Lexmark 436 manual Paper guidelines, Tips on using card stock, Paper characteristics, Weight, Curl

Paper and specialty media guide 57

Tips on using card stock

Card stock is heavy, single‑ply specialty media. Many of its variable characteristics, such as moisture content, thickness, and texture, can significantly affect print quality.

•From the printer control panel, set the paper size, type, texture, and weight in the Paper menu to match the card stock loaded in the tray.

•Print samples on the card stock being considered for use before buying large quantities.

•Specify the paper texture and weight from the tray settings to match the paper loaded in the tray.

•Preprinting, perforation, and creasing may significantly affect the print quality and cause jams or other paper feed problems.

•Before loading the card stock on the tray, flex and fan the card stock to loosen them. Straighten the edges on a level surface.

Paper guidelines

Select the correct paper or specialty media to reduce printing problems. For the best print quality, try a sample of the paper or specialty media before buying large quantities.

Paper characteristics

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

Weight

The printer trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 176‑g/m2 (47‑lb) bond grain long paper. The multipurpose feeder can automatically feed paper weights up to 176‑g/m2 (47‑lb) bond grain long paper. 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 inches), we recommend 90 g/m2 (24 lb) or heavier paper.

Note: Duplex printing is supported from 60–105‑g/m2(16–28‑lb) bond grain long 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.