More than just the toner cartridge, it is important to check the organic photoconductive (OPC) drum of a laser printer. When used, the light-sensitive coating on the surface of the drum begins to wear out and print quality quickly deteriorates. Sometimes the OPC drum is located inside a toner cartridge, and this makes replacing toner a considerably expensive prospect.
Color lasers can exasperate the problem as they can have up to four different color toners. Companies like Kyocera have tried to improve laser printer technology by making drums more durable and eliminating all consumables except for toner. Consumables in a laser printer include toners, the OPC Belt or drum, the fuser unit, fuser oil and the waste toner bottle. Check carefully the consumable replacements and durability of any product before purchasing.
