Method and system of sensing an output level of an output stack of print media in an image forming apparatus

A method of determining an output level of an output stack of print media in an image forming apparatus, said method comprising the steps of:

• transporting the print media, one print medium at a time, to the output stack;
• providing a sensor positioned in association with the output stack;
• sensing when the output level of the output stack has reached a near full level using said sensor;
• identifying at least one physical characteristic of the print media which affects the stacking of the print media, said at least one physical characteristic including at least one of an average thickness of each print medium, a curling factor of each print medium, a weight of each print medium, and a texture of each print medium;
• counting a number of the print media transported to the output stack after said near full level is sensed using an electrical processing circuit;
• and
• determining when the output level of the output stack has reached a full level without using said sensor, dependent upon each of said at least one physical characteristic and said counted number of the print media.