Printer Paper Weight

A printer is one of the most common and useful devices used in conjunction with a personal computer. Almost every PC user has it and this is not surprising - in our time a large number of various documents on paper is required, and it is much more convenient to read any information from a sheet, not from the screen. But the operation of the printer, although it is in itself a fairly simple process, has several nuances that not every user knows about. For example, which paper is best to buy and what does the density parameter mean? You will learn about all this in this article.

What is paper weight?

It is important to understand that not only the visual result of printing, but also the longevity of the printer depends on the quality of the paper. One of the main parameters of choice is density. What is it and how to determine it?

Density in simple words is the thickness of a sheet of paper. A lot depends on this parameter - the operability of the equipment, the appearance of the resulting document, and even the shelf life of the sheets themselves. In addition, paper of different density is suitable for different purposes - for example, you should not print an abstract on sheets that are too thick, more suitable for business cards or any kind of poster.

Reference! On plain paper packaging, you can see density data that looks something like this - 60g / m2. This means that 60 grams per square meter in this sheet, because the density is measured in grams per square meter.

There are many types of paper and they differ, including in density. Let's consider several options.

What is the paper weight?

Each type of paper is intended for a different print. That is why it is important to know which sheets are suitable for a particular printer.

So paper can be:

1. Offset. This is used to print a variety of office supplies (diaries, notebooks) or other important text documents. Her indicator is 60-160m / m2. Such sheets are almost universal, and another advantage is the rather low price and characteristics - it is convenient to write and draw on them.
2. Coated. Its sheets are covered with a special coated layer, which allows you to achieve the most vivid image. This effect is due to the fact that the paint is not absorbed. Applications and other documents are printed on it, and glossy options are often chosen for printing advertisements or any periodicals. Density - from 70 to 300g / m2.
3. Designer. The most dense, which often also has additional visual "decorations". Its density is from 100 to 300g / m2, and it is used for business cards, booklets and other similar printed products.

What density paper is needed for the printer

For ordinary users, the question often arises as to which option is needed for their home printer.

First of all, you need to decide what exactly you will print most often, as well as study the characteristics of the printer. If it is suitable for printing on thick sheets, then business cards and booklets can be easily printed at home, and if not, then contact a special printing house.

A traditional and universal option will be plain A4 paper with a density of about 70-90g / m2, which is used in most home printers and does not harm the technical condition of the device. Less dense sheets should not be purchased, despite their low cost.

The consequences can be extremely deplorable - thin sheets of a printer can capture several pieces at once, and this is not only a waste and reduced usability, but also harm to its condition. In addition, the visual result is also unlikely to please - the paint will be absorbed and smeared, which will lead to a large number of stains and blots.

Now you know how to choose the right density paper for your printer and why you need so many different types. Knowing the specifications of the printer, you can experiment and try several types of paper within its capabilities.