LoCo magnetic stripes. HiCo or high-coercivity refers to the standard of card durability and the magnetic stripe’s resistance to being demagnetized due to close contact with magnets. HiCo magnetic stripe cards are magnetically harder and last for a much longer time than LoCo or low-coercivity cards. Yet LoCo cards will be more suitable if you need to change the data on the card routinely.

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