CompTIA A+ Core 1 (220-1201)Hardware and Network TroubleshootingMedium
A user reports that their laser printer is producing pages with faint, repeating images of previous prints. The ghosted images appear consistently at intervals down the page. Which component is MOST likely failing?
- AThe imaging drum
- BThe toner cartridge
- CThe transfer roller
- DThe fuser assembly
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The imaging drum
Ghosting, or faint repeating images, in a laser printer is often caused by an issue with the imaging drum (photoreceptor drum). If the drum is not properly cleaned or discharged after each rotation, residual toner can be picked up and transferred to subsequent areas of the page.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A low or faulty toner cartridge would typically result in faded or blank areas, not repeating ghost images of previous prints.
- C. The transfer roller moves toner from the drum to the paper; issues here might result in light print or missing areas, not repeating ghost images.
- D. A failing fuser assembly would typically cause toner not to bond properly, leading to smudging or flaking, not ghosting.
Laser Printer Ghosting
A printing defect where faint, residual images from a previous print appear repeatedly down the page, often caused by a malfunctioning imaging drum.
- Images appear consistently at regular intervals.
- Indicates the drum is not fully erasing previous images.
- Often requires replacement of the drum or toner cartridge (if drum is integrated).
Memory trick: Ghosting on a laser print means the drum didn't clean itself, leaving behind faint memories.