Media Selection Specifications and Guidelines
Using Paper D-7
Using Paper
Potential Problems
Some textures improve paper feeding while others hinder the feed operation. Too smooth or
too rough paper can cause a variety of problems in D640 printers.
Felt Side vs.Wire Side
The way paper is manufactured results in two-sided paper properties. This, along with other
process variations, may make one side of the paper the preferred side to print on. The “top”
side of the paper sheet as it is formed is known as the felt side, and the “bottom” is known as
the wire side. Most manufacturers indicate the preferred printing side on the package.
Moisture Content
Note Moisture content is the most critical factor in paper performance in D640 printers. The
moisture content of most paper at the time of manufacture is about 4-6% of volume by weight.
This percentage can be altered as a result of environmental conditions during converting
processes, shipping, storage, and printing.
Storage, especially over long periods, can greatly influence moisture content. Because of the
hygroscopic properties of paper, unless proper humidity and temperature are maintained, the
paper will lose or gain moisture.
Table D-2 Finish (texture) potential problems
Problems Too Smooth Too Rough
Feeding
• misfeeds • misfeeds
• multi-feeds
Print
Quality
• poor toner adhesion
• washout will show up (loose
toner particles from a previ-
ously printed page)
• background toner scatter
• poor toner adhesion
• light and dark transitions (toner
migrates to the valleys of the paper
surface, but not the peaks)
• printed characters may have broken
edges
Premature
Wear
none
• registration roller
• paper path rollers
• fuser
• paper path guides
