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Paper and specialty media guidelines
Paper and specialty media are paper, card stock, envelopes, paper labels, and transparencies. A number of items
must be considered concerning the selection of paper and specialty media before printing. This chapter provides
information on making selections and caring for papers and specialty media.
It is recommended that you try a limited sample of any paper or specialty media you are considering using with the
printer before purchasing large quantities.
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 characteristics when evaluating
new paper stock.
Weight
The printer trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 90 g/m
2
(24 lb bond) grain long paper. The multipurpose
feeder can automatically feed paper weights up to 163 g/m
2
(43 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 60 g/m
2
(16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, causing jams. For best performance, use 75 g/m
2
(20 lb bond) grain
long paper. For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 in.), we recommend 90 g/m
2
(24 lb) or heavier paper.
Note: Duplex printing is supported only for 60–90 g/m
2
(16–24 lb bond) 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 100–300 Sheffield points;
smoothness between 150–250 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.
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.
Paper and specialty media guidelines
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