What’s the Difference Between Entrust Sigma DS2 and Entrust Sigma DS3 Printer?

Card Printers -

What’s the Difference Between Entrust Sigma DS2 and Entrust Sigma DS3 Printer?

In today's fast-paced world, the demand for secure identification and access cards has surged across industries. From corporate offices to educational institutions, and government agencies to healthcare facilities, there's a growing necessity for efficient card printing solutions that can produce high-quality cards while maintaining security standards.

The Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 are direct-to-card printers designed for high-volume ID card creation. However, there are some key differences between the two printers and we will get into this in the blog. 

Addressing Diverse Card Printing Needs

DS Sigma Card Printer Range

While both printers offer remarkable solutions, there are distinct differences between them that cater to various requirements.

As industries across the spectrum experience a growing need for secure identification and access cards, efficient card printing solutions become essential. The Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers have been designed to effectively meet these demands.

These card printers cater for different industries. However, they both produce quality cards that will make you stand out. 

What is the difference between DS2 & DS3?

Difference between DS2 & DS3 card printer

The main difference between the printers is that the DS3 is faster, and able to print more cards over time. It is upgradable, i.e. you can add on modules - tactile impression or lamination modules if you want to upgrade the simplex DS3 to a duplex, you can. The DS3 is perfect for mining companies or corporations. 

The DS2 comes standard from the factory, and you cannot upgrade or add modules. Meaning if you wanted to have a magnetic stripe module, you would have to buy the DS2 with the mag stripe module, and you would be unable to add the module later. The DS2 is more cost-effective and is better equipped for schools and universities. 

Speed: DS3 Takes the Lead

Fast DS3 card printer

One of the most significant differences between the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers is their printing speed. The DS3 takes the lead in this aspect, boasting a faster card printing rate than the DS2.

DS2 printing speeds:

  • Monochrome Single-sided: 880/ hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 7040 Cards.
  • Colour Single-sided: 225/ hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 1800 Cards.
  • Colour Double-sided: 140/ hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 1120 Cards

DS3 printing speeds:

  • Monochrome Single-sided: 1100 / hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 8800 Cards.
  • Colour Single-sided: 250 / hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 2000 Cards.
  • Colour Double-sided: 180 / hour. 8 Hour Work Week = 1440 Cards.

The DS3's enhanced printing speed allows more cards to be printed over time and produces a larger volume of cards in a shorter period. This advantage is particularly valuable for businesses and institutions that require a quick turnaround for their card printing needs.

But industries that don’t need such a quick turnaround time and those that print throughout the year in smaller quantities may benefit more from the DS2 card printer. 

Read our blog on: Expert guide to choosing the right ID card printer. 

Upgradability: DS3's Versatility

Upgradable DS3 card printer

Another standout feature of the Entrust Sigma DS3 printer is its upgradability. The DS3 can be customised and expanded to suit evolving requirements. The modular design of the DS3 allows users to add modules to enhance the printer's capabilities. 

For instance, the tactile impression module can be added to create raised elements on the printed cards, adding an extra layer of security and sophistication. Even more impressively, the DS3 offers the option to upgrade from simplex to duplex printing. If you initially invest in a DS3 simplex printer, you can later upgrade it to a duplex printer, allowing for dual-sided card printing. 

This flexibility ensures that the DS3 can grow with your organisation's needs, making it a versatile and future-proof choice.

You may be wondering now, this obviously comes at a price. Please read our blog on why card printers are so expensive in South Africa for more information on this topic. 

In contrast, the Entrust Sigma DS2 printer comes standard from the factory without the option for modular upgrades or add-ons. While the DS2 is a reliable and capable printer, its lack of upgradability may limit its adaptability to changing requirements.

Although you may be unable to upgrade your DS2 at a later stage, this may be an advantage because your printer is solely focused on one operation for your business. For example, your DS2 card printer can be a standard design with a magnetic stripe encoder. This will ensure that the operations done on the card printer are only to print and encode the cards. The simpler, the better for your employees to operate and use. 

Please check out our table below on what modules can be added or upgraded on the DS3 and which modules can come standard with the DS2 card printer:

 

Sigma DS2 Card Printer

Sigma DS3 Card Printer

Magnetic stripe encoding

Optional 

Optional

Smart Card Encoding

Optional 

Optional 

In Line Tactile impression

Not Available 

Optional 

Lamination

Optional 

Optional 

Tactile Impression (Laminator)

Optional 

Optional 

Encryption

Yes

Yes

 

You can upgrade every feature of the above for the DS3 card printer. As for the DS2 card printer, you can get almost every feature as a factory setting. However, you cannot get the in-line tactical impression with it. 

The Entrust Sigma DS2: Affordable Reliability

Affordable DS2 card printer

The Entrust Sigma DS2 printer embodies reliability and affordability, making it an attractive option for organisations with budget-conscious considerations. 

This printer comes standard from the factory, eliminating the need for modular upgrades or add-ons. While it may lack the versatility of the DS3 in terms of enhancements, the DS2 remains a steadfast and dependable choice for those seeking a no-fuss, out-of-the-box solution.

The DS2's affordability doesn't equate to a compromise in quality. It emphasises the core features necessary for efficient card printing without unnecessary frills. Its reliability has been a defining factor for organisations prioritising a straightforward and dependable card production process.

What is a magnetic stripe encoding module?

Magnetic strip encoding module for card printers

A magnetic stripe encoding module in a card printer is an optional hardware component that allows the printer to encode data onto the magnetic stripe of plastic cards during the printing process. 

This module has a magnetic head that can write data onto the magnetic stripe in a specific pattern of positive and negative magnetic fields. The encoded data can include account numbers, cardholder names, and other relevant details.

What is a smart card encoding module?

Smart card encoding

A smart card encoding module is a hardware component found in card printers that enables the personalisation and encoding of data onto smart cards. Smart cards are advanced plastic cards that incorporate integrated circuits or microchips, allowing them to store and process data more securely and interactively than traditional magnetic stripe cards.

The smart card encoding module in a card printer facilitates the programming of information onto the microchip embedded within the smart card. This information can include personal identification details, access control credentials, and more. Smart card encoding modules are particularly useful for applications that require higher security levels, such as access control systems, identification badges, and healthcare cards.

What is a Lamination module? 

Lamination module encoding

A lamination module on a card printer is a specialised component that enhances the security, durability, and overall quality of printed plastic cards.

The module applies a clear protective layer, known as laminate, onto the surface of the printed card. The lamination process involves heat and pressure to bond the laminate to the card, creating a sealed layer on its surface and enhancing its resilience against wear, fading, and tampering. 

What is a Tactile Impression (Laminator) module?

Tactile impression module for card printers

A Tactile Impression Laminator module is a component found in card printers that adds an extra layer of security and durability to printed cards. 

It allows you to place an impression on the front or back of the card. The impresser uses an installed die to stamp an impression on the card and can use an installed foil fused into the impression. This creates a raised pattern on the card that can be felt when touched, enhancing its security profile and making it easier to differentiate from other cards.

The module then applies a clear protective layer, known as a laminate, over the printed card's surface. The laminate can have various features, including holographic elements or custom patterns, to enhance security and prevent tampering.

What is an encryption module?

Encryption module for plastic cards

An encryption module in a card printing machine is a specialised component that provides an added layer of security by encrypting sensitive data used in the card printing process. 

This module is responsible for securing data such as encoding keys, cardholder information, access control credentials, and other confidential details that are utilised during card personalisation and printing.

Essentially it is another layer of security for your card printer. It ensures that sensitive data is kept confidential, prevents unauthorised access to encrypted information, and contributes to the overall security and integrity of the cards being produced.

Card Monster: Affordable Excellence

When it comes to sourcing reliable card printers like the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3, Card Monster stands as a trusted name in the industry. Recognising the diverse needs of organisations across various sectors, Card Monster offers these printers at an affordable price point without compromising on quality.

Card Monster's commitment to excellence is reflected in its range of card printers, all of which are designed to be fast, secure, and reliable. We understand that organisations require efficient printing solutions and assurance that their card production process remains secure and uninterrupted.

Striking a balance: DS2 vs DS3

DS2 VS DS3 card printers

The choice between the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers ultimately comes down to the specific priorities of your business. 

The DS3 offers unmatched speed, upgradability, and versatility, making it an excellent investment for businesses with evolving needs and a focus on security enhancements such as mines and corporates. 

On the other hand, the DS2's affordability and reliability make it an attractive choice for those who value simplicity and consistent performance such as schools, medium sized businesses and universities. 

Embracing the Future with Confidence

In the realm of card printing technology, the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers have solidified their positions as reliable solutions for businesses of various sizes and sectors. 

Card Monster's commitment to delivering affordable excellence ensures that these printers are accessible to a wider audience, enabling businesses to embrace cutting-edge technology without compromising on quality or budget.

Conclusion

Printed plastic card

In the dynamic landscape of card printing technology, the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers shine as powerful contenders. The DS3's superior printing speed and upgradability set it apart as a versatile solution that can evolve with the changing needs of businesses. On the other hand, the DS2 offers reliability out of the box without the option for modular enhancements.

When looking for top-notch card printers that offer the perfect balance of quality and affordability, Card Monster emerges as a reliable partner. With a commitment to providing fast, secure, and reliable printing solutions, Card Monster ensures that businesses can meet their card production needs efficiently while maintaining the highest standards of security.

In conclusion, the Entrust Sigma DS2 and DS3 printers represent the apex of card printing technology, each catering to specific demands. Whether you prioritise speed, upgradability, or a combination of both, these printers are designed to elevate your card printing process and contribute to the overall security and efficiency of your business. And with Card Monster as your trusted provider, you can embark on this journey of innovation and excellence with confidence.

Please feel free to reach out to our staff members on which card printer best suits your business's needs. 


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