A client calls to report that the documents from their high-volume laser printer have started showing faded print on the right side, while the left side is printing normally. The printer was recently serviced and had its toner cartridge replaced. Before considering a hardware replacement, which of the following should be investigated FIRST to address the faded-print issue?
Replace the fuser unit.
Reinstall or update the printer drivers on the client PC.
Run the printer's standard maintenance/cleaning cycle again.
Inspect and reseat the toner cartridge, checking for uneven toner distribution or physical defects.
Uneven or side-specific fading on a laser-printed page often indicates that toner is not being distributed evenly inside the cartridge or that the cartridge is not seated correctly. Manufacturer guidance recommends removing the cartridge, gently rocking it to redistribute toner, and verifying that it locks firmly into place; improper seating or a damaged cartridge can cause one-sided fading. Low-toner or fuser problems usually affect the whole page or cause smearing rather than a consistent fade on only one edge, and driver reinstallation rarely corrects a mechanical print-quality defect.
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