How to replace a ribbon on a Magicard Printer - 300, 600 and Pronto

Whether you are printing visitor passes or secure employee badges, a fresh ribbon is essential for crisp, professional cards. While Magicard printers are designed for ease of use, the loading method changes slightly depending on whether your model uses a spool or a cartridge.

Before you start, make sure you have the correct supplies. You can find the specific match for your model in our Printer Ribbons collection.

Important: Clean Before You Load

The best time to clean your printer is between ribbon changes. Dust and debris are the enemies of a perfect print and can damage your printhead over time.

Use a Printer Cleaning Kit to wipe down the rollers and printhead every time you swap out a ribbon. It only takes a minute and adds years to your printer's life.

1. The Spindle System (Magicard Pronto & Magicard 600)

Both the Pronto and the 600 use a traditional spooling system. The process is identical for both, with the only difference being how you open the lid.

Step 1: Open the Lid

• Pronto: Lift the blue release tab at the front.
• Magicard 600: Press the white button on top of the lid.

Step 2: Remove the Old Ribbon

• Lift out the blue spindle (located at the back) first.
• Wind any unused ribbon onto the spool so the two ends meet, then lift out the white spindle.
• Tip: You can stand the old ribbon up by the spindles to keep the film off your desk.

Step 3: Load the New Ribbon

• Take your new ribbon and insert the blue spindle into the back slot first.
• Place the white spindle into the front slot.
• Close the lid until you hear a firm click.

2. The Cartridge System (Magicard 300)

The Magicard 300 (using the MC200YMCKO ribbon) simplifies the process with a pre-loaded cartridge. There is no winding required—it is a simple "plug and play" swap.

Step 1: Open and Remove

• Open the top cover.
• Locate the handle on the top of the existing ribbon cartridge and pull it straight up to remove it.

Step 2: Insert and Calibrate

• Unpack your new cartridge and hold it by the handle with the ribbon facing down.
• Slide it gently into the slots until it fits securely.
• Close the lid and power on the printer. If the screen asks you to calibrate, simply follow the prompts.

Summary

• Pronto & 600: Blue to the back, White to the front.
• 300: Lift the handle, drop in the new cartridge.

Need to restock? Visit our Card Printer Ribbons page for genuine supplies, and don't forget to grab a Printer Cleaning Kit to keep your prints looking sharp!