All Eltron printers feature the same basic printing operations through dye sublimation and thermal transfer printing that utilize different types of media. Your high-quality Eltron printer will operate at its optimum performance when only using Eltron certified supplies. Using Eltron supplies, you are guaranteed consistent performance and true compatibility with your Eltron printer. TrueColor monochrome resin ribbons utilize “thermal transfer printing technology”", a process by which a heated printhead is used to transfer a digitized image from the ribbon to the surface of the card."