Removing a paper jam typically involves carefully locating and gently pulling the stuck paper out of the printer's paper path.
When your printer indicates a paper jam, follow these steps to clear it safely and effectively:
Steps to Clear a Printer Paper Jam
It's crucial to handle a paper jam with care to avoid damaging internal components of the printer.
- Turn Off the Printer:
- Always begin by turning off the printer and unplugging it from the power outlet. This is a critical safety step to prevent electric shock and avoid damaging the printer while moving internal parts.
- Locate the Jammed Paper:
- Open all accessible covers and trays on your printer. This might include the front cover, back cover, output tray, and input tray areas.
- According to the provided reference, you should follow that paper path from feed paper cassette to the output. Tray.
- Carefully inspect each section of the paper path where paper travels, looking for crumpled or stuck paper.
- Manually Remove the Paper:
- The reference states: If this stock paper is visible manually remove.
- Once you locate the jammed paper, gently pull it out. Try to pull in the direction the paper normally travels through the printer.
- Be gentle: Avoid excessive force, which can tear the paper and leave small pieces inside the printer.
- Pull straight if possible.
- If the paper tears, make sure to find and remove all the torn pieces. Even small scraps can cause future jams.
- Check All Potential Jam Locations:
- Don't assume the jam is only in one spot. Check the input tray, the main printing area, the output tray, the duplexing unit (if your printer has one), and any other access panels. Use a flashlight if needed to see into dark areas.
- Close All Covers:
- Ensure all covers and access panels are securely closed.
- Turn the Printer Back On:
- Plug the printer back in and turn it on. It should cycle and hopefully clear the jam message. You may want to print a test page to confirm.
Important Considerations
- Never use sharp objects like scissors or knives to remove jammed paper, as this can scratch or damage internal parts like the drum or fuser.
- Refer to your printer's manual: Different printer models have specific instructions and access points for clearing jams. Your manual is the best resource for your specific device.
- If the paper is stuck firmly, don't yank it hard. Sometimes opening different access points or slightly rotating gears (as instructed by a manual) can help loosen the paper.
- Check the paper type: Ensure you are using paper within your printer's specifications (weight, size, type) to help prevent future jams.
Following these steps, including tracing the paper path and manually removing visible paper as mentioned in the reference, should help you successfully clear most common paper jams.
