1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Bostitch Office Vertical Electric Pencil Sharpener, model EPS5V-Blue. This sharpener features a vertical design and a powerful, stall-free motor with thermal overload protection. It utilizes HHC cutter technology for extended cutter life and includes a Sharp Stop mechanism to prevent over-sharpening. The unit also has a motor shutoff feature for safe cleaning when the shaving tray is removed.
Image 1: Bostitch EPS5V-Blue Electric Pencil Sharpener highlighting key features like 4x cut life, power meter, SharpStop, and space saver design.
2. Safety Instructions
- Always ensure the sharpener is placed on a stable, flat surface during use.
- Do not operate the sharpener if the shavings tray is removed or improperly seated, as the safety switch will prevent motor activation.
- Keep fingers and foreign objects away from the sharpening aperture.
- Unplug the sharpener from the power outlet before cleaning or when not in use.
- Avoid using excessive force when inserting pencils, as this can damage the motor or cutter.
- This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge, unless they have been given supervision or instruction concerning use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety.
3. Setup
- Unpack the pencil sharpener and remove all packaging materials.
- Place the sharpener on a stable, level surface in your desired workspace.
- Ensure the shavings tray is securely in place.
- Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.
Image 2: The Bostitch EPS5V-Blue sharpener positioned on a desk, ready for use.
4. Operating Instructions
- Hold the pencil firmly and insert it into the sharpening hole on top of the unit.
- Apply gentle downward pressure. The motor will automatically start.
- Continue holding the pencil in place until the Sharp Stop mechanism automatically shuts off the motor, indicating a perfectly sharpened point.
- Remove the pencil.
Image 3: A hand demonstrating the correct way to insert a pencil into the sharpener.
Image 4: A close-up view of a pencil sharpened to a precise point by the Sharp Stop mechanism.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Emptying the Shavings Tray
- Unplug the sharpener from the electrical outlet.
- Gently pull the shavings tray out from the bottom front of the unit. The motor will automatically shut off if the tray is removed during operation.
- Empty the pencil shavings into a waste bin.
- Slide the shavings tray back into the unit until it clicks securely into place.
Image 5: A hand demonstrating the removal of the shavings tray for emptying.
5.2 Cleaning
- Wipe the exterior of the sharpener with a soft, dry cloth.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Do not immerse the sharpener in water or any other liquid.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpener does not turn on. | Not plugged in; Power outlet not working; Shavings tray not properly inserted. | Check power cord connection; Test outlet with another device; Ensure shavings tray is fully seated. |
| Pencil does not sharpen or sharpens unevenly. | Dull cutter blades; Pencil lead broken inside; Excessive pressure applied. | Contact customer support for cutter replacement; Remove broken lead carefully; Apply gentle pressure only. |
| Motor stalls during sharpening. | Excessive pressure; Overheating (thermal overload protection activated). | Reduce pressure; Allow unit to cool down for several minutes before resuming use. |
7. Specifications
- Model Number: EPS5V-Blue
- Brand: Bostitch
- Manufacturer: Amax Inc.
- Color: Blue
- Material: Plastic
- Power Source: Electric
- Item Weight: 13.1 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 3.62 x 4.44 x 5.5 inches
- Specific Uses: Graphite Pencil, Color Pencil
- Features: HHC Cutter Technology, Sharp Stop, Thermal Overload Protection, Safety Switch.
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information or technical support, please refer to the product packaging or visit the official Bostitch website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
