Paper and specialty media guidePaper guidelinesSelecting the correct paper or specialty media reduces printing problems. For the best print quality, try a sample of thepaper or specialty media before buying large quantities.Paper characteristicsThe following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these characteristics when evaluatingnew paper stock.WeightThe standard printer trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 90‑g/m 2 (24‑lb) bond grain long paper. Theoptional trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 120‑g/m2 (32‑lb) bond grain long paper. The multipurposefeeder can automatically feed paper weights up to 163‑g/m2 (43‑lb) bond grain long paper. 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‑lb)bond grain long paper. For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 inches), it is recommended to use 90 g/m2(24 lb) or heavier paper.Note: Two‑sided printing is supported only for 60–90‑g/m 2 (16–24‑lb) bond paper.CurlCurl is the tendency for paper to curl at its edges. Excessive curl can cause paper feeding problems. Curl can occur afterthe paper passes through the printer, where it is exposed to high temperatures. Storing paper unwrapped in hot, humid,cold, or dry conditions, even in the trays, can contribute to paper curling prior to printing and can cause feedingproblems.SmoothnessPaper smoothness directly affects print quality. If paper is too rough, toner cannot fuse to it properly. If paper is toosmooth, it can cause paper feeding or print quality issues. Always use paper between 100 and 300 Sheffield points;smoothness between 150–250 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 24–48hours before printing. Extend the time to 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.Paper and specialty media guide 38
