CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)Hardware and Network TroubleshootingMedium
A client reports that their laser printer is producing pages with a faint, repeating image of a previous printout. This 'ghosting' effect appears uniformly across the entire page. What is the MOST likely cause of this issue?
- AIncorrect paper type settings.
- BFuser assembly malfunction.
- CWorn-out drum unit.
- DLow toner level.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Fuser assembly malfunction.
Ghosting, where a previous image is faintly repeated, often indicates that the fuser assembly is not properly fusing the toner to the paper or not cleaning the drum sufficiently. An overheated or faulty fuser can cause toner to transfer partially and then reappear.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Incorrect paper type settings might cause toner flaking or jams, but not typically ghosting.
- C. A worn-out drum unit usually causes streaks, lines, or spots, not a uniform ghosting of a previous image.
- D. Low toner typically results in faded print or blank areas, not ghosting.
Laser Printer Ghosting
A printing defect where a faint, repeating image of a previously printed page or section appears on subsequent pages.
- Often caused by a faulty fuser assembly or issues with residual toner.
- Can also be related to the drum unit not being fully cleaned.
- Appears as a lighter, unintended copy of previous content.
Memory trick: The fuser is responsible for making sure no ghosts get on the page.