Print Engine Specifications
SM Appendix 1-8 M126/M127/M128
1.2.8 MEDIA GUIDELINES
Paper characteristics
The following paper characteristics affect print quality and reliability. Consider these
characteristics when evaluating new paper stock.
 Weight—The printer can automatically feed paper weights from 60 to 176 g/m
2
(16 to 47 lb
bond) grain long. Paper lighter than 75 g/m
2
(20 lb) might not be stiff enough to feed
properly, causing jams. For best performance, use 80 g/m
2
(21 lb bond) grain long paper.
For paper smaller than 182 x 257 mm (7.2 x 10.1 in.), we recommend 90 g/m
2
or heavier
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; however, smoothness
between 150 and 200 Sheffield points produces the best print quality.
 Moisture content—The amount of moisture in paper affects both print quality and the
ability of the printer to feed the paper correctly. Leave paper in its original wrapper until it is
time to use it. This limits the exposure of paper to moisture changes that can degrade its
performance. Condition paper before printing by storing it in its original wrapper in the same
environment as the printer for 24 to 48 hours before printing. Extend the time several days
if the storage or transportation environment is very different from the printer environment.
Thick paper may also require a longer conditioning period.
 Grain direction—Grain refers to the alignment of the paper fibers in a sheet of paper.
Grain is either grain long, running the length of the paper, or grain short, running the width
of the paper. For 60 to 176 g/m
2
(16 to 47 lb bond) paper, use grain long fibers.
 Fiber content—Most high-quality xerographic paper is made from 100% chemically
treated pulped wood. This content provides the paper with a high degree of stability
resulting in fewer paper feeding problems and better print quality. Paper containing fibers
such as cotton possesses characteristics that can negatively affect paper handling.
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