Leaving traces on the side of the paper

[INDRO_DR]

I am using Hp laserjet m104a while I was printing my project the ink was going to the drum and after the printing it's leaving lines of ink the two edges of the paper which is looking dirty for presentation.

[A_Gayathri]

Hi @INDRO_DR ,

Welcome to The HP Support Community.  

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

I understand the issue you're experiencing with your HP LaserJet Pro M104a printer leaving traces of ink on the edges of the paper is typically caused by one of the following:

Possible Causes and Solutions:

Dirty Drum or Toner Cartridge
Residual toner might be stuck on the drum or the toner cartridge, causing streaks on the edges of the paper.

• Solution: Remove the toner cartridge and gently shake it to evenly distribute the toner. Clean the drum and cartridge using a dry, lint-free cloth. Be careful not to touch the drum surface with your fingers.

Worn Drum or Toner Cartridge
Over time, the drum or cartridge may wear out, leading to print quality issues.

• Solution: Replace the toner cartridge if it’s nearing the end of its life or if the drum shows visible wear or damage. Use a genuine HP cartridge for best results.

Paper Quality
Low-quality or damp paper can cause smudges or streaks.

• Solution: Ensure you're using high-quality, dry, and compatible paper that meets the printer's specifications.

Fuser Unit Issues
If the fuser is not properly bonding the toner to the paper, it may leave streaks.

• Solution: Check the fuser unit for signs of wear or damage. If the fuser is faulty, it might need cleaning or replacement.

Printer Cleaning Mode
Your printer may have accumulated excess toner or debris inside.

• Solution: Run the printer’s internal cleaning cycle (if available). Refer to your printer's manual for instructions.

Environment
Dust or humidity in the environment can affect print quality.

• Solution: Ensure the printer is in a clean, dry area away from excessive humidity or dust.

Firmware or Driver Issues
Incorrect settings or outdated drivers can also impact print quality.

• Solution: Update your printer’s firmware and drivers. Download the latest versions from the HP Support website.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Inspect and Clean the Toner Cartridge:

• Turn off the printer and remove the toner cartridge.
• Check for toner leaks or buildup on the cartridge.
• Clean the cartridge and the printer's interior with a soft, dry cloth.

Check and Replace Consumables:

• Inspect the drum and fuser unit for signs of wear.
• Replace them if necessary.

Perform a Test Print:

• Print a test page to check if the issue persists. If the streaks are gone, the cleaning process resolves the issue.

I hope this helps. 

Take care and have a good day.

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