104 Card Design Tasks
Print Blocking Syntax
The syntax or structure of each print blocking escape is ~XX%n1n2n3n4?, where: 
Print Blocking in a Direct-to-Card Printer
The following examples show how to determine the values for the block print escape. 
~  The beginning of the escape.
 XX The type of action:
 PB—Print Block 
 TA—Topcoat Add 
 TR—Topcoat Remove
% The start of values.
n1 The distance (in mm) from the top of the card to the start of the print blocking 
area.
n2 The distance (in mm) from the left edge of the card to the start of the print 
blocking area.
n3 The width (in mm) of the print blocking area.
n4 The height (in mm) of the print blocking area.
? The end of the escape.
 The dimensions shown in the following examples are for general reference. The 
size, shape, and location of the magnetic stripe, smart card chip, or signature 
panel can vary based on the card stock you use. Test your escapes to make sure 
that the blocking areas are correct.
 Blocking typically extends 0.05 inch (1.27 mm) outside the edges of a feature. The 
diagrams and dimensions shown include the extended blocking region.