MICR Printer Paper Jams and Feed Errors – 4 Common Issues and How to Fix Them
1. Paper jams and multiple sheets are being fed at a time because the check stock hasn’t been properly separated
The best way to separate blank check stock and reduce MICR printer paper jams is to fan it out, and there are different ways to do it. 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 stock, hold it loosely by the short ends with the long edge resting on a surface, bend the ends toward you like an upside down “U”, pinch the short ends tightly, then straighten out the paper again, which does a pretty good job of separating the paper in the middle.
Then, twist your hands in opposite directions from each other and it will roll the separation out toward the ends. Then insert the paper into the tray. Following these steps should minimize the chances for paper jams and streamline daily paper-feeding operation.
2. Printer Errors: Message 242.09 or 243.09
If one of these printer errors appears on the display, it means the right side guide in the paper tray is not set tightly enough against the check stock in the tray. Manually adjust the guide to ensure it is set tightly against it. This should resolve the problematic printer errors.
3. Paper Misfeed – Dirty Pick Tires (Rollers)
Misfeeds happen when the printer tries to pull a sheet of check stock from the tray but can’t. Most of the time, it’s because the pick tires (also known as rollers) that feed the check stock are contaminated with paper dust or toner. Clean the rollers with an alcohol pad by wiping them off as you turn them.
NOTE: If fanning the stock as described in #1 above and cleaning the pick tires does not solve the problem, the printer most likely needs to be serviced. If this is an issue you are experiencing, contact your MICR printer manufacturer’s technical support line for help on what your next step should be.
4. Paper Curls Paper Exits Printer
This is usually not a printer issue, but a problem with the moisture content of the check stock paper. It’s important to properly store your blank check stock by keeping it wrapped in its original packaging until it’s ready to be used. In humid areas, any unused stock should be stored in a plastic container with a lid to keep extra moisture from getting into the paper.