Paperandspecialtymediaguidelines

Paper guidelines

Paper characteristics

The following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these characteristics when evaluating new paper stock.

Weight

The printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60–176 g/m2 (16–47 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 60 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 in.), we recommend 90 g/m2 (24 lb) or heavier paper.

Curl

Curl is the tendency for paper to curl at its edges. Excessive curl can cause paper feeding problems. Curl can occur after the 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 feeding problems.

Smoothness

Paper smoothness directly affects print quality. If paper is too rough, then toner cannot fuse to it properly. If paper is too smooth, then it can cause paper feeding or print quality issues. Always use paper between 100 and 300 Sheffield points; smoothness between 150 and 250 Sheffield points produces the best print quality.

Moisture content

The 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 that can degrade its performance.

Condition paper before printing by storing it in its original wrapper in the same environment as the printer for 24 to 48 hours before printing. Extend the time several days if the storage or transportation environment is very different from the printer environment. Thick paper may also require a longer conditioning period.

Grain direction

Grain refers to the alignment of the paper fibers in a sheet of paper. Grain is either grain long, running the length of the 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, grain short is recommended.

Paper and specialty media guidelines

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Dell 5230N/DN, 5350dn manual Pap er and specialty m e dia g uidelin es, Paper guidelines, Paper characteristics

5230N/DN, 5350dn specifications

The Dell 5350, 5350dn, 5230n, 5230dn, and 5230 printers represent a robust line of monochrome laser printers designed to meet the demands of high-volume printing environments. These models are tailored for business users who require reliable performance and high-quality output without sacrificing speed or efficiency.

The Dell 5350 is known for its impressive print speed, capable of delivering up to 65 pages per minute (ppm). This makes it an excellent choice for organizations that need to produce large volumes of documents quickly. The 5350dn variant includes duplex printing capabilities, allowing for automatic double-sided printing, which not only saves paper but also streamlines workflow. Both models support a high monthly duty cycle, which caters to heavy printing needs while maintaining consistent performance.

Turning to the Dell 5230n and 5230dn, these printers also boast maximum print speeds of up to 60 ppm. Similar to the 5350dn, the 5230dn model provides automatic duplexing, enhancing operational efficiency. The 5230 series is designed with a focus on accessibility, featuring a user-friendly interface that simplifies navigation and reduces the learning curve for new users.

One of the standout features across these models is their robust paper handling capabilities. With multiple input trays and the option for additional paper trays, users can easily manage different media types and sizes, accommodating everything from standard letter-sized paper to heavier cardstock. This versatility makes the printers ideal for various printing tasks, including reports, presentations, and marketing materials.

All models in this series utilize advanced toner technology, which delivers sharp text and crisp images. The high yield toner cartridges available for these printers ensure that users can print longer without frequent replacements, which reduces overall printing costs.

In terms of connectivity, these Dell printers support USB, Ethernet, and optional wireless capabilities, ensuring seamless integration into different network environments. Security features, such as secure print options, help protect sensitive information, making these printers suitable for environments with strict confidentiality requirements.

In summary, the Dell 5350, 5350dn, 5230n, 5230dn, and 5230 printers offer a powerful combination of speed, efficiency, and user-friendly features tailored for high-volume printing. Their advanced technologies and flexible configurations ensure that businesses can achieve reliable performance while maintaining cost-effectiveness in their printing operations.