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General Guidelines
2-6
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.
Other Paper Properties
Porosity: Refers to the density of the paper structure; that is, how openly
or compactly the fibers are bonded.
Stiffness: Limp paper can buckle inside the printer, while paper that is too
stiff may bind. Either way the result is a paper jam.
Curl: Most paper has a natural tendency to curl in one direction. The
paper should be loaded so that the natural curl is downward, to counteract
the upward curl imparted by the printer. Printed sheets will then come out
flat. Most paper also has a top and bottom surface. Loading instructions
are usually given on the paper package.
If the paper is considerably curled in one direction, e.g. when the paper
was used to print on one side, try to roll the paper in the opposite
direction to counteract the curl. Printed sheets will then come out flat.
Electrostatic properties: During the printing process, the paper is
electrostatically charged to attract the toner. The paper must be able to
release this charge so that printed sheets do not cling together in the
output tray.
Whiteness: The contrast of the printed page depends on the whiteness of
the paper. Whiter paper provides a sharper, brighter appearance.
Quality control: Uneven sheet size, corners that are not square, ragged
edges, welded (uncut) sheets, and crushed edges and corners can cause the
printer to malfunction in various ways. A quality paper supplier should
take considerable care to ensure that these problems do not occur.
Packaging: Paper should be packed in a sturdy carton to protect it from
damage during transport. Quality paper obtained from a reputable
supplier is usually properly packaged.
Note