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2.2 Selecting the Right Paper
2-6
2.2.3 Other properties of paper
Porosity
The density of paper structure, which indicates the
compactness of the fiber bonding. It is also the characteristic
that allows air to pass through paper (i.e., air permeability).
Stiffness
The ability of paper to resist deformation under stress. In the
printer, limp paper can buckle and too stiff paper can bind.
Both conditions result in paper jams.
Curl
Most paper naturally tends to curl one way. To produce flat
printouts, load the paper sheets so that the upward pressure
from the printer can correct their curling. When loading
paper, it is also important to distinguish between the front
side and backside of the paper. Be sure to follow the paper
loading instructions printed on the paper carton.
Electrostatic discharge
During the printing process, paper is given an electrostatic
charge to attract the toner. Therefore, the paper must
discharge the static electricity so that the printouts do not
stick to each other in the output tray.
Whiteness
The contrast of printed images depends on the whiteness of
the paper. Whiter paper produces sharper and clearer images.
Quality control
Uneven paper sizes, corners that are not square, jagged paper
edges, irregularly cut sheets, torn edges and corners, etc. can
cause various printer troubles. Before purchasing paper, find
out whether the paper store always takes measures to prevent
such problems in its products.
Packaging
Paper sheets should be shipped in strong cartons to protect
them from damage during transportation. Before purchasing
paper, make sure the store ships its products in proper
packages.
Specially processed paper
Avoid using the types of specially processed paper listed
below, even if the paper meets the other basic specifications
defined in this manual. Be sure to perform some test prints
before purchasing any type of paper in large quantities.
• Shiny paper
• Very thin paper
• Rough paper
• Perforated paper