Re: laser vs inkjet printers (HP4P paper-curling)

[Stephen Schiller <smschill -at- SOFTART -dot- COM>]

I also switched from the HP Deskjet 500 to the HP LaserJet 4P and
encountered the paper curling-problem. To solve the problem, I store my
paper in a TupperWare container with a few of those little moisture absobing
packets that accompany electronic devices. When I need uncurled printouts, I
quickly load the dry paper in the printer and print. After 5 or 10 minutes,
the dry paper will absorb moisture, but I can usually get wrinkle-free
copiesbefore this happens.

You can obtain these moisture absorbers by calling a local computer store
and asking them to hold you some. Call first though, because stores usually
throw the packets away.

Good luck,
Stephen Schiller
smschill -at- softart -dot- com

I used an HP Deskjet 500 for several years before switching to a Laser Jet 4P
>last year. I agree completely with your assessment. I found the Deskjet to be
>an almost flawless printer, despite rigorous use. As I recall I had one
>problem with it in 5 years of use, and the HP dealer fixed it for free (3
>year warantee) and returned it in one day.

>The only complaint I have about the Laser Jet 4P is that it curls paper, and
>this is especially pronounced in the summer when the weather is humid. I
>complained shortly after buying the printer, but they assured me that this
>was a paper problem. The real problem I suspect, since I don't recall this
>with the old 3 series, is that because of the smaller size, the paper has to
>pass closer to the heat source inside the printer, which forces it to curl on
>the way out. Other than this minor aggravation, however, I have used the 4P
>for almost a year without a problem. 600 DPI print quality for under a $1000
>is hard to beat.

>Ron