subject: GBC Shredmaster 5500S Strip Cut Office Shredder Review [print this page] Offices with high shredding needs generally utilize a central, shared shredder rather than multiple scattered machines. The GBC Shredmaster 5500S is specifically built to handle the needs of ten or more users in a busy office. Offering fast shred speeds with decent capacities, you can be sure this machine will get the job done. Here is a closer look at the details of the 5500S.
Strengths:
Use is mainly run by a multi-functional control panel with optical signals that keep the user informed of the machine's status. Choices include Power On, Bag Full, Overload, Door Ajar, Bag Full Shut Off, Auto Stop On Jam, and Auto On/Off. Each status will cause the device to attempt to resolve the issue, whether by turning off so the user can replace the shred bag or by automatically reversing to clear the blades of a jam.
The powerful motor is conveniently rated for continuous duty. This means that you won't encounter the frequent cool down periods often needed by smaller machines. Without this feature, the 5500S wouldn't be able withstand the continual, all day shredding needs of many larger offices.
A wide 15 inch funneled throat helps to guide items in to prevent paper jams. Up to 22 sheets can enter at once and are shred as fast as 40 feet per minute. Items can include standard staples and paperclips as well as credit cards and CDs. Narrow, " strips remain and offer a level 2 security rating. This is perfect for the disposal of low risk general office documents.
The unreadable strips fall into a large 42 gallon shred bin. The generous size of the container allows for fewer bag changes. A reasonable amount of waste is collected while still being manageable to remove and replace the shred bag.
GBC provides one of the best warranties in the business, offering lifetime coverage on the cutters. The rest of the machine carries a three year warranty on parts and labor, which includes convenient on-site service.
Weaknesses:
The thin strips created only provide a low level 2 security rating. This is perfectly acceptable for generic office shredding of old memos and work orders. But any confidential information should go through a cross cutting device, such as the Shredmaster 5550X.
Taking in 22 sheets at once is a decent amount but may not be enough for extremely high volumes of shredding. While this is partially offset by the rapid shred speed of 40 feet per minute, businesses with massive amounts of paper to shred will prefer a higher capacity device.
Weighing in around 125 pounds, this isn't a light machine. Even so, there are casters on the bottom for easier mobility in case you need to move it around the office.
Overall, the GBC 5500S is an ideal system for the high shredding needs of any busy office. Offering a continuous duty motor to keep up with heavy duty usage, this device would work especially well as a departmental shredder for use by many in a high traffic area. We think the GBC Shredmaster 5500S is an excellent choice for your next low security central office shredder.
