Lexmark XM3100 manual Paper guidelines, Tips on using card stock, Paper characteristics

Paper and specialty media guide 76

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 impact print quality. Print samples on the card stock being considered for use before buying large quantities.

•From the Paper menu, set the Paper Type to Card Stock.

•Select the appropriate Paper Texture setting.

•Be aware that preprinting, perforation, and creasing may significantly affect the print quality and cause jams or other paper handling problems.

•Check with the manufacturer or vendor to ensure the card stock can withstand temperatures up to 220°C (446°F) without releasing hazardous emissions.

•Do not use preprinted card stock manufactured with chemicals that may contaminate the printer. Preprinting introduces semi‑liquid and volatile components into the printer.

•Use grain short card stock when possible.

Paper guidelines

Selecting the correct paper or specialty media reduces 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 standard printer trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 90‑g/m2 (24‑lb) bond grain long paper. The optional trays can automatically feed paper weights up to 120‑g/m2 (32‑lb) bond grain long paper. The multipurpose feeder can automatically feed paper weights up to 163‑g/m2 (43‑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), it is recommended to use 90 g/m2 (24 lb) or heavier paper.

Note: Two‑sided printing is supported only for 60–90‑g/m2(16–24‑lb) bond 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, toner cannot fuse to it properly. If paper is too smooth, it can cause paper feeding or print quality issues. Always use paper between 100 and 300 Sheffield points; smoothness between 150–250 Sheffield points produces the best print quality.