Abstract: A system for holding recording media onto a media support surface, comprises, a media support element including a media support surface and a second side, substantially opposing the media support surface. A plurality of vacuum ports pass from the media support surface to the second side and communicate with a device for drawing air through each of the plurality of vacuum ports to hold the recording media against said media support surface. A sequencing manifold connected between the device for drawing air and the plurality of vacuum ports selectively draws air through a portion of the plurality of vacuum ports over a region substantially matching the size of the recording media.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for orienting a sheet of recording media on a support surface for recording an image onto the recording media in a predetermined location. A registration device, which includes two contacting points for contacting an edge of the media, establishes a registration axis having a know orientation and location with respect to the support surface and with respect to the image to be recorded. A media loading device advances the media across the support surface and orients an edge of the media against the two contacting points of the registration device. At least one of the two contacting points of the registration device is movable with respect to the support surface for adjusting the separation between the two contacting points in accordance with a width of the recording media. The image may also be located at a known location with respect to another perpendicular edge of the recording media.