Abstract: A system and method of providing a periodic trajectory scan path for a laser beam across a photoconductive surface in a laser printer. A preferred embodiment of the periodic trajectory for a system with a two-axis deflector includes a multiple-frequency omega wave trajectory for providing a substantially rectangular grid of available dot locations for selective laser beam pulsing. As such, a plurality of generally linear rows of dots are completed in a single scan pass of the laser beam across the surface. The periodic trajectory is provided by deflecting the laser beam with an optical beam deflector, such as an electro-optic deflector, placed between the laser and the rotating polygon scanning mirror. A preferred embodiment of the beam deflector includes a folded optical path.

Abstract: A system and method of deflecting a laser beam in a laser printer for providing enhanced resolution and reduced banding effects. Specifically, to enhance resolution, the laser beam is borrowed (deflected) from a white space area adjacent an image to double resolution at the edges of the image. Similarly, banding is reduced by deflecting the beam to compensate for drum rotational and translational errors. The beam is deflected using an electro-optic modulator placed between the laser diode and the scanning mirror. Encoders detect drum rotational errors and motion between the optics unit and the drum to provide a closed loop feedback system for reducing banding.