Lexmark MS817 Users Guide PDF - Page 180

Paper and specialty media guide 180 Paper guidelines Selecting the correct paper or specialty media reduces printing problems. For the best print quality, try a sample of the paper or specialty media before buying large quantities. Paper characteristics The following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these factors before printing on them: Weight The printer trays and multipurpose feeder can automatically feed paper weights between 60-176 g/m2 (16- 47‑lb) grain long paper. The 2100‑sheet tray can automatically feed paper weights up to 60-135 g/m2 (16-36‑lb) grain long paper. Paper lighter than 60 g/m2 (16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, and may cause jams. Note: Two‑sided printing is supported for 60-176 g/m2 (16-47‑lb) paper. Curl 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. Smoothness 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; smoothness between 150 and 250 Sheffield points produces the best print quality. Moisture content 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. Store paper 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 direction 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 60-176 g/m2 (16-47‑lb) paper, grain long paper is recommended. Fiber content 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 can negatively affect paper handling.