Tips on choosing the right print media
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Understanding print media guidelines
• Make sure the Paper Type, Paper Texture, and Paper Weight settings are correct. (See “Paper Menu” in the Menus
and Messages Guide located on the Software and Documentation CD for detailed information about these
settings.)
• Make sure the paper is properly loaded in the source.
• Flex paper back and forth, and then fan. Do not fold or crease the paper. Straighten the edges on a level surface.
Selecting preprinted forms and letterhead
Use the following guidelines when selecting preprinted forms and letterhead paper for the printer:
• Use grain long papers for best results for 60 to 90 g/m
2
weights.
• Use only forms and letterhead printed using an offset lithographic or engraved printing process.
• Avoid papers with rough or heavily textured surfaces.
Use papers printed with heat-resistant inks designed for use in xerographic copiers. The ink must withstand temperatures
of 210°C (410°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions. Use inks that are not affected by the resin in toner.
Inks that are oxidation-set or oil-based should meet these requirements; latex inks might not. When in doubt, contact the
paper supplier.
Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 210°C (410°F) without melting or
releasing hazardous emissions.
Printing on letterhead
Check with the manufacturer or vendor to determine whether the chosen preprinted letterhead is acceptable for laser
printers.
Page orientation is important when printing on letterhead. Use the following table for help when loading letterhead in the
media sources.
Transparencies
Feed transparencies from the 250-sheet tray or the manual feeder. Try a sample of any transparencies being considered
for use with the printer before buying large quantities.
When printing on transparencies:
Media source or process Print side Top of page
250-sheet tray and
550-sheet drawer
Printed letterhead facedown The top edge of the sheet with the logo is
placed at the front of the tray.
Duplex (two-sided) printing from
trays
Printed letterhead face up The top edge of the sheet with the logo is
placed at the front of the tray.
Manual feeder Printed letterhead faceup The top edge of the sheet with the logo enters
the printer first.
Duplex (two-sided) printing from
Manual feeder
Printed letterhead face down The top edge of the sheet with the logo enters
the printer first.
