Paper and specialty media guidelinesPaper guidelinesPaper characteristicsThe following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these characteristics when evaluatingnew paper stock.WeightThe printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60–176 g/m2 (16–47 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than60 g/m2 (16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, causing jams. For best performance, use 75 g/m2 (20 lbbond) grain long paper. For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 in.), we recommend 90 g/m2 (24 lb) or heavierpaper.CurlCurl is the tendency for paper to curl at its edges. Excessive curl can cause paper feeding problems. Curl can occurafter the paper passes through the printer, where it is exposed to high temperatures. Storing paper unwrapped inhot, humid, cold, or dry conditions, even in the trays, can contribute to paper curling prior to printing and can causefeeding problems.SmoothnessPaper smoothness directly affects print quality. If paper is too rough, then toner cannot fuse to it properly. If paperis too smooth, then it can cause paper feeding or print quality issues. Always use paper between 100 and 300 Sheffieldpoints; smoothness between 150 and 250 Sheffield points produces the best print quality.Moisture contentThe amount of moisture in paper affects both print quality and the ability of the printer to feed the paper correctly.Leave paper in its original wrapper until it is time to use it. This limits the exposure of paper to moisture changes thatcan degrade its performance.Condition paper before printing by storing it in its original wrapper in the same environment as the printer for 24 to48 hours before printing. Extend the time several days if the storage or transportation environment is very differentfrom the printer environment. Thick paper may also require a longer conditioning period.Grain directionGrain refers to the alignment of the paper fibers in a sheet of paper. Grain is either grain long, running the length ofthe paper, or grain short, running the width of the paper.For 60–176 g/m2 (16–47 lb bond) paper, grain long paper is recommended. For paper heavier than 176 g/m2, grainshort is recommended.Paper and specialty media guidelines87
