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Selecting the Right Paper
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Thickness (Caliper)
Thick paper is referred to as high-caliper paper and thin paper as low-
caliper paper. The paper used with the printer should be neither extremely
thick nor extremely thin. If you are having problems with paper jams,
multiple feeds, and faint printing, the paper you are using may be too thin.
If you are having problems with paper jams and blurred printing the paper
may be too thick. The proper thickness is 0.086 to 0.110 mm (3.4 to 4.3
mils).
Moisture Content
Moisture content is defined as the percent ratio of moisture to the dry mass
of the paper. Moisture can affect the paper’s appearance, feedability, curl,
electrostatic properties, and toner fusing characteristics.
The moisture content of the paper varies with the relative humidity in the
room. When the relative humidity is high and the paper absorbs moisture,
the paper edges expand, becoming wavy in appearance. When the relative
humidity is low and the paper loses moisture, the edges shrink and
tighten, and print contrast may suffer.
Wavy or tight edges can cause misfeeding and alignment anomalies. The
moisture content of the paper should be 4 to 6%.
To ensure the proper moisture content it is important to store the paper in
a controlled environment. Some tips on moisture control are:
• Store paper in a cool, dry location.
• Keep the paper in its wrapping as long as possible. Rewrap paper that
is not in use.
• Store paper in its original carton. Place a pallet etc. under the carton to
separate it from the floor.
• After removing paper from storage, let it stand in the same room as the
printer for 48 hours before use.
• Avoid leaving paper where it is exposed to heat, sunlight, or damp.
Paper Grain
When paper is manufactured, it is cut into sheets with the grain running
parallel to the length (long grain) or parallel to the width (short grain).
Short grain paper can cause feeding problems in the printer. All paper used
in the printer should be long grain.