MICR Printer Paper Jams and Misfeeds: 4 Common Problems and How to Fix Them

1. Paper jams and multiple sheets are feeding at the same time because the check paper has not been separated correctly

The best way to separate your blank check stock and reduce MICR printer paper jams is to fan out your stock, and there are several ways to do this. Many people simply hold one end of the stack of paper and flip through the pages, then do the same at the other end.

Another way is to take the stack of check paper, hold it loosely by the short ends with the long edge resting on a surface, fold the ends towards you like an inverted “U”, squeeze the short ends tightly, then straighten the paper again, which does a good job of separating the paper in the middle.

Then, rotate your hands in opposite directions from each other and the parting will extend towards the ends. Then insert the paper into the tray. Following these steps should minimize the chances of paper jams and speed up your daily paper feed operation.

2. Printer errors: message 242.09 or 243.09

If one of these printer errors appears on the screen, it means that the guide on the right side of the paper tray is not tight enough against the check paper in the tray. Hand adjust the fence to make sure it is snug against it. This should resolve problematic printer errors.

3. Paper Jam: Dirty Pickup Tires (Rollers)

Jams occur when the printer tries to remove a check sheet from the tray but cannot. Most of the time, this is because the pick wheels (also known as rollers) that feed the verification material are contaminated with paper dust or toner. Clean the rollers with an alcohol pad, wiping them while rotating.

NOTE: If airing the media as described in #1 above and cleaning the take-up wheels doesn’t resolve the issue, the printer most likely needs service. If this is an issue you are experiencing, please contact your MICR printer manufacturer’s technical support line for assistance on what your next step should be.

4. The paper curls The paper comes out of the printer

This is usually not a problem with the printer, but rather a problem with the moisture content of the check paper. It is important to properly store your blank check stock by keeping it wrapped in its original packaging until ready to use. In humid areas, any unused material should be stored in a plastic container with a lid to prevent additional moisture from coming into contact with the paper.

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