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A large majority of printer problems are
paper jams. In fact, a lot of the problems are related to the paper
itself. Fragments of paper that are torn in the printing process often
must be removed from the paper path. This usually involves
understanding the path that the paper travels from the registration
roller to the output roller. An intense visual check of this path will
usually disclose the location of the fragment. Care must be taken not
to damage the printer while removing the obstruction.
Parts that drive paper movement may fail causing paper to crumple or z-fold in the process of moving through the path. This will shut the printer down and require removal of any paper trapped in the process. Again, care in removal must be emphasized. Never remove any paper jam by pulling in the opposite direction. The printer gears could be damaged. It is recommended to clear such jams by pulling out paper in the same direction it goes through the printer. A paper jam can occur when the wrong type of paper is used. This can cause more than one page to enter the registration rollers. This is called paper clumping. A bad separator pad can also cause clumping. The defective separator pad should be replaced if it is the cause. Most of the problems in laser printers that require service are rooted in the paper dust that is accumulated in the paper path. This paper dust requires regular cleaning to prevent costly service at a later date. However, it is difficult to clean something that is not easily seen. The technician must open or take apart the printer and clean all the places where the dust accumulates. The technician must know where to clean and the proper method of cleaning. Service information on any printers that the technician is not familiar with should be consulted. Because there are static charges present in the laser printing process, dust also accumulates outside the paper path. At some point, this dust will fall back into the paper path and cause jams. Replacing toner units and pulling out paper jams can release toner that has not been fused to the paper. Compressed air or a toner vacuum can be use to remove excess toner. If toner leaves a smear on the printer, use an approved solvent to clean the affected area. |