HID Fargo DTC5500LMX User manual

hidglobal.com
FARGO®
DTC5500LMX CARD PRINTER
USER GUIDE
PLT-02496
Version: 1.0
November 2015
Model X002100

Page ii
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
Copyright
© 2015 HID Global Corporation/ASSA ABLOY AB. All rights reserved.
This document may not be reproduced, disseminated or republished in any form without the prior
written permission of HID Global Corporation.
Trademarks
HID GLOBAL, HID, the HID logo, FARGO, iCLASS, iCLASS SE, OMNIKEY, and Seos are trademarks or
registered trademarks of HID Global Corporation, or its licensors, in the U.S. and other countries.
Contacts
For additional offices around the world, see www.hidglobal.com corporate offices.
Americas and Corporate Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA)
611 Center Ridge Drive
Austin, TX 78753
USA
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Haverhill Business Park Phoenix Road
Haverhill, Suffolk CB9 7AE
England
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Asia Pacific Brazil
19/F 625 King’s Road
North Point, Island East
Hong Kong
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Condomínio Business Center
Av. Ermano Marchetti, 1435
Galpão A2 - CEP 05038-001
Lapa - São Paulo / SP
Brazil
Phone: [phone]
HID Global Customer Support: support.hidglobal.com

Contents
November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Chapter 1: Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1 Regulatory Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1.1 Agency Listings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-1
1.1.2 United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.1.3 Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.1.4 Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.1.5 Japan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.1.6 Korea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-2
1.2 Safety Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-3
1.2.1 Safety Messages - United States . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-3
1.2.2 Safety Messages - French Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-4
1.2.3 Safety Messages - Taiwan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-5
1.2.4 Safety Messages - China . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-6
1.3 Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-6
1.4 Functional Specifications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.5 Printer Components: Print Ribbons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-9
1.5.1 Ribbon Types and Print Counts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
1.6 Printer Components: Blank Cards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-10
Chapter 2: Setup and Installation Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1 Selecting a Good Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-1
2.1.1 About Moisture Condensation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2-1
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.3 Print Driver Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-2
2.3.1 Driver Installation Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-3
2.4 Installing the Print Ribbon Cartridge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4
2.5 Installing Blank Cards into the Input Card Hopper. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-5
2.6 Card Size Selection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-6
2.7 Printer Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-8
Chapter 3: Printing Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.1 Card Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-1
3.2 Device Options Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-3
3.3 Image Color Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-5
3.3.1 Advanced Image Color Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-7
3.4 Image Calibrate Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-8
3.5 Magnetic Encoding Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-9

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3.5.1 ISO Encoding Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.5.2 Custom Encoding Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-11
3.5.3 Raw Binary Encoding Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12
3.5.4 JIS II Encoding Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3-12
3.5.5 ISO Track Locations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3.5.5.1 Sending the Track Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-13
3.6 Lamination Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-15
3.7 Overlay/Print Area Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-17
3.7.1 Define a Print Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-18
3.8 K-Panel Resin Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-19
3.9 Printer Info Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3-20
Chapter 4: ToolBox . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-1
4.1 Configuration Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-2
4.2 Calibrate Laminator Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-3
4.3 Calibrate Ribbon Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-4
4.4 Clean Printer Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5
4.5 Advanced Settings Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-6
4.5.1 Settings Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-7
Chapter 5: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1
5.1 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-1
5.1.1 Sequence of Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-1
5.2 Printer Error Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.2.1 Printer Error Button and On-screen Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.2.2 Error Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-2
5.2.3 Troubleshooting with the Error Message Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-4
5.2.4 Printer-Specific Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-11
5.2.4.1 Additional Printer Specific Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-12
Chapter 6: Firmware Upgrades . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
6.1 Upgrade Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-1
Chapter 7: Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7.1 Technical Support . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7-1
7.1.1 Reading the Serial Numbers on a FARGO Printer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7-1

Chapter 1
November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Specifications
The purpose of this section is to provide specific information on the Regulatory Compliances, Agency
Listings, Technical Specifications and Functional Specifications for the HDP8500 Card
Printer/Encoder.
1.1 Regulatory Compliance
1.1.1 Agency Listings
Agency Regulatory Compliance
UL The Card Printer is listed under UL 60950-1 (2nd edition) Information Technology Equipment.
File Number: E145118
CSA
The printer manufacturer has been authorized by UL to represent the Card Printer as CSA
Certified under CSA Standard C22.2 No. 60950-1-07 2nd edition
File Number: E145118
FCC The Card Printer complies with the requirements in Part 15 of the FCC rules for a Class A digital
device.
CE
The Card Printer has been tested and complies with EN300-330-1, EN300-330-2, EN301-489-
1, EN60950-1:2006 + A11:2009
Note: Based on the above testing, the printer manufacturer certifies that the card printer
complies with the following of the European Community and has placed the CE mark on the
Card Printer.
LVD 2006/95/EC, EMC 2004/108/EC, R&TTE 1999/5/EC, ROHS 2011/65/EU
Agency Listing
Emissions and
Immunity Standards
FCC Part 15 Class A, RSS-GEN, RSS 210, CNS 13438, EN55022 Class A, EN55024,
EN6100-3-2, EN6100-3-3, EN300-330-1, EN300-330-2, EN301-489-1, EN301-489-3,
GB9254, GB17625
Safety Standards UL IEC 60950-1 (2nd edition), CSA C22.2 No. 60950-1-07( 2nd edition), EN60950-1,
GB4943, CNS14336
Additional Agency
Listings
CCC, BSMI, KC

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PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
1.1.2 United States
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions:
1. This device may not cause harmful interference.
2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital
device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable
protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial
environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to
radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful
interference; in which case, correction of the interference is at the users expense.
IMPORTANT: Changes or modifications to an intentional or unintentional radiator not expressly
approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the
equipment.
1.1.3 Canada
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to
the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must
accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio
exempts de licence. L'exploitation est autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes : (1) l'appareil ne doit
pas produire de brouillage, et (2) l'utilisateur de l'appareil doit accepter tout brouillage
radioélectrique subi, même si le brouillage est susceptible d'en compromettre le fonctionnement.
1.1.4 Taiwan
經型式認證合格之低功率射頻電機，非經許可，公司、商號或使用者均不得擅自變
更頻率、加大功率或變更原設計之特性及功能。低功率射頻電機之使用不得影響飛
航安全及干擾合法通信；經發現有干擾現象時，應立即停用，並改善至無干擾時方
得繼續使用。前項合法通信，指依電信法規定作業之無線電通信。低功率射頻電機
須忍受合法通信或工業、科學及醫療用電波輻射性電機設備之干擾。
1.1.5 Japan
この装置は総務省の型式指定を受けています。"
( 総務省指定番号は第 AC-12056 号です )
本製品は電波を使用した RFID 機器の読み取り?書き込み装置です。
そのため使用する用途?場所によっては、医療機器に影響を与える恐れがあります
1.1.6 Korea
이 기기는 업무용 (A 급 ) 전자파 적합기기로서 판매자 또는 사용자는 이 점을 주의하시길 바라며 , 가정 외의 지
역에서 사용하는 것을 목적으로 .

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Specifications Page 1-3
1.2 Safety Messages
1.2.1 Safety Messages - United States
Symbol Critical Instructions for Safety Purposes
Danger: Failure to follow these guidelines results in personal injury or death.
To prevent personal injury or death:
Reference the following safety messages before performing an operation.
Always remove the power cord prior to performing repair procedures, unless otherwise
specified.
Ensure only qualified personnel perform these procedures.
ESD:
This device is electro statically sensitive. Damage to the device may occur if exposing it to
static electricity discharges.
To prevent damage:
Reference the following safety messages before performing an operation.
Observe all established Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) procedures while handling cables in or
near the circuit board and printhead assemblies.
Always wear an appropriate personal grounding device.
Always remove the ribbon and cards from the printer before making any repairs, unless
otherwise specified.
Remove jewelry and thoroughly clean hands before working on the printer.
Caution:
This symbol warns of an electrical hazard that could result in personal injury or death.
Caution:
For safety purposes, do not use Ethernet for a direct connection outside of the building.

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PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
1.2.2 Safety Messages - French Canada
Symbole Instructions critiques visant la Sécurité
Danger:
Si ces directives ne sont pas suivies les résultats peuvent être des lésions corporelles ou la
mort.
Pour éviter des lésions corporelles ou la mort:
Rapportez-vous aux avis suivants de sécurité avant de procéder à une opération.
Retirez toujours le câble d’alimentation avant d’effectuer des procédures de réparation, sauf
spécification contraire.
Assurez-vous qu’uniquement des personnes qualifiées réalisent des procédures.
ESD:
Ce dispositif est sensible à l’électricité statique. Il peut souffrir des dommages s’il est exposé à
des décharges électrostatiques.
Pour éviter des dommages:
Rapportez-vous aux messages suivants avant de procéder à une opération.
Suivez toutes les procédures de Décharges Electrostatiques (ESD) en vigueur durant le
maniement des câbles dans ou à proximité des Ensembles de Cartes de Circuit Imprimé et
Tête d’Impression.
Portez toujours un dispositif de mise à la terre personnelle appropriée.
Retirez toujours le ruban et les Cartes de l’Imprimante avant d’effectuer toute réparation, sauf
spécification contraire.
Retirez tous bijoux et lavez soigneusement vos mains avant de travailler à l’Imprimante.
Attention:
Ce symbole est un avis de péril électrique passible de résulter en lésion corporelle ou mort.
Attention:
Pour des motifs de sécurité, n’utilisez pas Ethernet pour une connexion directe hors du
bâtiment.

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Specifications Page 1-5
1.2.3 Safety Messages - Taiwan
繁體中文 射頻發射及安全指令 安全訊息 （小心檢查）
標記 重要的安全事項說明
危險 :未按照說明安裝可能造成人員傷亡。
在可能產生潛在安全問題的地方有警示標記。
（如左圖所示）。
為了避免人員傷害，在進行有此警示標記的操作前，請先參考安全資訊提示。
為了避免人員傷害，在沒有特別說明的情況下，修理前請關掉電源開關。
小心 :
此設備對靜電很敏感。如果受到靜電放電，設備會損壞。
在可能產生潛在靜電安全問題的地方有警示標記。
（如左圖所示）。
為了避免損壞設備，在進行有此警示標記的操作前，請先參考安全資訊提示。
為了避免損壞設備，在排放電路板和印刷頭聯合裝置裡面或附近的電線時，請注意觀察所有的靜
電放電設備。
為了避免損壞設備，請隨時佩戴合適的接地裝置 （比如：手腕上戴一個高品質的接地手腕帶以
免受到可能的傷害）。
為了避免損壞設備，如果沒有特殊說明，在做任何修理前，請取下印表機上的色帶和卡。
為了避免損壞設備，在使用印表機之前，請摘下戒指和手上飾品，並仔細清洗手上的油脂。

Page 1-6 Specifications
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
1.2.4 Safety Messages - China
安全消息 （请仔细阅读）
1.3 Technical Specifications
符号 涉及安全的重要过程
危险 : 如果不遵循这些安装指南进行操作，可能会导致重伤，甚至死亡。
可能引发安全问题的信息由警告符号 （如左图所示）来表示。
为了确保人身安全，在执行前面带有此符号的操作之前，请先阅读下面的安全消息。
为了确保人身安全，除非另有规定，否则在执行维修过程前，始终应断开电源。
小心 :
此设备为静电敏感设备。如果暴露在静电电流下，可能会损坏设备。
可能引发静电安全问题的信息由警告符号 （如左图所示）来表示。
为了防止设备或介质受损，在执行前面带有此符号的操作之前，请先阅读下面的安全消息。
为了防止设备或介质受损，请在处理电路板和打印头部件中或附近的电缆时，遵守所有规定的静
电放电 (ESD) 过程。
为了防止设备或介质受损，请始终佩带适当的个人接地设备 （例如，已接地避免出现潜在损坏
的高质量腕带）。
为了防止设备或介质受损，除非另有规定，否则在执行任何维修过程前，始终应将色带和证卡与
打印机分离。
为了防止设备或介质受损，在操作打印机前，请取下手指和手上的珠宝饰物，并将手上的油渍和
污渍彻底清洗干净。
仅适用于海拔 2000m 以下地区安全使用
仅适用于非热带气候条件下安全使用
环境保护 ( 中国 -RoHS)
环保使用期是基于本产品用于办公环境。
Component Description
Card Cleaning Card cleaning roller integrated into the ribbon cartridge.
A new cleaning roller is included with each ribbon cartridge.
Card Size and Type
Supported
CR-80 (3.375"L x 2.125"W / 85.6mmL x 54mmW)
CR-79 (3.313”L x 2.063”W / 84.1mmL x 52.4mmW
Card (Standard) Sizes CR-80 edge-to-edge (3.36"L x 2.11"W / 85.3mmL x 53.7mmW)
CR-79 (3.3”L x 2.04”W / 83.8mmL x 51.8mmW)
Card Thickness .009” - .040” / 9 mil – 40 mil / .229mm – 1.016mm
Display Graphical Display

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Specifications Page 1-7
Encoding Options
Supported
• 125kHz (HID Prox) reader
• 13.56 MHz (iCLASS, MIFARE, ISO 14443 A/B, ISO 15693) read/write
encoder
• Contact Smart Card Encoder reads from and writes to all ISO7816 1/2/3/4
memory and microprocessor smart cards (T=0, T=1) as well as
synchronous cards.
• ISO Magnetic Stripe Encoding, dual high- and low-coercivity, Tracks 1,2
and 3
Hopper (input) Card
Capacity
Single hopper: 100 cards (.030” / .762.mm)
Dual hopper: 200 cards (.030” / .762 mm)
Hopper (output) Card
Capacity
100 cards (.030” / .762.mm)
Hopper (Reject) Card
Capacity
100 cards (.030” / .762.mm)
Interface USB 2.0 and Ethernet with internal print server
Operating Conditions Operating Temperature: 65° to 80° F (18° to 27° C)
Humidity: 20 - 80% non-condensing
Operating Systems Windows® XP / Vista™ (32 bit & 64 bit) / Server 2003 & 2008 / Windows® 7 (32
& 64 bit) / Windows® 8 (32 & 64 bit) / Linux®
Options
• Single Wire Ethernet and USB 2.0 Interface for inline printing and
encoding
• Single wire Ethernet encoding is only available for iCLASS and Contact
Smart Card encoding)
• Dual-Sided Printing Module – Upgradable
• Dual Input Card Hopper
• Same-Side Input / Output Card Hopper – Upgradable
• Smart Card Encoding (contact / contactless) – Upgradable
• Magnetic Stripe Encoding – Upgradable
• Printer Cleaning Kit
Print Colors Up to 16.7 million colors / 256 shades per pixel
Print Method Dye-Sublimation/ Resin Thermal Transfer
Print Resolution 300 DPI (11.8 dots per mm); continuous tone
Component Description

Page 1-8 Specifications
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
Print Ribbon Options
• Full-color with resin black and overlay panel, YMCKO* (500 prints)
• Full-color half-panel with resin black and overlay panel, YMCKO*
(850 prints)
• Full-color with two resin black panels and overlay panel, YMCKOK* (500
prints)
• Full-color with fluorescing, two resin black panels and overlay panel,
YMCFKO* (500 prints)
• Full-color with fluorescing, two resin black panels and overlay panel,
YMCFKOK* (400 prints)
• Resin black and overlay panel, KO* (1250 prints)
• Dye-sublimation black and overlay print, BO* (1250 prints)
• Resin black (standard and premium) (3000 prints)
• Resin green, blue, red, white (1000 prints)
• Resin silver (2000 prints)
• Resin gold (1000 prints)
• Rewrite technology – No ribbon is required
* Indicates the ribbon type and the number of ribbon panels printed where
Y=Yellow, M=Magenta, C=Cyan, K=Resin Black, O=Overlay
F=Fluorescing Resin
Print Speed
• 6 seconds per card (K*)
• 8 seconds per card (KO*)
• 16 seconds per card (YMCKO*)
• 24 seconds per card (YMCKOK*)
• Print speed indicates an approximate batch print speed and is measured
from the time a card feeds into the printer to the time it ejects from the
printer.
• Print speeds do not include encoding time or the time needed for the PC
to process the image.
• Process time is dependent on the size of the file, the CPU, amount of RAM
and the amount of available resources at the time of the print.
* Indicates the ribbon type and the number of ribbon panels printed where
Y=Yellow, M=Magenta, C=Cyan, K=Resin Black, O=Overlay, F=Fluorescing Resin
Printer Memory 128 MB RAM
Power Source Voltage,
Amp & Frequency
Supply Voltage/Amp: 100-240 VAC, 1.6A Max
Supply Frequency: 50 Hz and 60 Hz
Ship Weight Single-Sided: 8 lbs. / 3.63 Kg; Dual-Sided: 10 lbs. / 4.54 Kg
Software FARGO Workbench Diagnosis Utility
Warranty • Printer- 2 years
• Printhead: 2 years unlimited pass with UltraCard™
Component Description

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Specifications Page 1-9
1.4 Functional Specifications
This card printer utilizes two different, yet closely related printing technologies to achieve its
remarkable direct-to-card print quality for dye-sublimation and resin thermal transfer.
1.5 Printer Components: Print Ribbons
The card printer utilizes both dye-sublimation and/or resin thermal transfer methods to print images
directly onto blank cards. Because the dye-sublimation and the resin thermal transfer print methods
each provide their own unique benefits, Print Ribbons are available in resin-only, dye-sublimation-only
and combination dye-sublimation/resin versions.
To make it easier to remember which print ribbons are which, a letter code has been developed to
indicate the type of ribbon panels found on each ribbon. This letter code is as follows:
= Dye-Sublimation Yellow Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Magenta Panel
= Dye-Sublimation Cyan Panel
= Resin Black Panel (Premium unless otherwise stated)
= Clear Protective Overlay Panel
= Fluorescing Panel

Page 1-10 Specifications
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
1.5.1 Ribbon Types and Print Counts
The following table lists print capability of each ribbon type.
1.6 Printer Components: Blank Cards
Ribbon Count
YMCKO – Full Color/Resin Black / Overlay 500
YMCKO Half Panel – Full Color (1/2)/Resin Black/Overlay 850
YMCFKO - Full Color/UV Fluorescing/Resin Black/Overlay 500
YMCKK - Full Color/2 Resin Black 500
YMCKOK - Full Color/2 Resin Black/Overlay 500
YMCFKOK - Full Color/UV Fluorescing/2 Resin Black/Overlay 400
K – Standard Resin 3000
K – Premium Resin 3000
Colored Resin 2000
KO - Premium Black Resin/Overlay 1250
BO - Dye-Sub Black/Overlay 1250
None – Rewritable Supported
Type Description
Card Size The Card Printer accepts standard CR-79 and CR-80 sized cards.
Card Surface
Suitable cards must have a polished PVC surface free of fingerprints, dust or any
other types of embedded contaminants. In addition, cards must have a
completely smooth, level surface in order for the printer to achieve consistent
color coverage.
Certain types of proximity cards have an uneven surface that inhibits consistent
color transfer.
Certain types of smart card chips are raised slightly above the card’s surface,
which also results in poor color transfer.
UltraCard Brand Cards
The UltraCard™ product line, available exclusively as part of HID Global FARGO
brand secure card issuance solutions, has a long standing reputation among
dealers and end-Users for consistent quality in construction.
• In addition to blank stock, the UltraCard line is available in a variety of
configurations for magnetic stripe, custom holograms and other additional
anti-counterfeiting feature.
• UltraCard Premium is the preferred card for Direct-to-Card (DTC®)
applications that require a higher quality card. The UltraCard Premium’s
composite material construction provides for maximum durability, flexibility
and card life, with optimal resolution print quality for lamination and
fluorescent panel Ribbon printing applications.
UltraCard PVC cards are medium-durability cards for a glossy, photo quality
finish. These cards are manufactured to ensure clean, scratch-free cards for high-
quality prints and extended printhead life.

Chapter 2
November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Setup and Installation Procedures
This section describes the setup and installation for the DTC5500LMX Card Printer.
2.1 Selecting a Good Location
The following guidelines help to ensure optimal printing performance:
Place the unit in a location with adequate air circulation to prevent internal heat buildup.
Use the printer's dimensions as a guideline for the minimum clearances to the unit.
Note: Allow for adequate clearance in front of the unit to accommodate the unit with its covers
open.
Do not install unit near heat sources such as radiators or air ducts or in a place subject to direct
sunlight, excessive dust, mechanical vibration or shock.
2.1.1 About Moisture Condensation
If the unit is brought directly from a cold to a warm location or is placed in a very damp room,
moisture may condense inside the unit. Should this occur, print quality may not be optimal.
Leave the unit unplugged in a warm, dry room for several hours before using to evaporate any
moisture.
Caution: For safety purposes, Ethernet is not intended for a direct connection outside of
the building.
Attention: Pour des raisons de sécurité, Ethernet n'est pas conçu pour une connexion
directe à l'extérieur du bâtiment.

Setup and Installation Procedures Page 2-2
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
2.2 Unpacking and Inspection
While unpacking the printer, inspect the carton to ensure that no damage has occurred during
shipping.
Make sure that all supplied accessories are included with the unit:
Software Installation CD (includes Printer Driver, Online User Guide and Printer Diagnostic Tool)
US/EU Power Cable
USB Cable (2.0)
Warranty Statement
2.3 Print Driver Installation
This section describes the printer driver installation requirements and standard procedures.
Requirements are listed below. The DTC5500LMX Print Driver supports the following:
Windows Vista 32 bit with SP2
Windows Vista 64 bit with SP2
Windows XP 32 bit with SP3
Windows Server 2003 (R1) 32 bit
Windows Server 2008 (R1) 32 bit with SP2
Windows Server 2008 (R1) 64 bit with SP2
Windows Server 2008 R2
Windows 7 32 bit and 64 bit
Windows 8 32 bit and 64 bit
For more information on supported Operating Systems, please visit the HID Global support page.

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Page 2-3 Setup and Installation Procedures
2.3.1 Driver Installation Instructions
Start the installation process by inserting the Driver CD into the computer; then, follow the
Installation Wizard screen prompts.
1. Select Install the Printer Driver to go through the driver installation wizard.
2. Select the Install the FARGO Workbench to install the Diagnostic program.
3. All versions of Windows require Administrator rights.
4. Go to Start > Devices & Printers, right-click the DTC5500LMX printer icon and select Printing
preferences to setup the printer driver after it has been installed.

Setup and Installation Procedures Page 2-4
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
2.4 Installing the Print Ribbon Cartridge
FARGO Direct-to-Card Printers require highly specialized supplies to function properly.
The FARGO DTC5500LMX Card Printer uses a one piece, disposable ribbon cartridge system.
To maximize printer durability, reliability and printed card quality, you must use only FARGO-certified
supplies.
Your FARGO warranty is void, where not prohibited by law, if you use supplies other than FARGO-
certified supplies.
Printer cleaning is recommended with each ribbon change to ensure quality printed cards.
Resin-only print ribbons consist of a continuous roll of a single resin color. No protective overlay panel
(O) is provided because resin images do not require the protection of an overlay.
To Install the Print Ribbon Cartridge:
1. Pull open the front assembly.
2. Insert the print ribbon cartridge into the printer.
3. Close the front cover.

November 2015 PLT-02496, Version: 1.0
Page 2-5 Setup and Installation Procedures
2.5 Installing Blank Cards into the Input Card Hopper
The FARGO DTC5500LMX Card Printer is capable of printing single feed cards and multiple feed
cards (batch mode). To print a single feed card, remove all cards from the input card hopper, leave its
door closed and place a card in the single feed card slot (which can be used repeatedly).
1. Load the cards with the print side down and (if applicable) the magnetic strip up and towards
the front of the printer.
Information: Do not run the cards with a contaminated, dull or uneven surface through the
Printer.
Printing onto such cards may lead to poor print quality and can greatly reduce the life of
the printhead.
Card types include PVC or PVC finish.
Cards eject into the output hopper or reject hopper.
Each input hopper holds 100 cards.
Certain types of smart card chips are raised slightly above the cards surface, which may
result in poor color transfer. Design the card with white space surrounding the chip.
To print using single feed, remove all cards from the input card hopper, leave its door
closed. Place a card in the single feed card slot (which can be used repeatedly).
2. Open the input card hopper door.
3. Press the card hopper load lever down until the card tray locks into place.
4. Load up to 100 cards into the hopper with the print side down.
Note: If using cards with a magnetic stripe, the magnetic stripe should be loaded with the
stripe up and to the front of the Printer.
5. Close the input card hopper door to release the lever to the printing position.

Setup and Installation Procedures Page 2-6
PLT-02496, Version: 1.0 November 2015
2.6 Card Size Selection
The Card Size (standard CR-70 and CR-80) must be set in the printer and in the Printer Driver
Preferences.
1. Slide out the front assembly, which exposes the card switch.
2. The card switch is clearly marked with the 2 card options. Slide the switch to the card size
needed.
LEFT for the CR-79 card.
RIGHT for the CR-80 card.