Image-formation troubleshooting When working with customers, obtain a print sample before troubleshooting the printer. Ask the customer to describe the quality expected from the printer. The print sample also helps clarify the customer’s description of the problem. Often an image-formation problem can be linked to media that is outside the specifications Hewlett-Packard has established for optimum printer performance. See “Media troubleshooting” on page 209 for help with persistent image-formation problems. Table 39. Image-quality checks C7058-90936 Image-formation troubleshooting 199 Image-quality checks Action Does the problem repeat on the page?
Use the “Repetitive defect ruler” on page 207. Is the toner cartridge full and is it manufactured by HP? See “Check the toner cartridge” on page 200. Is the customer using print media that meets all HP specification standards? See "Media specifications" in chapter 2. Is the print sample similar to those in the image defect tables? Compare the sample to the tables and perform the actions recommended in the “Image defect tables” on page 201. Is the problem on the toner cartridge or the transfer roller? Perform the “Half self test functional check” on page 208 to determine the location of the defect.
If a dark and distinct toner image is present on the drum’s surface, assume that the first four functions of the electrophotographic process are functioning (cleaning, conditioning, writing, and developing—See "Image formation system" in chapter 5), and troubleshoot the failure as a transfer or fusing problem. Is the customer using a media type recommended for this product? See “Media troubleshooting” on page 209.