Avery label misalignment on OfficeJet Pro 6978

[bshyman]

I am trying to print Avery 22817 round labels on my OfficeJet Pro 6978. I have selected glossy photo paper. The labels are misaligned; the printed area is not centered, and the misalignment varies from label to label. Realigning the printer head doesn't help. What can I do? Is this particular paper not supported by the 6978?

[Dragon-Fur]

@bshyman 

Not sure.

There are reviews about the product that indicates that alignment and smudging are sometimes an issue.  This is perhaps an indicator of product weakness or the comments might be a result of printer model limitations or the settings used on that printer.  Doesn't matter - judge for yourself.

The package indicates this is a "laserjet / inkjet" product.  Personally, I dislike trying to make paper swing (work) "both ways".  Laserjet printing binds the ink to paper with heat - inkjet printing does not use heat.  Two entirely different methodologies - this is the reason one normally purchases laser paper for laser printers and inkjet paper for inkjet printers.  Like I said - personal bias.

That said, glossy photo paper is not likely to work though it does make a bit of logical sense to choose it - label Avery 22817 round labels paper is glossy (22807 is the "matte).

If you can do so, select instead a different "glossy" media (kind of paper).

For example, 

(select) Media type = HP Brochure - glossy (180gsm)

or if the label paper is light-weight, perhaps

Media type = HP Presentation - Glossy (120gsm)

Personal Opinion

Finally, printer aside, Avery - at some point in the past - has yanked the PC downloaded Design & Print software.  A shame, that.  Everything "Avery" is now more complicated. more prone to mistakes and misalignment, and more likely to be an irritating experience.  Sigh.

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[bshyman]

Thank you, @Dragon-Fur, for your input. I understand the potential issue with paper that tries to "swing both ways," but that's what I bought. 

I did try your suggesition to select another "glossy" paper option. The only other option on my printer, HP Glossy Brochure or Professional Paper, yielded the same misalignment.

I am prone to think it's a combination of my printer, plus the Avery paper I selected. Clearly not a match made in heaven.

On to Plan B, whatever that might be. Maybe I'll try the Matte option.

Whatever the outcome, this project with much potential has turned into a major aggrevation.

Thanks again for weighing in.

[Dragon-Fur]

@bshyman 

You are welcome.

I would guess it is the labels in this case.

The printer has only so much it can do - and the options you tried are the best I can think of at the moment.

If I find any magic, I will post back.

Thank you for participating in our HP Community.

We are a world community of volunteers dedicated to supporting HP technology