Why Holograms?
Features and Benefits of Security Holograms
Combats Counterfeiting
 Cannot be optically scanned by computer
Cannot be reproduced with a photocopier
Deterrent to Counterfeiting
Provides Product Authentication
Quick and Easy Optical Validation
Embedded and Hidden Images in the Hologram
Increased Brand Sales
Enhances Packaging Appeal
Improves Consumer Brand Awareness
Discussion:
Security holograms are designed to combat counterfeiting.
Their unique optical properties to diffract light and create virtual
3D effects are impossible to copy using a scanner or photocopier.
Holograms are a deterrent to counterfeiters. Because holograms require
specialized equipment and technology to make, counterfeiters tend to
avoid products which are protected by holograms.
Because of their unique optical properties, holograms are quick and
easy to validate.
Hologram labels can also create a unique and attractive complement
to your existing packaging and product. Research shows that consumers
perceive a higher value for products protected with holograms. Consumers
believe manufacturers who use holograms care more about the quality
of the products they produce.
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Typical Applications for Security Holograms
Following is a listing of current applications for holograms used
throughout the world. This is intended to show the prevalence
of holograms as a proven method for combating counterfeiting and providing
product authentication. NovaVision does not produce all the applications
shown.
Holograms are used on a wide variety of projects where security needs
range from low to high security. Some low security security projects
would typically use a stock hologram. As security needs increase, additional
customizations would include serial numbers, custom imprints, custom
hologram images and hidden security features.
With the continued rise in counterfeit branded products, more corporations
are using custom holograms to protect their brand and corporate image.
Current Industry Applications for Security Holograms
Typical High Security:
Currency
Credit
Card
Legal
Documents
Government
Documents
Passport
Drivers
License
Medications
and Pharmaceuticals
Typical Medium and Low Security
Collectibles
and Memorabilia
Warranty
Seals
Branded
Apparel
Tobacco
Products
Liquor
and Spirits
Event
Tickets
Ski
Lift Tickets
Lottery
Tickets
Stamps
Gift
Certificates
Prescription
Pads
Automobile
Registration
Employee
ID Badge
Training
Certificates
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Typical End Use Applications for Security Holograms
This section is currently being constructed
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Why Choose NovaVision Holograms?
NovaVision's Features and Benefits
Quality Products
Bright and attractive holograms to enhance your product and image
Immediate tamper evident feature for added security
Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed
Large Product Selection
stock and custom products to fit your needs and budget
no minimum order quantity on most custom products
Fast Service
EXPRESS stock products ship the same day
custom imprinted stock images available within 1 week
custom holograms available within 30 days
Excellent Customer Service
Expert advice
Friendly service
Free product samples to verify our products meet your needs
Toll Free telephone number for USA-based customers
We accept all major credit cards, Paypal, and Western Union
For custom products, we maintain an image registry for added security
Hologram Producer (not a distributor)
Holograms are produced in our facility for added security
Since we produce, more customizations are possible
We control the production schedule for faster service
Reputable company in business for over 12 years
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NovaVision's Capabilities:
Many of these capabilities are available as a stock product or they
can be added as an optional feature on a customized hologram.
Transparent, silver metallic, or colored metallic holograms
with and without tamper evident features
embossed images
foil stamped images
Stock or custom hologram images
dot
matrix
2D/3D
3D
models
stereograms
Custom Imprinting:
consecutive serial numbers
matching serial numbers
bar codes
text and logo
single or multiple colors
holographic silver ink
hidden ink visible with UV-black light
Background Colors:
10 stock background color
custom background colors
Covert and Hidden Security Features:
text, logo and serial numbers printed with invisible ink visible
with UV-black light
hidden microtext in the hologram which require magnification to read
hidden image in the hologram which are laser readable
invisible taggants on the hologram which are machine readable
Industry
Associations
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
International Hologram Manufacturer’s Association (IHMA)
American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators (AAMVA)
National Corrective Industries Association (NCIA)
Document Management Industry Associations (DMIA)
Toledo
Regional Chamber of Commerce (TRCC)
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Choosing a Hologram for Your Application
NovaVision has a wide variety of holograms to meet your needs. To
choose the right hologram product for you application, there are 4
main criteria to consider:
- Level of security
- Timing when material is required
- Budget
- Functionality
1. Level of Security
Low security applications
If you have little or no security
protection now, any hologram will improve your situation. Stock hologram
images (see section A2) without custom imprints can be effective, especially
for one-time events where using a generic hologram sticker, which is
also sold to other users, still offers appropriate security. Also,
no customized imprint is required on our stock transparent ID overlays
(see Section A4), which is another affordable option
Medium security applications
If you
use the same hologram image repeatedly over several weeks, months
or years, then you may want additional customizations on the hologram.
Some of our stock holograms in Section A2 include unique serial numbers
which will provide added security. Another option is to imprint your
custom text, logo and/or serial number onto any of the stock holograms
in Sections A1 or A2.
High Security Applications
The best security
is to create a custom hologram image. In this case, your custom text/logo
is integral to the holographic image (see section A6 for more details).
Although a custom hologram image has high initial expenses, for projects
of over 100,000 labels/year, it often is the lowest cost option longer
term.
Other options to enhance security:
Fluorescing Ink
See our Radiating Globe image with serial number and
UV fluorescing ink; although a stock image the serial number is unique
and the UV fluorescing ink is a hidden security feature which is visible
with a UV black light. This image is available on same-day EXPRESS
service and requires no other customizations. This feature is also
available as a custom imprint on any stock or custom hologram.
Hidden Images and Microtext
See our Genuine Authentic stock image in
Section A1. To our knowledge, this is the only stock hologram image
in the industry which has both hidden micro text and a hidden image
readable with a laser pen. This image requires a custom imprint and
usually ships within 5 days (optional RUSH service is available). This
feature can be included on any custom hologram.
Advanced Customization
Any of our hologram images can be custom imprinted with
serial numbers, custom text, logos in single colors or multiple colors.
We also have a silver holographic ink and a hidden ink only visible
with a UV black light. We also offer 10 stock background colors. Any
of these features will further enhance the security of your stock or
custom hologram image.
Invisible Authentication Taggants
For custom holograms, we offer machine readable
taggants (see Section A7). Taggants are invisible to the naked eye,
but can be machine-read to quickly and reliably identify and authenticate
products.
Various Changes
Changing features adds security — change the background color,
change the color of the serial number, change the format of the serial
number, etc.
2. Timing When Material is Needed
If you need material the same day, see the stock security hologram
stickers in section A2. All of these holograms are available in same-day
EXPRESS SERVICE. Place your order by 2pm EST and the holograms will
be shipped the same day.
Our stock transparent hologram overlays (see section A4) for ID cards
are also available for immediate shipment without the need for customizations.
Customizing a stock hologram (sections A1, A2 or A4) with an imprint
of your custom text, logo or serial number normally requires 5 business
days. However, these products are available with optional RUSH service — 4
days, 2 days or 1 day service.
Creating a custom hologram image and then producing custom labels normally
takes 30 calendar days on the initial order. Optional RUSH service
is available (call for details). Repeat orders of custom hologram labels
are typically produced within 2 weeks.
3. Budget
Our EXPRESS SERVICE holograms (see Section A2) are designed for low
quantity orders — prices start at $99.00 for 1000 labels.
If your order quantity is 100,000 labels or less, the stock labels
with a custom imprint are very affordable (see Sections A1, A2, A3
and A4).
Pricing discounts begin at 25,000 labels. Please call for special pricing
on any stock or custom order of 25,000 labels or more.
If your order quantity is 100,000 labels or more each year, you should
consider a custom hologram. Although a custom hologram image has high
initial expenses, for projects of over 100,000 labels/year, it often
is the lower cost option longer term. For most projects of 250,000
labels/order, a custom image will be lower cost.
If you are a bargain hunter or your budget is extremely challenging,
please call us to inquire about unpublished special pricing. We occasionally
offer holograms with cosmetic blemishes in the finish. Functionally
the holograms performance is the same, but a visual defect results
in a price discount. Often the visual defects are very small and could
be acceptable for your project. Discounts for holograms with cosmetic
defects begin at 10%. We will provide free samples so you verify the
holograms are acceptable for your project.
4. Functionality
Label Colors
We offer both silver metallic and transparent holographic
materials. We also offer holograms with color metallic backgrounds.
Vibrant Images
All of our holograms feature a bright embossed hologram
image. Most of our hologram labels use dot matrix technology instead
of 3D or virtual depth. Dot Matrix holograms are brighter under all
lighting conditions (virtual depth images are only visible in excellent
lighting). Dot matrix holograms are more visible because they have
a wider viewing angle (virtual depth images have a very narrow viewing
angle).
Tamper Evidence
Most of our security holograms are tamper evident; after initially
applying, any attempt to remove the hologram sticker will self destruct
the hologram image.
Label Varieties
We have over 10 stock sizes and shapes. We also can
produce custom sizes and shapes.
Custom Imprinting
We offer all of the following
consecutive serial numbers
matching serial numbers
bar codes
text and logo
single or multiple colors
holographic silver ink
hidden ink visible with UV-black light
Optional Bar Codes
Bar codes are not readable on top of
a silver metallic or transparent holographic image. However, locating
the bar code on a white background on part of the hologram label will
result in a readable bar code.
Optional Color Coding
Our
Radiating Globe image is offered in 10 different background colors
(see section A1)
Any
stock image can be custom imprinted in 4 different colors
We
can produce custom background colors
Covert and Hidden Security Features
text,
logo and serial numbers printed with invisible ink visible with UV-black
light
hidden
micro text in the hologram which require magnification to read
hidden
image in the hologram which are laser readable
invisible
taggants on the hologram which are machine readable
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Production Samples
Custom Imprinted Holograms
This section is currently being constructed
Custom Holograms
This section is currently being constructed
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Registry
of Custom Imprints on Stock Holograms
Designated stock hologram labels must be custom imprinted with unique
text or a logo. For added security
we maintain a register of all custom imprints on stock labels to prevent
more than one customer from using the same custom imprint. For security reasons, we do no sell the designated
stock labels without a custom imprint.
Registry of Custom Holograms
Before we design and register a custom hologram image, we verify that
the proposed design is not already registered in the international
registry of hologram images with the IHMA.
This certifies that we aren't inadvertently copying an existing design
and confirms that your custom hologram image is 100% unique. Upon completion
and your approval of the finished product, we register your image with
the IHMA to assure some other reputable
holographic company does not copy your image.
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Specifications
& Intended Use
Labels are
constructed of durable polyester film (.002 inches thick).
Labels are die cut to size for easy removal, and
provided on rolls with “peel and stick” adhesive backing.
The adhesive
is a permanent acrylic, which is compatible with most papers, plastics,
and other non-porous surfaces. The adhesive is sunfast for at least one year
and will not yellow if used in an exterior application.
Tamper evident polyester labels have a printed silicon
release under the hologram image. The
release is typically in a “dots”
pattern. When removed, the release will self destruct
the hologram image, leaving a pattern of dots.
Background colors and imprint inks are colorfast
for exposure to sunlight for at least one year.
Resolution
of custom imprint is 200 to 300 dpi.
Imprint
Color Specifications for Hologram Labels: Green = PMS Green C; Dark blue
= PMS 286 C; Red = PMS 192 C
If the label will be exposed to harsh chemicals
or excessive abrasion, an optional clear lamination over the
custom imprint may be required for maximum durability of the
imprint.
Stock
labels are designed for manual application. Labels may be supplied on paper or film liner. If
auto-affixing, special order the optional polyester liner.
Each roll of labels is on a 3 inch ID core
and is provided with a dispenser carton.
Typical labels/roll:
• .75 inch square
labels: 2000 ./ roll
• 1.35 inch
/ 1.625” labels: 1000 / roll
To
apply labels the minimum application temperature is +35F
and application surface must be clean and dry. After application, the service temperature range is –50F to
+200F,
Polyester
hologram labels are suitable for indoor and outdoor applications;
the expected life for outdoor applications is 1 year minimum.
If printing ID cards with an ID card printer,
the hologram label should be applied after the card is printed. Applying the label before printing may interfere with the printing
quality and may damage the print head.
Labels are compatible with heat seal applications,
such as heat laminating ID cards.
For best security when using a lamination
pouch, apply the hologram to the core insert before heat sealing. However, labels can also be applied on the finished card after heat
sealing.
Labels
are compatible with silk or fabric ID badges; to improve the
tamper evidence feature on this type of material, use a laminator
to heat seal the hologram label after manually affixing. The added heat improves adhesion of the label
to the substrate, which improves the tamper evident release
feature.
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RoHS Compliance Letter (PDF)
CLICK HERE to download the RoHS Compliance Letter in PDF Format
Directions for Use
Our security labels have a built-in release pattern to show evidence of tampering. The release pattern will be in the form of words (OPENED, VOID, etc) or symbols (a "dots" pattern). The release pattern will separate from the label material leaving an adhesive residue on the surface to which it was applied and leaving the same pattern in the label material.
Directions
A) SURFACE TYPE: Adhesion is best on smooth, hard surfaces including most non-porous surfaces (glass, plastic, metal, painted surfaces, fiberglass, vinyl, etc) and many porous surfaces (paper, cardboard, bare wood, etc).
Since the label will leave an adhesive residue when removed, these labels are not recommended for delicate fabrics, leather, fine furniture, etc where cleaning up the adhesive residue may damage the finish.
Always test in an inconspicuous area to assure label adhesion; also confirm that the adhesive residue cleans up as intended.
B) STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE: Store at a maximum 90F temperature. Relative humidity at 35% to 90%. Shelf life is minimum 1 year. Cooler temperatures will extend the shelf life.
C) MINIMUM APPLICATION TEMPERATURE: The surface temperature must be a minimum +35F. However, our cold weather labels can be applied in temperatures as low as 0F.
D) SERVICE TEMPERATURE: After application, the labels will remain affixed for temperatures ranging from -40F to +200F.
E) SURFACE PREPARATION: The surface must be clean and dry. Initially wipe the surface with a clean dry paper towel.
If adhesion is poor, it may be neccessary to chemically clean the surface using isopropyl alcohol and a clean cotton cloth/pad. After cleaning, use a dry clean cotton cloth/padto dry the surface. Allow 1 minute for the residual alcohol to fully evaporate. Optional alcohol cleaning kits are available from NovaVision.
For some plastic surfaces and textured surfaces, it may be neccessary to lightly abrade the surface with sandpaper to improve adhesion.
F) AFFIX THE LABEL:
Peel the label from the paper backing and apply to the surface.
Under certain conditions the tamper evident feature can be inadvertently activated when the label is in the process of being affized. Here are tips to minimize "pre-triggering" of the tamper evident feature:
Minimize Contact
Minimize contact and pressure with the adhesive side
of the label. Use light pressure to manually remove the label and
transfer to your finger. Then, immediately apply the label to the
intended surface. The tamper evident feature is more likely to activate
if the adhesive side is handled with too much pressure, or the the
label is positioned on your fingers for an extended time.
Use Skin Moisturizer
When handling the labels, apply
a skin moisturizer to the tips of fingers which will come in contact
with the adhesive side of the label. The added moisture will minimize
the chance of activating the tamper evident feature during application.
If the skin on your fingers are dry and chapped, it is more likely
it will activate the tamper evident feature.
Use “rubber finger tips”
Wear
a rubber finger tip on the finger which is used to touch
the adhesive side of the label. The rubber finger tips
have a “nubby” side and
a smooth side — the smooth side works better. If needed, turn
the tip inside out to expose the smooth side. Rubber finger tips
are available at most office supply stores (they are typically used
to improve manual handling and sorting of paper).
Flag the Label
Peel back a portion of the liner (backer)
to expose a portion of the adhesive side of the label. Affix the
exposed portion of the adhesive to the intended surface, then peel
away the balance of the liner to fully affix the label.
Do not use a metal or plastic instrument
Using
a knife blade, tweezers or other hard, dry instrument to affix
the label is NOT recommended. The hard and dry surface will cause
the tamper evident release to activate.
G) REMOVE ADHESIVE RESIDUE:
After affixing tamper evident labels (or tape), when the label is removed it will leave an adhesive residue on the affixed surface. Optional adhesive removal kits are available from NovaVision. Here are tips to clean up the adhesive residue:
1. BLOTTER TECHNIQUE: For some surfaces, the label itself can be used to remove the adhesive residue without using any solvent. Use the removed label as a "blotter" -- press the adhesive side of the label onto the adhesive residue remaining on the surface. Repeat as needed to remove all the adhesive residue. If the blotting technique does not work, you will need to use a solvent to clean the residue.
2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SOLVENT: choose a solvent that will not damage the underlying surface. Mild solvents will take longer to clean the adhesive, but there is less chance of damaging the surface.
For example, for file cabinets, painted surfaces, etc, the safest solvent is a citrus-based adhesive remover, which is available at most grocery and pharmacy stores. Typical examples include household cleaner brand names such as "Goo Gone" or "Orange Sol". Always test in an inconspicuous area first to assure it will not damage the surface.
Stronger solvents are alcohol-based, such as isopropyl alcohol, -- the higher concentrations or more aggressive.
The most aggressive solvent is acetone (finger nail polish remover), which is only recommended for bare metal, glass, or plastic.
The most economical method is to buy a bottle of solvent and some cotton pads. However, another more convenient option (though a little more expensive) are alcohol prep pads, which are contained in a single use packet. Just tear open the packet and wipe the adhesive with the disposable alcohol pad.
3. APPLY AND RUB LIGHTLY: Apply the solvent to clean cotton pad (or cloth). Rub lightly to remove the adhesive. Repeat as needed. The milder adhesives require repeat applications.
CAUTION: Adhesive solvents are flammable. Keep away from heat, open flame, sparks, or other ignition source. Also, some solvents have health risks. Follow the manufacturers guidelines for using the product.
Optional adhesive removal kits are available from NovaVision.
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