Home » questions » using a PC, scanner and ink jet printer, can I produce holographic lettering. If not what do i need

using a PC, scanner and ink jet printer, can I produce holographic lettering. If not what do i need

5
2006-08-10 14:48:07, Category: Programming & Design
I am developing an I.D./ swipe card and as a security measure I plan to incorporate holographic lettering in either royal blue or gold - to conform with my company colours- and to minimize initial outlay I need to produce samples myself. I am actualy hoping for negative answers, because if there is a way to do what I have asked then I will need to re-think this particular aspect.

Answers

  1. hallawthere

    On 2006-08-10 14:52:04


    if its only samples does it matter it the image isnt holographic?

  2. Jonathan

    On 2006-08-11 02:14:32


    You can't print hologrammes with a typical inkjet printer, they would always come out flat (no 3D effect). Probably best to send away your hologramme file to a special printers, but it'll probably cost a lot for just a one-off. I imagine you probably need some special software to create the hologramme file too, and the reference images. I really don't know how they make those cool 3D hologrammes but find them hypnotising to play with!

  3. danuitti

    On 2006-08-10 14:52:52


    You would need a holographic image printer. A regular inkjet printer won't do the trick. Here is one typical supplier http://www.fargo.com/products/vss.asp Good luck

  4. Hatman

    On 2006-08-11 03:38:55


    A holographic image is created by making microscopic indentations in a reflective medium - so small that the reflected light interferes with itself at certain wavelengths and produces colours and apparently 3D images when viewed with two eyes. Any colours in the image are not 'real' - they are actually produced by the differences in the way that the light is reflected by different spacing of the indentations, somewhat in the way that a CD produces rainbows. It needs a very specialised process and "printer" to produce a reflective hologram. I see that someone above has given you some links to suppliers. It depends on your print run but the setup costs are quite large compared with the printing, so it may not be feasible. About half an hour's research should tell you. It's certainly not possible to produce a hologram using the tools you suggest!

  5. TBRMInsanity

    On 2006-08-10 14:53:07


    You need special equipment for that. The best way to do that is get a company to produce stickers that are holographic and use a embosser printer to add the colouring on top.