Entrust YMCKT color ribbon for DS3 printer — 250 prints (model 525100-001-S100)

Entrust YMCKT color ribbon for DS3 printer delivers up to 250 full-color PVC card prints using sequential yellow, magenta, cyan, black and clear topcoat panels. Designed for DS3 card printers, the ribbon produces photo-quality, durable images with an integrated clear overlaminate layer that improves scratch and fade resistance. The product is suitable for direct-to-card dye-sublimation printing where accurate color reproduction and a protective finish are required for identification badges, membership cards and access credentials.

Advantages

The YMCKT configuration provides a complete color set plus a protective topcoat in a single pass, reducing handling and improving throughput. The clear topcoat extends card life by resisting abrasion and environmental wear, while dye-sublimation color panels deliver smooth gradations and photographic detail. Compatibility with DS3 printers ensures correct panel sequencing and consistent results across runs.

Suitable for

• ID and photo identification cards
• Employee and visitor access badges
• Membership, loyalty and event cards
• Short-run color personalization where a protective finish is needed

When it may not be suitable

This ribbon is intended for use with DS3 direct-to-card dye-sublimation printers and may not perform correctly in thermal transfer or retransfer printers. It is optimized for up to 250 single-sided full-color prints per ribbon; operations requiring higher-volume continuous printing or double-sided printing without additional ribbons may need alternative ribbon configurations or additional accessories.

Key specifications

• Color panels: Yellow, Magenta, Cyan, Black and Clear Topcoat
• Print technology: dye-sublimation thermal transfer for direct-to-card printing
• Yield: up to 250 full-color single-sided PVC card prints
• Compatibility: designed for use with DS3 series card printers
• Finish: integrated clear protective overlaminate for improved scratch and fade resistance

How to use

Install the ribbon into the DS3 printer following the printer manufacturer’s loading procedure, ensuring correct orientation so panels feed in the proper sequence. Configure the printer driver or software for YMCKT ribbon selection and set print quality and color corrections as required. After printing, allow a short period for the topcoat to cure if recommended by the printer manual, then inspect sample cards for color accuracy and adhesion before proceeding with larger batches.

What to consider before purchase

• Verify compatibility with your specific DS3 printer model and firmware version.
• Confirm the required yield (250 prints) matches your expected print volume per ribbon change.
• Check that single-sided YMCKT with clear topcoat meets your durability and security requirements.
• Ensure storage conditions follow manufacturer guidance to preserve ribbon performance (avoid extreme temperature and humidity).

Usage recommendations

For consistent results, perform regular printer maintenance such as cleaning rollers and print heads, use genuine ribbons compatible with DS3 printers, and run test prints when changing ribbon batches or printer settings. Store unopened ribbons in their original packaging in a cool, dry place to maintain color fidelity and yield.