The GBC CombBind C800 is an efficient and user-friendly binding machine designed to create professional-looking documents with ease. Whether you're assembling reports, presentations, or manuals, mastering its operation will allow you to produce neatly bound materials quickly and effectively.
Getting Started with Your GBC CombBind C800
Understanding the basics of comb binding and the key components of your C800 will ensure a smooth binding process.
Understanding Comb Binding
Comb binding, also known as plastic comb binding, uses a cylindrical plastic spine with multiple rings that are opened, pages inserted, and then closed to hold documents together. This method is popular for its affordability, durability, and the ability to add or remove pages later.
Essential Components of the GBC CombBind C800
Before you begin, familiarize yourself with these parts:
- Punch Lever: Used to create holes in your document pages.
- Comb Opener Lever: Controls the opening and closing of the binding comb.
- Comb Opener/Holder: Where the binding comb is placed and opened.
- Margin Guide: Adjusts the distance of the punched holes from the edge of the paper.
- Waste Tray: Collects paper punch-outs; should be emptied regularly.
- Comb Size Guide: Helps you select the correct comb diameter based on your document's thickness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Binding a Document
Follow these steps to bind your documents using the GBC CombBind C800:
1. Prepare Your Document
- Assemble your document: Gather all your pages, including any front and back covers, and arrange them in the correct order. Ensure all pages are facing the right way up and are neatly aligned.
2. Determine Your Comb Size
- Use the size guide to determine your spine: The C800 features a built-in comb size guide. Stack your prepared document pages and covers into the guide. It will indicate the appropriate comb diameter required for your document's thickness. Selecting the correct comb size is crucial for a snug, professional finish.
- Tip: If you're between sizes, always opt for the slightly larger comb to ensure all pages fit comfortably and can turn freely.
3. Punch Your Pages
- Adjust the Margin Guide: Slide the margin guide to the desired position. This controls how far from the edge of the paper the holes will be punched. A slightly wider margin is often preferred for thicker documents.
- Insert Pages: Place a manageable stack of pages (refer to your machine's capacity, typically 15-20 sheets for 20lb paper) into the punching slot. Ensure the edges are flush against the margin guide and the backstop.
- Punch: Firmly pull the punch lever down to create the holes.
- Repeat: Continue punching your document in small batches until all pages, including covers, have been perforated.
4. Load the Binding Comb
- Place the spine on the comb opener: Position your chosen binding comb onto the comb opener mechanism.
- Make sure to put the teeth on the top: Ensure the teeth of the comb are pointing upwards and facing towards the front of the machine.
- Open the Comb: Gently pull the comb opener lever towards you. This will spread the teeth of the comb apart, preparing it to receive your punched pages.
5. Assemble Your Document onto the Comb
- With the comb open, carefully slide the punched holes of your document pages onto the open comb teeth. Start with the back cover (face down), then the body pages, and finally the front cover (face up). This ensures the spine looks clean when the document is closed. Ensure all pages are properly threaded onto the comb.
6. Close the Comb
- Once all pages are on the comb, slowly push the comb opener lever back to its original position. This will close the comb's teeth, securing all your pages in place.
- Remove your beautifully bound document from the machine.
Tips for Optimal Binding Results
- Test Punch: Always perform a test punch on a piece of scrap paper to ensure your margin and punching depth settings are correct before punching your final document.
- Don't Overload: Adhere to the machine's maximum punching capacity. Trying to punch too many pages at once can damage the punch dies and lead to uneven holes.
- Empty Waste Tray: Regularly check and empty the waste tray to prevent paper jams and maintain consistent punching quality.
- Cleanliness: Keep your machine clean, especially the punching dies, to ensure smooth operation and longevity.
Maintenance and Care
To ensure your GBC CombBind C800 continues to perform reliably:
- Empty the waste tray: Do this frequently, especially after large binding jobs, to prevent clogging.
- Wipe down: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the machine. Avoid using harsh chemicals.
- Store properly: When not in use, store the machine in a clean, dry place.
