Time Clock - Types

Types

Although there are many brands and variations of time clocks, it’s noted that there are 4 key variations of time clocks, basic, self calculating, time and date stamps, and software based time and attendance systems.

A basic time clock will just stamp the date and time on a time card. It may feature a bell or signal relay to signal a certain time or break. These will usually be activated by a button that a worker must press to stamp their card. Although they are an effective method of recording time, these types of machine are flawed. Common issues include overstamping, where one time is stamped over another, and buddy stamping, where a friend clocks in another member of staff. A basic clock can range in functionality with more features on higher end machines or more industrial uses.

The time cards usually have the workdays, "time in", and "time out" areas marked on them so that employees can "punch in" or "punch out" in the correct place. The employee is responsible to line up the correct area of the card to be punched with an indicator on the time card. Software applications offer such a system.

There are two different types of time cards conventionally used with a manual time clock, clipper and punch hole cards. There are also variations based on manufacture and machine used, and whether the user wants to record weekly or monthly recordings. Typically, time cards are divided into sections for time and day stamping. More advanced time clocks require more advanced cards.

Self-calculating machines are similar to basic time clocks. Nevertheless, at the end of each period the total time recorded is added up allowing for quicker processing by HR or payroll. These machines sometimes have other functions such as automatic stamping, dual colour printing and automated column shift.

Software based time and attendance systems are similar to paper based systems, but they rely on computers and check-in terminals. They are backed up with software that can be integrated with the HR department and in some cases payroll software. These types of systems are becoming more popular but due to high initial costs they are usually only adopted by large business of over 30 employees. Despite this they can save a business a lot of money every year by cutting down errors and reducing administration time.