Tech Tip: Managing Static forImproved Image Quality andMaximum Printer PerformanceBy: Regional Supply

Static on printers can cause a number of issues thatcompromise print quality, particularly in the dry wintermonths.Understanding the underlying causes of static anddeveloping techniques for managing static’s effects canhelp ensure consistent print quality and productivity.

Static can be caused by a number of sources.

Causes of static include frictionfrom the media traveling across theplaten, from pressure where themedia moves between the pinchand grit rollers, and fromdetachment, when the media isunwound from its core.

Static causes issuesto a printer and itsprints by attractingsmaller ink mistsatellite drops,causing them todeviate from thenormal fall pattern.

Static can be caused by a number of sources.

Causes of static include friction from the media travelingacross the platen, from pressure where the media movesbetween the pinch and grit rollers, and from detachment,when the media is unwound from its core.

How to Prevent and Control Printer Static

• An optimal print environment has an ambient temperature of 20 to32C (68 to 90F). If the machine is used at an ambient temperature lowerthan 20C (68F), then depending on the type or width of the media,wrinkling or temperature-caused unevenness may occur.• Even when not in use, the environment should remain at a constanttemperature and relative humidity. Temperatures of 5 to 40C (41 to104F) are ideal and a relative humidity of 20 to 80% (with nocondensation) will ensure performance.• Temperatures that are too high may degrade the ink and causemalfunction. Temperatures that are too low may cause the ink to freezeand damage the heads.

• Printers should be properly grounded and usemedia that is not prone to static.• Additionally, static suppression hardware isavailable, including options from Takk Industriesand Meech.

How to Prevent and Control Printer Static

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