Media alignment mechanism

A media alignment mechanism of a printer having duplex capabilities has two spaced elements defining a predetermined return feed path. Two reference edge segments are disposed between the spaced elements and separated from each other in the direction of advancement of each sheet of media. The spaced elements have non-linear portions extending between the two separated reference edge segments and shaped to break the beam of the sheet of media. This allows a side surface of each sheet of media to simultaneously engage each of the two separated reference edge segments even though the first reference edge segment is at angle to the second reference edge segment to prevent the leading edge of the sheet of media from engaging the entry end of the second reference segment, which provides the desired alignment of the sheet of media for its return to the printer for printing on its second side.