CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)HardwareHard
A user reports that their laser printer is producing pages with vertical black lines or streaks on every printout. The lines are consistent in position and appear on all pages. Which of the following components is the most likely cause of this issue?
- APrimary charge roller (PCR)
- BTransfer roller
- CImaging drum
- DFuser assembly
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Imaging drum
Consistent vertical black lines or streaks on a laser printer are typically caused by a scratch or defect on the imaging drum (photoreceptive drum). This defect will pick up toner and transfer it to the paper in the same location on every page.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A primary charge roller (PCR) issue could cause light or dark spots evenly distributed, but a consistent vertical line usually points to a drum defect.
- B. A transfer roller issue might lead to faded images or uneven toner transfer, but less commonly sharp vertical lines.
- D. A faulty fuser assembly usually causes toner to smudge or not adhere, not consistent vertical lines.
Laser Printer Imaging Drum
The core component in a laser printer that uses electrostatic charges to attract toner in the pattern of the image to be printed.
- It's a photosensitive component, often a cylinder.
- Defects like scratches on the drum directly translate to repeating marks on printouts.
- Often integrated into the toner cartridge or a separate drum unit.
Memory trick: For print defects, remember 'D.T.F.C.' - Drum, Toner, Fuser, Corona.