REVERSE-IMAGE IDENTIFICATION CARD PRINTER
Methods of an identification card printer for calibrating a ribbon sensor detecting transition portions between adjoining ribbon panels and calibrating ribbon tension. Invention includes printer having print ribbon, transfer ribbon, printhead and first sensor located downstream of the printhead; printhead and biasing component having first support moveable between print and withdrawn positions, printhead is moveable (forward and floating) by first support; printer with base frame, first ribbon roll support, swing frame, wherein first ribbon roll support attached to base frame and supports first ribbon roll for rotation and swing frame rotatably mount to base frame for pivotal movement; printer having base frame, card transport, mechanism having components attached to base frame that transport card along print path, card guide in line with print path and includes adjustable position and base member lying over card path and pair of side guide member attached to the base member on opposing sides of card path; printer having card transport mechanism and bender with pinch roller assembly that receive card from card transport mechanism, wherein rotational axes of first and second roller are aligned in a plane that's non-perpendicular to card path.