The following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these characteristics when evaluating new paper stock.
The printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60 to 176 g/m2 (16 to 47 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 75 g/m2 (20 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, causing jams. For best performance, use 80 g/m2 (21 lb bond) grain long paper. For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 in.), we recommend 90 g/m2 or heavier paper.
Curl is the tendency for paper to curl at its edges. Excessive curl can cause paper feeding problems. Curl can occur after the paper passes through the printer, where it is exposed to high temperatures. Storing paper unwrapped in hot, humid, cold, or dry conditions, even in the trays, can contribute to paper curling prior to printing and can cause feeding problems.
Paper smoothness directly affects print quality. If paper is too rough, toner cannot fuse to it properly. If paper is too smooth, it can cause paper feeding or print quality issues. Always use paper between 100 and 300 Sheffield points; however, smoothness between 150 and 200 Sheffield points produces the best print quality.
The amount of moisture in paper affects both print quality and the ability of the printer to feed the paper correctly. Leave paper in its original wrapper until it is time to use it. This limits the exposure of paper to moisture changes that can degrade its performance.
Condition paper before printing by storing it in its original wrapper in the same environment as the printer for 24 to 48 hours before printing. Extend the time several days if the storage or transportation environment is very different from the printer environment. Thick paper may also require a longer conditioning period.
Grain refers to the alignment of the paper fibers in a sheet of paper. Grain is either grain long, running the length of the paper, or grain short, running the width of the paper.
For 60 to 176 g/m2 (16 to 47 lb bond) paper, use grain long fibers.
Most high-quality xerographic paper is made from 100% chemically treated pulped wood. This content provides the paper with a high degree of stability resulting in fewer paper feeding problems and better print quality. Paper containing fibers such as cotton possesses characteristics that can negatively affect paper handling.
Using appropriate paper prevents jams and helps ensure trouble-free printing.
To help avoid jams and poor print quality:
Always use new, undamaged paper.
Before loading paper, know the recommended print side of the paper. This information is usually indicated on the paper package.
Do not use paper that has been cut or trimmed by hand.
Do not mix paper sizes, types, or weights in the same source; mixing results in jams.
Do not use coated papers unless they are specifically designed for electrophotographic printing.
Use these guidelines when selecting preprinted forms and letterhead:
Use grain long for 60 to 176 g/m2 weight paper.
Use only forms and letterhead printed using an offset lithographic or engraved printing process.
Avoid papers with rough or heavily textured surfaces.
Use papers printed with heat-resistant inks designed for use in xerographic copiers. The ink must be able to withstand temperatures up to 200°C (392°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions. Use inks that are not affected by the resin in toner. Inks that are oxidation-set or oil-based generally meet these requirements; latex inks might not. When in doubt, contact the paper supplier.
Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 200°C (392°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions.