Last updated on Aug 15, 2024

How do you troubleshoot common print quality issues such as streaks, smudges, or misalignment in MPS?

Print quality issues can affect the performance, productivity, and satisfaction of your managed print services (MPS) clients. Whether it's streaks, smudges, or misalignment, these problems can compromise the quality and professionalism of your print output. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and resolve these issues before they escalate. Here are some tips on how to diagnose and fix common print quality issues in MPS.

1 Check the printer settings

The first thing you should do when you encounter a print quality issue is to check the printer settings. Make sure you have selected the right paper type, size, and quality for your print job. Also, check if you have enabled any features that might affect the print quality, such as toner saving, duplex printing, or color mode. Adjust the settings as needed to match your print requirements and preferences.

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Steve Park

Technical PM\SDM\Solution Architect\OPS Manager (COM\SDM)
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First is stock Dry Uncreased Then paper path Depends on printer Siemens laser roll fed Diff to Xerox pp diff too office mfd. Various drums Belts Corotron wires Fleece Felts Change Check output Then service call. Advanced operator training can be useful. I come from a security print background.... Stock cost and volumes impact priority. It's the print app value. Peaks in production need to be understood. Pm's are important prior to peaks.

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2 Clean the printer components

Another common cause of print quality issues is dirt, dust, or debris on the printer components. This can affect the transfer of toner or ink to the paper, resulting in streaks, smudges, or blotches. To prevent this, you should regularly clean the printer components, such as the print head, the toner cartridge, the drum unit, the fuser, and the paper feed rollers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to clean these parts safely and effectively.

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Jessica Moreno-Krenz

I Offer Tailored Solutions to Overcome Printing Challenges for Offices of Any Size | Ordained Minister
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With many newer models, there is a dual scanner attached to the ADF, so there are two slit glasses that may need to be wiped clean if you are experiencing streaks and smudges while making copies.

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3 Align the printer components

Sometimes, print quality issues can be caused by misalignment of the printer components. This can result in skewed, distorted, or blurred print output. To fix this, you should align the printer components, such as the print head, the toner cartridge, the drum unit, and the paper feed rollers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to perform the alignment procedure for your printer model.

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Jessica Moreno-Krenz

I Offer Tailored Solutions to Overcome Printing Challenges for Offices of Any Size | Ordained Minister
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You will also want to make sure that the paper is snug within each cassette. Often times it is a simple fix to correct a misalignment.

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4 Replace the printer consumables

Another possible reason for print quality issues is low or defective printer consumables, such as toner or ink cartridges, drum units, or fusers. These consumables have a limited lifespan and can degrade over time, affecting the print quality and performance. To avoid this, you should monitor the status and level of your printer consumables and replace them when they are near the end of their life or show signs of damage. Use only genuine and compatible consumables for your printer model to ensure optimal print quality and reliability.

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5 Update the printer firmware and drivers

The last thing you should do when you face a print quality issue is to update the printer firmware and drivers. The firmware and drivers are the software that control the communication and functionality of your printer. They can sometimes have bugs or glitches that can affect the print quality and performance. To resolve this, you should check for the latest firmware and drivers for your printer model and install them on your computer or network. This can help improve the print quality and compatibility of your printer.

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6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Robert Kolb

Senior Account Manager @ Xerox | CDIA+
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If it's a multifunction printer and there's a line when you copy, first print something. If the line is still there then it is indeed in the print section. If the line is gone then it's on the scan side. Clean the scan window or platen glass..

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How do you troubleshoot common print quality issues such as streaks, smudges, or misalignment in MPS?

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1 Check the printer settings

2 Clean the printer components

3 Align the printer components

4 Replace the printer consumables

5 Update the printer firmware and drivers

6 Here’s what else to consider

Managed Print Services

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