Lexmark 5400 - Manual (Page 97)

Check print cartridges If the document still does not have the print quality you want, follow these steps:
1 Align the print cartridges. For more information, see “Aligning print cartridges” on
page 89.
If print quality has not improved, continue to step 2.
2 Clean the print cartridge nozzles. For more information, see “Cleaning the print cartridge
nozzles” on page 89.
If print quality has not improved, continue to step 3.
3 Remove and reinsert the print cartridges. For more information, see “Removing a used
print cartridge” on page 87 and “Installing print cartridges” on page 87.
If print quality has not improved, continue to step 4.
4 Wipe the print nozzles and contacts. For more information, see “Wiping the print cartridge
nozzles and contacts” on page 90.
If print quality is still not satisfactory, replace the print cartridges. For more information, see
“Ordering supplies” on page 91.
Poor text and graphic quality
• Blank pages
• Dark print
• Faded print
• Incorrect colors
• Light and dark bands in print
• Skewed lines
• Smudges
• Streaks
• White lines in print
Check ink Check the ink levels, and install new print cartridges if necessary.
Review steps to
improve print quality See “Improving print quality” on page 89.
Remove sheets as they
are printed To avoid ink smudging when you are working with the following media, remove each sheet as
it exits, and allow it to dry:
• Documents with graphics or images
• Photo paper
• Heavyweight matte or glossy paper
• Transparencies
• Labels
• Envelopes
• Iron-on transfers
Note: Transparencies may take up to 15 minutes to dry.
Use a different brand of
paper Each paper brand accepts ink differently and prints with color variations. If you are printing
photos or other high-quality images, for best results use Lexmark Premium Photo Paper or
Lexmark Photo Paper.
Check paper condition Use only new, unwrinkled paper.
Software may not be
installed correctly For more information, see “Software may not be installed correctly” on page 95.
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