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Choosing appropriate print media
47
Print media tasks and tips
Preprinted forms and letterhead
• Use only forms and letterhead printed using an offset lithographic or engraved printing process.
• Choose forms and letterhead types that absorb ink, but do not bleed.
• Avoid rough or heavily textured surfaces.
Use media printed with heat-resistant inks designed for use in xerographic copiers. The ink must withstand temperatures of
185°C (365°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions. Use inks that are not affected by the resin in toner. Inks
that are oxidation-set or oil-based should meet these requirements; latex inks might not. If you are in doubt, contact the
supplier.
Transparencies
• Use transparencies designed specifically for laser printers. Transparencies must be able to withstand
temperatures of 185°C (365°F) without melting, discoloring, offsetting, or releasing hazardous emissions.
We recommend Lexmark laser printer transparencies: part number 70X7240 for letter size transparencies; part
number 12A5010 for A4 size transparencies.
• To prevent print quality problems, avoid getting fingerprints on transparencies.
Envelopes
• Use envelopes made from 24 lb (90 g/m
2
) bond paper, or with a maximum weight of 28 lb (105 g/m
2
)
• Use envelopes that can withstand temperatures of 185°C (365°F) without:
– sealing
– excessive curling
– wrinkling
– releasing hazardous emissions
• Do not use envelopes that:
– Have excessive curl
– Are stuck together
– Are damaged in any way
– Contain windows, holes, perforations, cutouts, or embossments
– Have metal clasps, string ties, or metal folding bars
– Have postage stamps attached
– Have exposed adhesive when the flap is in the sealed position
– Are self-sealing
If uncertain about the envelopes being considered for use, check with the supplier.
• A combination of high humidity (over 60%) and high printing temperatures may seal envelopes.
Labels
• Use labels that can withstand temperatures of 185°C (365°F) without sealing, excessive curling, wrinkling, or
releasing hazardous emissions. Label adhesives, face sheet (printable stock), and topcoats must also be able to
withstand 25 pounds per square inch (psi) (172 kilopascals) pressure.
• Do not use labels with exposed adhesive.
• Do not print a large number of labels continuously.
• Do not use vinyl labels.