HP 5100 Service Manual - Page 209

Note Image quality When you are working with customers, obtain a print sample before you begin troubleshooting their printer. Ask the customer to explain the quality expected from the printer. The print sample will also help clarify the image-quality issue. Image quality checks Action Does the problem repeat on Use the repetitive defect ruler on page 223. the page? Is the toner cartridge full and is it manufactured by HP? Use the checklist below to check the toner cartridge. Is the customer using print media that meets all HP paper specification standards? For more information about HP's paper specification standards, see chapter 1. Is the print sample similar to Compare the sample to the print quality tables and perform the those in the print quality corresponding procedures that are recommended. tables that begin on page 210? Is the problem with the toner Perform the half self-test functional check (see page 224) to determine the cartridge drum, the transfer location of the defect. roller, or the fuser? If a correct toner image is present on the drum's surface, assume that the first four functions of the electrophotographic process are functioning, and troubleshoot the failure as a transfer or fusing problem. If the image on the paper looks good before it enters the fuser, then a problem might exist in the fuser. Check the toner cartridge Image-formation defects are often the result of problems with the toner cartridge. If you suspect that the toner cartridge is the source of the problem, replace the toner cartridge before troubleshooting image defects. Use the following list to make sure that the toner cartridge is still operable.
Make sure that the toner cartridge has toner. The weight of a full toner cartridge is 1880 grams (66.3 oz); the weight of an empty cartridge is 1450 grams (51.1 oz).
Check the expiration date on the toner cartridge (it is stamped on the cartridge box).
Check the toner cartridge to see if it has been disassembled or refilled.
Make sure that the toner cartridge is seated correctly in the printer cavity.
Inspect the cartridge for toner leaking through worn seals. (If the drum has been manually rotated, it might have caused internal damage and toner spills can result.) Toner cartridges are rated for 10,000 images at 5% coverage. It is possible to wear out the gears and the cartridge seals before TONER LOW appears on the control panel if the 10,000-image expectancy is exceeded. See "EconoMode" on page 208. Q1860-90918 Chapter 7 Troubleshooting 207