In our four-part series dedicated to Magicard's secure ID solutions, today we dive into one of the company's flagship innovations: HoloKote. In a conversation with Darren Garbett, Magicard’s Technical Support Manager and specialist in this technology, we discussed the origins and evolution of this unique visual security feature that has remained a key asset for nearly two decades.
The origins of HoloKote
Darren explained that HoloKote is a unique security feature, originally patented by Magicard (European PATENT SPECIFICATION EP 0 817 726 B1, and US PATENT No: 5,990,918). Although the patent has expired, HoloKote and Magicard remain closely linked. This distinctive watermark is applied during printing as a “6×4 grid pattern” of repeated symbols, offering a layer of security. Best of all, from day one, Magicard committed to providing a set of HoloKote designs with all our direct-to-card printers, ensuring enhanced security is accessible to all our customers.
How HoloKote works: the ribbon and heat process
The technical process behind HoloKote is both efficient and essential for the durability of the cards. “HoloKote uses the clear overlay part (O) of a standard YMCKO or YMCKOK ribbon, which not only protects the card but also prevents fading due to UV exposure and normal wear.” The printhead heats specific areas of this overlay, imprinting the desired pattern or logo onto the card. The more heat applied, the more visible the watermark becomes, especially when tilted under light. “Without this overlay, the card could fade after just a few weeks of exposure to sunlight or general usage.” This method ensures that the card remains smooth to the touch while incorporating a strong visual security element, without needing additional consumables like holographic foils, making it a cost-effective solution.
Some standard HoloKote designs
Customising HoloKote for increased security
Beyond the standard HoloKote’s, on selected printer models like the Magicard 300, 600 and E+, you can also go for an own and personalised watermark, be it your corporate logo or any other design.
Custom HoloKote
This additional customisation process is driven by client preferences. “The client creates the artwork; we don’t design logos for them,” Darren emphasized. To ensure custom patterns won’t be copied, Magicard performs electronic and manual background checks to verify uniqueness.
Holopatch: Approaching the Authenticity of a Hologram Seal
Holopatch is designed to enhance visibility with a reflective patch that stands out when tilted, making it easier for security personnel to verify authenticity. This highly reflective gold seal ensures that a HoloKote watermark, whether standard or custom, is clearly visible under all lighting conditions. The additional square on the ID card allows security personnel to more easily verify the identity of the cardholder.
HoloKote and HoloPatch have undeniably become an integral part of Magicard’s identity. “When people think of HoloKote and HoloPatch, they think of Magicard.” Over the past years, both have been pioneers and industry-leading innovations to provide a reliable and unique visual security solution for ID cards.
