Digital Laser Printers Guide to Paper and Other Media

This document serves as a comprehensive guide for selecting, storing, and handling various media types for Digital laser printers, emphasizing their impact on print quality and printer performance. It outlines the laser electrophotography process and the critical characteristics print media must possess, such as the ability to accept and hold an electrical charge and move smoothly through the paper path.

For optimal results, the guide recommends using paper specifically designed for laser printers or photocopiers, characterized by smooth finish, uniform composition, high brightness (minimum 84%), and ideal moisture content (4-6% by weight), with a preference for 20-pound paper. It details specific characteristics like brightness, curl, cotton content (max 25% recommended), moisture, opacity, smoothness, and weight. Proper paper storage (20±3°C and 45% relative humidity) and handling (acclimatization, loading full packages, discarding damaged sheets) are crucial to prevent misfeeds and jams. Special considerations are given to colored paper (avoid coated types), prepunched paper (smooth hole edges), and preprinted forms/letterhead (requiring heat-resistant inks).

Beyond paper, the guide addresses other media:

• Transparencies: Must withstand high temperatures (up to 195°C/385°F) without melting, should not be sensitive to silicone oils, and must not have paper backing.
• Labels: The adhesive must endure high heat and pressure without melting or seeping and remain strong enough to prevent labels from separating. Using the straightest possible paper path is advised.
• Card Stock: Explicitly discouraged due to its thickness and inflexibility, which can cause severe jamming and printer damage.
• Envelopes: Not standard for all printers; if supported, they require heat-resistant glue to prevent sealing during printing, and a straight paper path is recommended to minimize twisting.

Finally, the document includes a troubleshooting section, suggesting users verify environmental conditions, handling procedures, and media specifications when experiencing print quality issues or jams. It also provides ordering information for Digital-brand media and advises testing any new third-party media before bulk purchase.