Amazon Basics AU1560XA-cr
AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Paper, CD Credit Card Office Shredder
Model: AU1560XA-cr
Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the shredder and retain it for future reference. This shredder is designed for home and small office use to securely dispose of sensitive documents, CDs, DVDs, and credit cards.
Important Safety Information
- Always keep children and pets away from the shredder.
- Keep loose clothing, jewelry, and long hair away from the shredder opening.
- Do not insert fingers or other body parts into the shredder opening.
- Unplug the shredder before moving, cleaning, or emptying the waste bin.
- Do not operate the shredder if the power cord is damaged.
- Avoid shredding adhesive labels or materials that could stick to the blades.
- Do not spray aerosols or lubricants into the shredder.
- Ensure the shredder is placed on a flat, stable surface.
- Do not exceed the maximum sheet capacity to prevent jams and motor damage.
Parts Identification
Familiarize yourself with the components of your shredder:
- Shredder Head (Top Unit)
- Waste Bin (Bottom Unit)
- Paper Entry Slot
- CD/DVD/Credit Card Entry Slot
- Control Switch (Auto, Off, Reverse, Forward)
- LED Indicators (Bin Full, Door Open, Overload, Overheat, Power On)
- Casters (Wheels)

Figure 1: Front view of the AmazonBasics 15-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder.

Figure 2: Top view of the shredder head showing the control panel and entry slots.
Setup
- Carefully remove the shredder from its packaging.
- Place the waste bin on a flat, stable surface.
- Align the shredder head with the waste bin and gently lower it into place. Ensure it is securely seated.
- Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet. The "Power On" LED indicator should illuminate.
- If desired, attach the casters to the bottom of the waste bin for easier mobility.

Figure 3: The shredder head separated from the pull-out waste bin.
Operating Instructions
Control Switch Settings:
- AUTO: The shredder will automatically start when paper is inserted and stop when shredding is complete. This is the recommended setting for normal operation.
- OFF: The shredder is powered off.
- REV (Reverse): Reverses the shredding mechanism to clear paper jams.
- FWD (Forward): Manually activates the shredder in the forward direction.
Shredding Paper:
- Set the control switch to "AUTO".
- Insert up to 15 sheets of 20-pound bond paper into the paper entry slot (8.7-inch wide). Small staples and paper clips do not need to be removed.
- The shredder will automatically start and shred the paper into 3/16 by 1-7/32 inch (4.7 by 31 mm) cross-cut pieces.
- Allow the shredder to complete the cycle before inserting more paper.

Figure 4: Shredding paper documents.
Shredding CDs, DVDs, and Credit Cards:
- Set the control switch to "AUTO".
- Insert one CD, DVD, or credit card at a time into the dedicated slot.
- The shredder will automatically start and destroy the media.

Figure 5: Shredding a credit card.

Figure 6: Shredding a CD or DVD.
Run Time and Thermal Protection:
The shredder has a continuous run time of 20 minutes, followed by a 45-minute cool-down period. If the shredder operates continuously beyond its maximum run time, it will automatically shut off to protect the motor from overheating. Allow the shredder to cool down before resuming operation.
Maintenance
Emptying the Waste Bin:
When the "Bin Full" LED indicator illuminates, or when the waste bin is visibly full, it needs to be emptied. Unplug the shredder, pull out the waste bin, empty the shredded material, and then reinsert the bin securely. The shredder will not operate if the bin is not properly closed.
Cleaning:
- Always unplug the shredder before cleaning.
- Wipe the exterior of the shredder with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Periodically oil the shredder blades with shredder oil to maintain optimal performance and extend the life of the shredder. Follow the instructions provided with your shredder oil.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shredder does not turn on. | Not plugged in; shredder head not properly seated; "Door Open" LED illuminated. | Ensure power cord is securely plugged in; re-seat the shredder head onto the waste bin. |
| Shredder stops during operation. | Overheat protection activated; "Overheat" LED illuminated. | Allow the shredder to cool down for 45 minutes. |
| Paper jam. | Overfed with too many sheets; "Overload" LED illuminated. | Set control switch to "REV" to clear the jam. If unsuccessful, unplug, remove excess paper, and try again. Do not force paper. |
| "Bin Full" LED illuminated. | Waste bin is full. | Empty the waste bin and reinsert it securely. |
Specifications
- Model: AU1560XA-cr
- Shred Type: Cross-Cut
- Shred Size: 3/16 x 1-7/32 inches (4.7 x 31 mm)
- Security Level: P-4
- Sheet Capacity: 15 sheets (20 lb bond paper)
- Media Shredding: CDs, DVDs, Credit Cards (one at a time)
- Paper Entry Width: 8.7 inches
- Waste Bin Capacity: 6 gallons
- Run Time: 20 minutes On / 45 minutes Off
- Product Dimensions: 23.25 x 25.25 x 38.25 inches
- Item Weight: 31.9 pounds
Warranty and Support
This AmazonBasics shredder is backed by an AmazonBasics 1-year limited warranty. For warranty claims, troubleshooting assistance, or further support, please refer to the official AmazonBasics support channels or visit the Amazon product page for this model.
Note: As part of AmazonBasics quality inspections, every shredder is tested before shipping, which may result in some paper shreds being present in the bin upon arrival. This is normal and does not indicate a used product.
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