1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Fellowes AutoMax 550C Cross-Cut Paper Shredder. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the shredder and retain it for future reference.
The Fellowes AutoMax 550C is a heavy-duty commercial paper shredder designed for office use, offering both automatic and manual feed capabilities. It shreds documents into 5/32" x 1 1/2" cross-cut particles, ensuring enhanced security for sensitive information.
Image 1.1: The Fellowes AutoMax 550C Cross-Cut Paper Shredder.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including Styrene, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer. For more information, go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
Always follow basic safety precautions when using electrical appliances to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons.
- Keep hands, hair, and loose clothing away from the shredder's paper entry.
- Do not insert fingers or other body parts into the shredder opening.
- Keep children and pets away from the shredder at all times.
- Unplug the shredder when not in use or before cleaning, moving, or emptying the waste bin.
- Do not operate the shredder with a damaged power cord or plug.
- Do not attempt to shred materials other than those specified in this manual.
3. Setup
Follow these steps to set up your shredder for first use:
- Unpack: Carefully remove the shredder from its packaging.
- Position: Place the shredder on a flat, stable surface. Ensure adequate space around the unit for ventilation and access to the waste bin.
- Connect Power: Plug the power cord into a grounded electrical outlet.
- Waste Bin: Ensure the 22-gallon pull-out waste bin is correctly inserted and closed. The shredder will not operate if the bin is open or improperly seated.
4. Operating Instructions
The AutoMax 550C offers both automatic and manual shredding modes.
4.1 Automatic Feed Operation
The AccuFeed System™ allows for hands-free shredding of up to 550 sheets.
- Open the automatic feed tray cover.
- Stack up to 550 sheets of paper neatly into the automatic feed tray. Ensure the paper is aligned.
- Close the automatic feed tray cover. The shredder will automatically begin shredding.
- The shredder can process paper clips and staples in automatic mode.
Image 4.1: Loading paper into the automatic feed tray for continuous shredding.
4.2 Manual Feed Operation
For smaller jobs or specific items, use the manual feed slot.
- Insert up to 14 sheets of paper into the manual feed slot.
- The shredder will detect the paper and begin shredding.
- The manual feed slot can also shred credit cards, CDs/DVDs, and junk mail.
Image 4.2: Comparison of items shreddable by automatic and manual feed.
4.3 Smart Lock Feature
The Smart Lock feature allows you to secure the shredder during automatic shredding, preventing unauthorized access to documents in the feed tray.
Video 4.3: Demonstration of the Fellowes 550C Paper Shredder, including the Smart Lock feature.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your shredder.
5.1 Oiling the Cutters
It is recommended to oil the shredder cutters regularly, especially after emptying the waste bin or after prolonged use. Use Fellowes shredder oil for best results.
5.2 Emptying the Waste Bin
The shredder features a spacious 22-gallon pull-out waste bin. An LED indicator will alert you when the bin is full. To empty:
- Pull out the waste bin from the front of the shredder.
- Dispose of the shredded material.
- Slide the waste bin back into the shredder until it clicks into place.
Image 5.1: The spacious pull-out bin with LED bin-full indicator.
6. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your shredder.
6.1 Paper Jams
The AutoMax 550C is equipped with an Auto Reverse feature to prevent jams. If a jam occurs:
- The shredder will automatically stop and reverse the paper.
- If the jam persists, press the reverse button to clear the paper.
- Reduce the amount of paper being fed if jams occur frequently.
Image 6.1: The Auto Reverse feature helps prevent paper jams.
6.2 Shredder Not Operating
- Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into a working outlet.
- Check that the waste bin is fully inserted and closed.
- Verify that the shredder is not in Sleep Mode. The shredder will automatically shut off until needed next to save energy.
- Allow the shredder to cool down if it has been running continuously for an extended period.
6.3 Excessive Noise
The SilentShred™ feature ensures quiet operation. If the shredder becomes excessively noisy:
- Ensure the cutters are properly oiled.
- Check for any foreign objects in the paper entry.
Image 6.2: The SilentShred feature minimizes distractions in shared workspaces.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 4963001 |
| Cut Type | Cross Cut (5/32" x 1 1/2" particles) |
| Auto Feed Capacity | 550 sheets |
| Manual Feed Capacity | 14 sheets |
| Waste Bin Capacity | 22 gallons |
| Shreds Materials | Paper, staples, paper clips, credit cards, CDs/DVDs, junk mail |
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
| Special Features | Automatic Start-Stop, Energy Save (Sleep Mode), Quiet Operation (SilentShred), Auto Reverse |
| Item Dimensions (D x W x H) | 22.75"D x 15.38"W x 35.06"H |
| Item Weight | 74.1 pounds |
| Enclosure Material | Metal |
8. Warranty
The Fellowes AutoMax 550C shredder is backed by a 2-year product and service warranty. Additionally, the cutters are covered by a 20-year warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9. Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to inquire about replacement parts, please visit the official Fellowes website or contact their customer service department. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or on the product packaging.
