HP LaserJet Printers - Print Media Guide

Using paper
Understanding the types and quality of paper and following the HP recommendations will help to ensure proper
operation of your HP LaserJet printer and any accessories.
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Reading a ream label
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Opening and loading paper
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Setting the correct media type and size
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Paper types
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Guidelines for using paper
All papers are designed and manufactured for a specic use. Papers that are designed for the
electrophotographic process, which laser printers and copy machines use, are typically called laser- or copier-
grade papers. High-quality laser and copier papers are usually made from 100% chemical wood pulp and are
characterized by a smooth surface, controlled electrical properties, heat stability, and cleanliness. These
characteristics ensure good image transfer, fusing without excessive curl, and reliable printer operation.
NOTE: The current trend is to add higher quantities of ller to paper. Fillers are small particulates of things like
calcium carbonate, clay, and talc. These particulates must be properly bound or sealed in the sheet during the
paper-making process to prevent them from "dusting o" and contaminating the printer. For more information,
see the denition of coated paper in Paper types on page 8.
Some print jobs require a paper that has a more prestigious look or feel. For example, letterhead papers
generally have a watermark and often use cotton ber. These papers tend to have a rougher surface, and their
properties might not be controlled as well as those of photocopier papers. Poor toner adhesion and poor print
quality can occur if the paper roughness is excessive. Dierent print settings might be required to print on these
media. If poor print quality occurs, try another media to determine if the media or the printer is at fault.
Paper manufacturers make premium laser-grade bond papers that are optimized for laser printing.
NOTE: For print quality issues, see Troubleshooting print media problems on page 25.
Reading a ream label
The ream label identies the characteristics of the paper.
A ream label is typically placed or printed on the outside of the paper wrapping. The ream label should list the
weight, size, quantity of sheets, grain direction, and other information. The preferred side for printing might also
be indicated by an arrow on the ream label, although some manufacturers do not specify a print side. If a
preferred side is indicated, the paper should be loaded into the printer so that the preferred side will be printed
(or printed rst for duplexing). The preferred side might face up or face down in the input tray, depending on the
printer model and the input source. (See the support documentation for your printer model to determine the
orientation in the input tray.)
The following illustration shows an example of a ream label. For more information about the items on the label,
see the Glossary on page 43.
ENWW Using print media 5