Canon printers offer a wide range of features and options that cater to various printing needs. One essential feature is the rear tray, also known as the rear feed or print manual feed tray. This tray allows you to print on different paper types and sizes without having to load paper in the main paper cassette. In this detailed guide, we will explore how to make the most of your Canon printer’s rear tray, covering everything from loading paper to selecting the correct settings for optimal results.
Understanding the Rear Tray
- Location of the Rear Tray: The rear tray is typically located at the back of the Canon printer. It is designed for specialty media, such as photo paper, envelopes, cardstock, and custom-sized paper.
- Compatible Paper Types: The rear tray can accommodate a variety of paper types, including photo paper, envelopes, legal-sized paper, and custom-sized media. It’s an excellent choice for producing high-quality prints on specialty paper.
How To Load Paper into the Rear Tray?
1. Preparing the Paper: Before loading paper into the rear tray, make sure it is clean and not wrinkled. Ensure the paper size matches the settings in your printer software.
2. Accessing the Rear Tray: Open the rear tray by gently pulling it down. You may need to push a lever or button to release it, depending on your Canon printer model.
3. Paper Orientation: Place the paper in the rear tray with the print side facing up. Adjust the paper guides to fit the paper size and ensure it is properly aligned.
4. Loading Envelopes: When loading envelopes, ensure they are placed with the flap side down and the top edge facing the printer’s front.
How To Select the Correct Settings From Rear Tray on a Canon Printer
1. Printer Driver Settings: Access your printer driver settings on your computer. Under the Paper Source or Media Type options, choose Rear Tray or Manual Feed.
2. Paper Size and Type: Set the paper size and type in the printer driver to match what you’ve loaded in the rear tray. This ensures your printer knows how to handle the paper correctly.
3. Quality Settings: Adjust print quality settings, such as print mode (economy, standard, high quality), to achieve the desired output.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Paper Jams: To prevent paper jams, make sure the paper is loaded correctly and not exceeding the tray’s capacity. Remove any wrinkled or damaged sheets.
2. Paper Misalignment: If your printout shows misalignment issues, check the paper guides to ensure they are snug against the paper. Adjust them as needed.
3. Ink Smudging: To avoid ink smudging on specialty paper, ensure that you are using the correct media type settings and that the ink is drying properly.
How To Clean and Maintain Rear Tray on a Canon Printer
1. Regular Cleaning: Clean the rear tray and paper guides periodically to remove dust and debris. Use a lint-free cloth or a soft brush to prevent paper feeding issues.
2. Firmware Updates: Keep your Canon printer’s firmware up to date. Canon often releases updates that can improve paper handling and overall performance.
FAQ: Printing from the Rear Tray on a Canon Printer
What is the rear tray on a Canon printer?
The rear tray is a specialized paper input source located at the back of your Canon printer. It is designed for handling various types of paper, including photo paper, envelopes, cardstock, and custom-sized media.
Why would I use the rear tray?
You should use the rear tray when you want to print on specialty media that cannot be loaded in the main paper cassette. The rear tray allows you to produce high-quality prints on different paper types and sizes without the need to swap out paper in the main tray.
How do I load paper into the rear tray?
To load paper into the rear tray, follow these steps:
- Make sure the paper is clean and not wrinkled.
- Access the rear tray by gently pulling it down or following your printer’s specific release mechanism.
- Place the paper with the print side facing up in the tray.
- Adjust the paper guides to fit the paper size and ensure proper alignment.
What types of paper are compatible with the rear tray?
The rear tray can accommodate a variety of paper types, including photo paper, envelopes, legal-sized paper, and custom-sized media. It is ideal for specialty media that requires special handling.
How do I select the rear tray as the paper source in the printer settings?
In your printer driver settings on your computer:
- Look for the Paper Source or Media Type option.
- Choose “Rear Tray” or “Manual Feed” as the paper source.
- Set the paper size and type to match what you’ve loaded in the rear tray.
How can I prevent paper jams when using the rear tray?
To prevent paper jams:
- Ensure the paper is loaded correctly and is within the tray’s capacity.
- Avoid using wrinkled or damaged sheets.
- Clean the rear tray and paper guides regularly to remove dust and debris.
What if my printouts show misalignment issues when using the rear tray?
Check the paper guides in the rear tray to ensure they are snug against the paper, properly aligning it. Adjust the guides as needed for better alignment.
How can I prevent ink smudging when printing on specialty paper from the rear tray?
To avoid ink smudging, make sure you:
- Use the correct media type settings in your printer driver.
- Allow the printed pages to dry before handling them.
Are there any specific maintenance tasks for the rear tray?
Regularly clean the rear tray and paper guides using a lint-free cloth or a soft brush to remove dust and debris. Keeping your printer clean and well-maintained is essential for optimal performance.
Can I use the rear tray on all Canon printer models?
While many Canon printers come equipped with a rear tray, the availability and features of the rear tray may vary depending on the model. Always consult your printer’s user manual to confirm its specific capabilities.
How do I update the firmware on my Canon printer?
To update your Canon printer’s firmware, visit the Canon website, search for your printer model, and follow the provided instructions for downloading and installing the latest firmware updates.
By following these frequently asked questions and their respective answers, you’ll be well-informed about how to effectively utilize the rear tray on your Canon printer for various printing needs. Remember that specific instructions may vary depending on your printer model, so consulting your printer’s user manual is always a good practice for model-specific details.
Conclusion
Printing from the rear tray on your Canon printer opens up a world of possibilities, allowing you to produce high-quality prints on various paper types and sizes. By understanding how to load paper correctly, selecting the appropriate settings, and troubleshooting common issues, you can make the most of this versatile feature. Remember to consult your printer’s user manual for model-specific instructions and recommendations, and keep your Canon printer in top-notch condition by following regular cleaning and maintenance procedures. With these insights, you’ll be well-equipped to harness the full potential of your Canon printer’s rear tray for all your printing needs.
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