What Is Printer High Altitude Correction?

Printers designed for use at low altitudes may have problems at high altitudes.

High altitude areas have lower atmospheric pressure than regions closer to sea level. The air can also be colder. This can produce an effect in humans called altitude sickness. It can also make printers and other electronic devices malfunction or work differently. Some laser printers offer a high altitude correction mode to ensure proper functioning, even at lower pressure levels.

Laser Printers

Laser printer cartridges contain toner, a powdery substance composed of tiny particles of carbon or other pigment, plus a heat-sensitive binder. The printer binds this powder to the paper using a heat unit. Laser cartridges sealed at sea level or other higher-pressure areas may suffer from leaks when transported to high altitudes. Even fully functional cartridges with no leaks may produce light printing or loose toner on the page, since toner behaves differently at low atmospheric pressure.

High Altitude Correction

Some laser printers offer a high altitude correction mode than improves print quality at altitudes over 1,000 to 2,500 feet. You can turn this feature on by clicking “Start > Printers and Faxes,” then selecting your printer. Right-click on the driver icon for that printer and choose “Properties,” then click the “Printer” tab. Select “High Altitude Correction” and click “OK.” You should experience improved print quality and less toner leakage inside the printer itself.

Inkjet Cartridges

Inkjet printers usually have fewer problems than laser printers at high altitudes, but the cartridges themselves may still leak. Some inkjet cartridges are even slightly pressurized. The difference between the pressure levels inside the cartridge versus those outside may cause ink tanks to leak during transport. Some cartridges leak during shipping or upon opening, while others won't leak until you put them in the printer. Check inkjet tanks carefully for leaks before you install them, since loose ink makes a mess and can damage your printer. Never transport the cartridge inside the printer at a higher altitude.

Considerations

Some printers and cartridges suffer from leakage or problems at high altitudes more than others. If you live in a high altitude area, check the documentation on your printer before buying to ensure you choose a device that will work well in your area. Avoid models that don't offer high altitude correction options. Use only original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, cartridges to reduce the risk of leaks in shipping and installation.

References

• High Altitude Living: Electronics and High Altitude
• Dell: Dell Laser Printer 1100
• Hewlett Packard: HP 14 Cartridges and Printhead Specifications
• Samsung: ML-1630 Series Monochrome Laser Printer Manual