Media specifications
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3
Media is paper, card stock, transparencies, labels, and envelopes. The last four are sometimes referred to as specialty
media. The printer provides high quality printing on a variety of media. A number of things must be considered concerning
media before printing. This chapter provides information to help make media selections and how to care for media.
Media guidelines
Selecting the appropriate media for the printer helps avoid printing problems.
The default Paper Weight setting in the Paper Menu is Normal. For paper less than 20 lb bond (75 g/m
2
), choose the Light
setting. For 32 lb bond to 47 lb bond (120 g/m
2
to 175 g/m
2
), choose the Heavy setting.
The following sections contain guidelines for choosing the correct media for the printer.
Paper
To ensure the best print quality and feed reliability, use 90 g/m
2
(24 lb) xerographic, grain long paper. Business papers
designed for general business use may also provide acceptable print quality.
Always print several samples before buying large quantities of any type of media. When choosing any media, consider the
weight, fiber content, and color.
The Laser printing process heats paper to high temperatures of 230°C (446°F) for non-MICR applications. Use only paper
able to withstand these temperatures without discoloring, bleeding, or releasing hazardous emissions. Check with the
manufacturer or vendor to determine whether the paper chosen is acceptable for laser printers.
When loading paper, note the recommended print side on the paper package, and load paper accordingly. For more
information, see Loading the trays.
Paper characteristics
The following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. It is recommended that these guidelines are followed
when evaluating new paper stock.
