What To Know
- Take a stack of paper and align the edge with the front of the tray.
- Carefully slide the paper stack into the tray until it rests against the back of the tray.
- Similar to the standard tray, adjust the paper guides to match the width of your chosen paper type.
If you’re a proud owner of an HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31, you know it’s a powerhouse for printing, scanning, and copying. But what happens when you need to print a document and realize you’re out of paper? Knowing how to load paper correctly is crucial for smooth operation and optimal print quality. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you never face a paper jam again.
Understanding the Paper Trays
The HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31 comes equipped with two paper trays:
1. Standard Tray: This tray is located at the bottom of the printer and holds up to 150 sheets of plain paper. It’s the primary tray for most everyday printing tasks.
2. Multipurpose Tray: This smaller tray, often called the manual feed tray, is located on the front of the printer. It can hold up to 10 sheets of various paper types, including envelopes, labels, and cardstock.
Loading Paper in the Standard Tray
1. Open the Tray: Gently pull the standard tray out until it stops.
2. Adjust the Paper Guides: Locate the paper width guides on either side of the tray. Adjust them inward so they’re snug against the paper stack.
3. Load the Paper: Take a stack of paper and align the edge with the front of the tray. Carefully slide the paper stack into the tray until it rests against the back of the tray. Ensure the paper stack is even and doesn’t extend beyond the tray’s capacity.
4. Close the Tray: Gently push the tray back into the printer until it clicks into place.
Loading Paper in the Multipurpose Tray
1. Open the Tray: Lift the cover of the multipurpose tray.
2. Adjust the Paper Guides: Similar to the standard tray, adjust the paper guides to match the width of your chosen paper type.
3. Load the Paper: Place the paper in the tray, ensuring the print side faces up. Don’t exceed the tray’s capacity.
4. Close the Tray: Gently close the multipurpose tray cover.
Tips for Loading Paper
- Avoid Overloading: Never load more paper than the tray’s capacity, as this can cause jams.
- Use the Correct Paper Type: Choose the appropriate paper type for your printing needs. The printer’s manual provides detailed information on the types of paper supported.
- Keep Paper Clean: Dust and debris can cause paper jams. Ensure your paper is clean and free of any contaminants.
- Check Paper Orientation: Always double-check that the paper is loaded correctly, with the print side facing up.
Troubleshooting Paper Jams
Despite following the loading instructions, paper jams can still occur. Here’s how to address them:
1. Turn Off the Printer: Before attempting to remove jammed paper, always turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the Jam: The printer’s control panel will usually display an error message indicating the location of the jam.
3. Remove the Jammed Paper: Carefully remove the jammed paper, ensuring you don’t tear or damage it.
4. Check for Obstructions: Inspect the paper path for any foreign objects or debris that could be causing the jam.
5. Restart the Printer: Once the jam is cleared, plug the printer back in, turn it on, and try printing again.
Paper Settings in the Printer Driver
The printer driver allows you to customize settings for paper size, type, and orientation.
1. Open the Printer Driver: Access the printer driver through your computer’s operating system settings or by right-clicking on the printer icon.
2. Select Paper Settings: Navigate to the “Paper” or “Media” tab in the driver’s settings.
3. Configure Settings: Choose the correct paper size, type, and orientation for your printing job.
Beyond the Basics: Maintaining Your Printer
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31 running smoothly.
- Clean the Printer Regularly: Dust and debris can accumulate inside the printer, affecting print quality and causing jams. Use a soft cloth to clean the paper path, rollers, and other internal components.
- Replace the Toner Cartridge: When your toner cartridge is low, replace it with a genuine HP cartridge to ensure optimal print quality and performance.
- Check the Paper Tray: Empty the paper trays regularly and inspect them for any signs of wear or damage.
The Final Print: Keeping Your Printer Running Smoothly
By following these instructions and implementing regular maintenance, you can ensure your HP LaserJet Pro MFP M28-M31 operates efficiently and provides high-quality prints. Remember, proper paper loading is a fundamental aspect of printer operation, leading to a seamless printing experience.
What People Want to Know
1. What if my paper keeps jamming in the same spot?
If paper jams repeatedly in the same location, there might be a physical obstruction in the paper path. Examine the area carefully and remove any foreign objects or debris. If the problem persists, consider contacting HP support for assistance.
2. Can I use different paper types in the standard and multipurpose trays?
Yes, you can use different paper types in each tray. However, ensure the paper settings in the printer driver match the paper loaded in the respective trays.
3. How do I know when to replace the toner cartridge?
The printer will display a warning message on the control panel when the toner cartridge is low. You can also check the toner level in the printer driver settings.
4. What should I do if the printer is not recognizing the paper type?
If the printer is not recognizing the paper type, try cleaning the paper sensors. These sensors are located in the paper path and can become dirty over time. You can clean them with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution.
