220-1101 Question 346
Single answerMaintenance: Replace paper, clean heating element, and remove debrisA technician is called to service a laser printer that frequently jams and leaves light gray smudges on printed pages. The user reports hearing a slight scraping sound when paper feeds through the printer. After powering down the printer and allowing it to cool, the technician opens the access panels and finds small scraps of paper near the paper path. Which action should the technician take FIRST to address the most likely cause of the problem?
- A
Remove the debris from the paper path and inspect the printer for any remaining torn paper
- B
Replace the toner cartridge because gray smudges usually indicate a failing cartridge
- C
Clean the heating element inside the fuser assembly with a damp cloth
- D
Load a fresh ream of paper into the tray to rule out moisture in the paper stock
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
This question focuses on practical printer maintenance in an A+ Core 1 context. When a laser printer experiences jams, scraping noises, and visible debris, the technician should first clear the paper path and remove any torn paper. Small scraps left behind after a jam commonly cause repeated feeding problems and can also lead to secondary print-quality issues. After debris is removed, additional maintenance may include checking paper condition, replacing paper correctly in the tray, and inspecting the fuser area if smudging continues. If fuser cleaning is required, technicians should use the manufacturer-recommended procedure because the heating element is sensitive and can remain hot after shutdown. Best practice is to address the most obvious physical obstruction first, then continue troubleshooting in a logical order based on service documentation and safety procedures.
- A. Correct.
Correct. Paper scraps and other debris in the paper path are a common cause of repeated jams, scraping noises, and print defects. The technician has already observed torn paper near the feed path, making removal of debris and inspection for remaining fragments the most appropriate first step. This aligns with standard printer maintenance procedures: clear jams completely before replacing consumables or cleaning other components.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Although toner problems can cause print-quality issues, the scenario includes repeated jams, scraping during paper movement, and visible paper scraps in the paper path. Those symptoms point more directly to a physical obstruction than to a toner cartridge failure. Replacing toner first would not address the likely root cause.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. The fuser's heating element can affect toner adhesion and may contribute to smudging, but it is not the first action in this case. Also, technicians should follow manufacturer guidance when servicing the fuser because it becomes very hot and improper cleaning methods, such as using a damp cloth directly on sensitive components, can damage the printer or create safety issues.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Damp or poor-quality paper can contribute to jams and print issues, so this is a plausible troubleshooting step. However, the technician has already found torn paper debris in the paper path, which is a more immediate and likely cause. Replacing paper before clearing the obstruction would not be the best first action.