Print media tasks and tips

Tips on choosing the right print media

Selecting the right paper or other media reduces printing problems. For best print quality, try a sample of the paper or other media you are considering before buying large quantities.

See the Card Stock & Label Guide available on our Lexmark Web site at www.lexmark.com for more information about which paper provides optimum results for your printing environment.

Paper

For the best print quality, use 20 lb (75 g/m2) xerographic, grain long paper.

The printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60 to 90 g/m2 (16 to 24 lb bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 60 g/m2 (16 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed properly, causing jams. Paper heavier than 90 g/m2 (24 lb) should be fed through the optional 550-sheet tray or the manual feeder.

The laser printing process heats paper to high temperatures of 170°C (338°F) for non-MICR applications. Use only paper able to withstand these temperatures without discoloring, bleeding, or releasing hazardous emissions. Check with the manufacturer or vendor to determine whether the paper you have chosen is acceptable for laser printers.

Preprinted forms and letterhead

Use only forms and letterhead printed using an offset lithographic or engraved printing process.

Choose papers that absorb ink, but do not bleed.

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 170°C (338°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. If you are in doubt, contact your paper supplier.

Preprinted papers such as letterhead must be able to withstand temperatures up to 170°C (338°F) without melting or releasing hazardous emissions.

Transparencies

Use transparencies designed specifically for laser printers. Transparencies must be able to withstand temperatures of 170°C (338°F) without melting, discoloring, offsetting, or releasing hazardous emissions.

We recommend Lexmark laser printer transparencies: part number 70X7240 for letter size transparencies; part number 12A5010 for A4 size transparencies.

To prevent print quality problems, avoid getting fingerprints on the transparencies.

Envelopes

Use envelopes made from 24 lb (90 g/m2) bond paper.

Do not use envelopes that:

Have excessive curl

Are stuck together

Are damaged in any way

Contain windows, holes, perforations, cutouts, or embossments

Use metal clasps, string ties, or metal folding bars

Have postage stamps attached

Tips on choosing the right print media

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Lexmark 340 Tips on choosing the right print media, Paper, Preprinted forms and letterhead, Transparencies, Envelopes

342n, 340 specifications

The Lexmark 340n and 342n are part of Lexmark's robust line of monochrome laser printers designed for small to medium-sized businesses. These models are well-known for their reliability, advanced features, and the ability to efficiently handle a high volume of printing tasks.

The Lexmark 340n offers print speeds of up to 35 pages per minute (ppm), making it a strong contender for busy work environments where time is of the essence. It features a first-page-out time of less than 6.5 seconds, ensuring that users do not have to wait long to retrieve their documents. The 342n model similarly aligns with these performance metrics but provides enhanced capabilities, particularly in terms of memory and optional print finishing features.

One of the standout characteristics of these printers is their excellent print quality. Both models utilize Lexmark's Advanced Toner technology, which helps produce crisp text and sharp images, with a print resolution of up to 1200 x 1200 dots per inch (dpi). This makes them suitable for printing professional documents, reports, and presentations.

Connectivity options are abundant in these models, allowing users to integrate them seamlessly into their existing network infrastructure. The printers support USB, Ethernet, and optional wireless connections, providing flexibility for different workplace setups. Additionally, the Lexmark 340n and 342n are compatible with various mobile printing solutions, such as Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, enabling users to print directly from their smartphones and tablets.

Another important feature is the user-friendly control panel, which includes a 2-line LCD display for easy navigation through settings and functions. Both models also have a standard paper capacity of 250 sheets, which can be expanded with optional trays, making them capable of handling larger print jobs without frequent paper replenishment.

Furthermore, they are designed with energy efficiency in mind. The models comply with Energy Star certification standards, minimizing power consumption during operation and standby modes. This not only reduces operational costs but also supports environmentally friendly practices within the workplace.

In summary, the Lexmark 340n and 342n printers are equipped with a combination of speed, quality, and connectivity that meets the demands of modern businesses. With their advanced features and robust performance, these printers are ideal choices for organizations looking to optimize their printing processes while maintaining high standards of output quality.