Print quality troubleshooting

If you are experiencing problems with print quality, the following lists may help identify the cause of the problem.

Print quality problems associated with paper

Some print quality problems arise from use of inappropriate paper.

Use paper that meets HP paper specifications. See Supported paper weights and sizes.

The surface of the paper is too smooth. Use paper that meets HP paper specifications. See Supported paper weights and sizes.

The driver setting is incorrect. To change the paper type setting, see Type and Size.

The paper you are using is too heavy for the paper type setting you selected, and the toner is not fusing to the paper.

The moisture content of the paper is uneven, too high, or too low. Use paper from a different source or from an unopened ream of paper.

Some areas of the paper reject toner. Use paper from a different source or from an unopened ream of paper.

The letterhead you are using is printed on rough paper. Use a smoother, xerographic paper. If this solves your problem, consult with the printer of your letterhead to verify that the paper used meets the specifications for this printer. See Supported paper weights and sizes.

The paper is excessively rough. Use a smoother, xerographic paper.

 

Overhead transparency defects

 

Overhead transparencies may display any of the image quality problems that any other type

 

of paper will cause, as well as defects specific to printing on transparencies. In addition,

 

because transparencies are pliable while in the print path, they are subject to being marked

 

by the paper-handling components.

 

Allow transparencies to cool for at least 30 seconds before handling them.

Note

 

In the printer driver Paper tab, select Transparency as the paper type. Also, make sure

 

that the tray is correctly configured for transparencies.

 

Check that the transparencies meet the specifications for this printer. See Supported

 

paper weights and sizes. For more information, consult the HP LaserJet Printer Family

 

Print Media Guide. See http://www.hp.com/support/lj5500 for HP LaserJet Printer Family

 

Print Media Guide ordering information. For downloadable manuals, go to

 

http://www.hp.com/support/lj5500. When you connect, select Manuals.

 

The transparencies you are using are not designed for proper toner adhesion. Use only

 

transparencies designed for HP Color LaserJet printers.

 

If the color is off and the printer control panel displays the 41.5 UNEXPECTED TYPE IN

 

TRAY X error, the OHT sensor might be dirty. See Periodic cleaning for OHT cleaning

 

instructions.

 

Handle transparencies by the edges. Skin oil on the surface of transparencies can cause

 

spots and smudges.

ENWW

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