subject: An Assessment Of The Pro-bind 2000 Thermal Binding Machine [print this page] Thermal binding is fast, easy, and produces documents that look absolutely great. You can also create a whole lot of books in a short time if you use a thermal binder such at the Pro-Bind 2000. It is a professional-grade thermal binding machine that can bind hundreds of books in just one hour. Here is what good and not so good about the Pro-Bind 2000.
What's good:
* The 2000 is perfect if you need to bind lengthy documents. This machine can bind documents ranging thickness from 1/16" to 2". A document that's two inches thick can contain up to 400 pages. You documents can also be up to 14.75" long
* Operating this device couldn't be easier. If you're producing a hardcover document, hit the "Hardcover" button. If you're making a softcover book, press the "Softcover" button instead.
* This machine binds incredibly fast due to it being a thermal device. A softcover book can be bound in 30 seconds while a hardcover will take a minute. When the book has been bound, the machine will beep and turn itself off, thus saving power.
* You can bind more than one document at once with the 2000. Depending on the thickness of your documents, it's feasible to bind up to eight of them at a time. Since it only takes 60 seconds to bind a hardcover book, it's completely possible to bind up to 480 of them in a single hour. That makes this machine perfect for high-volume output.
* The heating plate is on a 15-degree angle. While this may not seem like a big deal, it helps keep the paper together better so your documents are bound more securely.
* The 2000 has high-quality, all-metal construction so you can use it for a long time. The circuit board is located away from the heating unit thus reducing the risk of electrical problems and fire.
* You can use store-bought thermal covers with the 2000 (such as GBC Therm-a-Bind covers), as well as your own custom-made ones.
* Selecting the right cover is easy because there's a cover selector guide located on the back of the machine.
* Finally, this product comes with a one-year warranty.
What's not so good:
* To finish off your hardcover books, you'll need to crimp the spine. Doing this requires access to the Pro-Bind Hardback Cover Crimper, which is sold separately.
* This isn't the most attractive binding machine in the world. If looks are important to you, a device such as the stylish Fellowes Helios 30 or 60 thermal binder would be a better choice.
Despite its rather bland appearance and the fact that you'll need to purchase additional equipment if working with hardcovers, the Pro-Bind 2000 is a great choice if you need a thermal binder that works quickly. It can bind an unbelievable number of books in a short period of time and it's very easy to use. If you need professional-looking books in a hurry, the 2000 is what you need.
