Laser printer maintenance outcome: After servicing a laser printer, you notice dirty or smudged output. Which immediate action is most likely to clear residual toner and restore clean prints?

Introduction / Context:
Laser printers use a toner/OPC drum/transfer/fuser process. After servicing, loose toner or contamination on the paper path can cause dirty prints. A simple clearing action often resolves residual smudging without invasive steps.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Printer has just been opened or serviced (for example, toner/drum replacement, cleaning, jam removal).
• Output shows light backgrounding, specks, or faint streaks indicative of stray toner.
• No specific component failure has been diagnosed yet.

Concept / Approach:

Residual toner in the developer area, transfer path, or fuser exit can deposit onto paper. Feeding several blank sheets allows the paper path to wipe and carry away loose toner. If smudging persists, deeper cleaning or component replacement (drum/fuser) may be needed, but the least-invasive remedy should be attempted first.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Many vendors recommend printing blank pages after cartridge installation. If a new cartridge immediately resolves the issue, the original cartridge likely leaked or was contaminated.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Clean the developer tank / laser diode: advanced steps not typically required first; the laser assembly rarely causes “dirty” output.
• Reset the printer: does not remove toner from the paper path.
• None of the above: incorrect because running blank pages is a standard clearing technique.

Common Pitfalls:

Touching the OPC drum surface with fingers, using abrasive cloths inside the printer, or neglecting to check the transfer roller. Always follow vendor cleaning procedures.

Final Answer:

Run several blank pages