EN Image formation troubleshooting 127
Image defect examples
This section illustrates some image defects and their possible causes. Since there are many
variables in the printing process, you may encounter image defects that are not illustrated in the
following examples. If you find a defect that is not illustrated, record the probable cause along with
the printing environmental conditions and save a copy of the defect for future reference.
Each example lists, in order, the probable causes of the image defect.
Faded print
Faded or light print may consist of a faded area, an entire page faded, or a
block of vertically aligned white streaks.
l The toner cartridge may be getting low on toner. Gently shake the
cartridge to redistribute the toner, or replace the cartridge.
l The paper may not meet HP’s paper specifications (for example, too
moist or too rough). (See the HP LaserJet 5L User’s Manual or the HP
LaserJet Printer Family Paper Specifications Guide.
l Adjust toner density setting through your software or printer driver.
l EconoMode may be on. Turn it off through your software or printer driver.
l There may be discontinuities in the high-voltage contact points. Clean
the high voltage contact points on the toner cartridge and transfer roller.
(See Figures 7-5 and 7-6.)
l Complete a Half Self-Test to verify that the image is appearing on the
drum. (See “Half Self-Test Functional Check” later in this chapter.) If this
procedure isn’t successful, replace the transfer roller.
l Replace the Laser/Scanner unit.
l Replace the DC Controller.
Staining
Stains usually appear as small, round, black dots that occur in the front or the
back of a page. Sometimes wide, inconsistent stains appear.
l The paper may not meet HP’s paper specifications (for example, too
moist).
l You may be printing on the wrong side of the paper. Try removing the
paper from the Paper Input Tray and turning it over. (The label on many
reams of paper has an arrow indicating the print side.)
l The printer may need cleaning. See “Cleaning Your Printer,” in
Chapter 4.
l he toner cartridge may be damaged. Replace it if maintenance
procedures do not improve print quality.
Vertical lines
Sometimes vertically aligned black streaks or smears can appear on
successive pages.
l The toner cartridge may be damaged. Replace it.
l The printer may need cleaning. See “Cleaning Your Printer,” in
Chapter 4.
l Replace the heating element.
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