Evaluate media use practices Handling and loading Often differences in techniques, missed steps, or media-handling methods are responsible for problems. Be sure the media is loaded correctly in the printer. Note Make sure that all printer users are observing these guidelines. Printer maintenance General cleanliness of the printer is the most important part of printer maintenance. Printers using media that creates a lot of dust and debris might require an aggressive maintenance schedule. Media dust accumulates in the following areas: pickup rollers media guides Take extra time to clean and inspect the paper path. If problems continue after cleaning, inspect for wear or damage.
Media stacking Consider the following guidelines when advising the customer about stacking media: Do not store cartons of reams directly on the floor; cartons should be placed on a pallet or on shelves. Do not stack cartons more than six on top of one another. Stack each carton squarely on top of the other. Stack each carton upright. Do not store individual reams in such a manner that they will curl or warp along the edges. Do not place anything on top of stored media. Do not place the media close to heating or air conditioning vents or open windows.
Evaluate environmental conditions Printing environment Ideally, the printing environment should be at room temperature and not too dry or too humid. Print media absorbs and loses moisture rapidly. Temperature extremes and excessive humidity can damage print media. Heat causes the moisture in the media to evaporate. Cold causes the moisture in the media to condense. Heating systems and air conditioners remove most humidity. When media loses moisture, streaks and smudging result. When paper absorbs moisture, light print and dropouts result. C7058-90936 Media troubleshooting 215