Entrust Sigma DSE Printers

What is the Entrust Sigma DSE?

The Entrust Sigma DSE is the entry-level model in the Sigma range of ID card printers.
It’s designed for essential, low-to-medium volume card printing while still providing the same modern Sigma platform architecture as the DS-series.

You should choose the Entrust Sigma DSE ID card printer if you’re looking for a modern, reliable, and cost-effective solution to meet your essential badging needs. It offers high-quality direct-to-card printing at 300 dpi, making it more than capable of producing sharp, professional-looking IDs without the premium price tag of more advanced models. With a modest hopper size and compact design, the DSE fits neatly into office or reception environments without taking up too much space. Because it’s built on Entrust’s proven Sigma architecture, you benefit from a robust and supported platform, while paying only for what you actually need—making the DSE ideal for small-to-medium issuing programmes, visitor badging, event IDs, and any setting where affordability and simplicity are more important than high throughput or advanced encoding.

Key points about the Entrust Sigma DSE ID Card Printer

• Direct-to-card dye-sublimation printer

• 300 dpi resolution (also supports 300×600 and 300×1200 print modes)

• Suitable for basic ID cards, visitor badges, small business cards

• Can be configured as single- or dual-sided (depending on the specific DSE version)

• Input hopper usually around 100 cards, output around 25 cards

• Print speeds around 185 cards/hour (colour single-sided)

• Aimed at users who want a modern printer at a lower price point

• Ideal if you don’t need encoding, high throughput, or advanced security features

Who Buys the Entrust Sigma DSE?

The Entrust Sigma DSE is popular with organisations that need reliable, high-quality ID card printing without the higher cost or complexity of advanced systems. Customers choose the Entrust Sigma DSE because it offers a modern, secure, and easy-to-use solution while keeping running costs low.

1. Schools, Colleges, and Universities

Education providers often choose the Entrust Sigma DSE for student IDs, staff badges, and visitor passes. Its compact design and simple operation make it ideal for reception areas and administrative offices.

2. Small to Medium-Sized Businesses

SMBs rely on the Entrust Sigma DSE to produce staff ID cards, access badges, and visitor cards. It delivers professional print quality without requiring specialist technicians or large budgets.

3. Healthcare Providers

Clinics, medical centres, and care organisations use the Entrust Sigma DSE for staff and patient identification. Its security features and reliable performance make it a trusted choice in sensitive environments.

4. Retail, Hospitality & Visitor Management

Hotels, retailers, and leisure facilities select the Entrust Sigma DSE for membership cards, guest passes, and staff IDs. The printer’s straightforward setup and operation make it perfect for front-of-house areas.

5. Logistics & Transportation Companies

Logistics and transportation organisations turn to the Entrust Sigma DSE for driver, warehouse, and temporary contractor ID cards. It provides professional results without the cost of a high-volume printer.

6. Event & Temporary Badge Issuers

Event organisers, conference venues, and training centres choose the Entrust Sigma DSE because it is affordable, portable, and efficient at producing short-term visitor and event badges.

7. Security-Focused Organisations

Companies requiring secure ID cards but not advanced encoding often choose the Entrust Sigma DSE, which offers encrypted data transfer and secure boot protection while remaining easy to operate.

Optional Upgrades for the Entrust Sigma DSE?

The Entrust Sigma DSE can be customized with several optional upgrades to meet different ID card printing needs:

1. Magnetic Stripe Encoding

   • Optional magnetic stripe encoder supports ISO 7811 three-track or JIS Type II single-track formats.

   • Ideal for organisations needing simple access control or loyalty cards.

2. Smart Card Encoding

   • Optional contact smart card encoding supports ISO 7816 T=0 / T=1 standards.

   • Optional contactless smart card encoding supports formats like MIFARE, DESFire EV1/EV2, and HID iClass.

   • Suitable for secure access, payment, or multi-purpose ID cards.

3. Duplex (Dual-Sided) Printing

   • An optional duplex module allows printing on both sides of the card.

   • Some models offer upgrade kits to convert a single-sided DSE printer to dual-sided.

4. Wi-Fi Module

   • Optional wireless module enables printing over a Wi-Fi network.

   • Useful for flexible placement of the printer without running network cables.

5. Laminator / Overlay Module

   • Optional lamination module allows applying a protective overlay to cards.

   • Improves card durability and adds a security feature against tampering.

6. Security / Physical Lock Options

   • Physical locks and cable locks can be added to secure the printer.

   • The printer also supports a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for encrypted data and secure boot.

Types of Consumables for the Entrust Sigma DSE

The Entrust Sigma DSE supports a range of consumables for printing and maintenance. These include:

1. Colour Ribbons

• YMCKT: Standard full-colour ribbon with protective topcoat, available in 250 or 500-card capacities.

• ymcKT: Variant with a slightly different black panel for higher image yield.

• YMCKT-KT / ymcKT-KT: Ribbons with additional black panels, useful for duplex printing.

• YMCKT PET-G Friendly: Ribbon designed for PET-G card stock.

2. Monochrome Ribbons

• Black (Standard): For basic text or barcodes.

• Black (Premium / High Opacity): For very dark, dense black printing.

• White: For white text or graphics, including food-safe white.

• Metallic colours: Such as silver or gold for decorative or premium cards.

• Other colours: Red, green, blue, and others for special designs.

3. Cleaning Supplies

• Cleaning Cards: Used to clean the print path after changing ribbons or during regular maintenance.

• Adhesive Cleaning Rollers: Remove dust and debris from internal rollers.

What other Entrust printer models are available an what is the difference between them?

The Entrust Sigma DSE is the entry-level version of Entrust’s Sigma ID card printer series, designed to provide reliable, high-quality card printing for organisations with basic or moderate printing needs. It is an ideal choice for schools, small businesses, and visitor management programs where simplicity, affordability, and professional results are priorities. For organisations with higher volume requirements or more advanced features, Entrust also offers the Sigma DS1 and Sigma DS2 models. The DS1 is suited for single-sided printing with enhanced speed and capacity, while the DS2 adds dual-sided printing, faster throughput, and optional smart card or magnetic stripe encoding for organisations that need more advanced functionality. Together, the DSE, DS1, and DS2 provide a range of options to meet different levels of card printing demands and budget considerations.

With fast output, intuitive controls, and strong security, the Entrust Sigma DSE is the perfect choice for entry-level to mid-volume ID card printing. Whether you’re printing a few badges a day or managing a small batch regularly, the DSE offers professional results with minimal fuss.

Why choose cards-x?  

Cards-X brings over 25 years of experience in the ID card industry, providing expert solutions and support for organisations of all sizes. With a deep understanding of ID card printing, access control, and secure credentialing, Cards-X has built a reputation for delivering reliable products, professional advice, and tailored services to meet the unique needs of each customer. Their long-standing presence in the market reflects a commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.

Ready to order?

Simply add the printer to your basket along with any required consumables, and simply place your order via then check out process.

If you would prefer to order on account please either email info@cards-x.co.uk or call us today on 0333 011 9992

For more information about our event and accreditation solutions and ID badge printers contact our friendly team.