Digital BW, The Print

I know I'm on the trailing edge but it is all I can afford at this 
time.Can anyone be so kind as to tell me the purpose of the Media 
Type panel on the 3000. How does it relate to the Media Type settings 
in the software? Does it have anything to do with the way in which 
the paper is transported? What happens if the settings do not match 
on the printer and in the software? Please advise. I really need to 
get a handle on this. A good thorough explanation would be 
appreciated. Does anyone have a great way to clean the transport to 
get rid of any paper remnants in the 3000. 

			Thanks,

                                     John Harvey