1. Important Safety Instructions
Please read all instructions carefully before using your Aurora AU1680MZ shredder. Keep this manual for future reference.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets: The shredder has sharp blades and moving parts that can cause injury.
- Unplug when not in use: Always disconnect the shredder from the power outlet before moving, cleaning, or emptying the waste bin.
- Avoid loose clothing and jewelry: Keep ties, necklaces, hair, and loose clothing away from the paper entry slot.
- Do not shred metal objects: Avoid staples larger than standard size, paper clips, or any other hard metal objects as they can damage the blades. Small paper clips are acceptable.
- Indoor use only: This shredder is designed for indoor use in a dry environment. Do not expose to water or moisture.
- Do not spray aerosols: Never spray any flammable products or lubricants into or around the shredder.
- Do not open casing: There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Opening the casing voids the warranty and may expose you to electrical hazards.
- Use appropriate power source: Ensure the power outlet matches the voltage requirements specified on the shredder.
2. Product Overview
The Aurora AU1680MZ is a high-security micro-cut shredder designed for efficient destruction of sensitive documents, CDs/DVDs, and credit cards. It features a 16-sheet capacity, a 60-minute continuous run time, and a 7.0-gallon pullout waste basket for easy disposal.
Key Features:
- High Security Micro-Cut: Shreds documents into tiny 5/32 by 15/32 inch (4 x 12 mm) particles, meeting security level P-4.
- 16-Sheet Capacity: Efficiently shreds up to 16 sheets of paper at once.
- Multi-Media Shredding: Destroys CDs, DVDs, and credit cards through a dedicated slot.
- Extended Run Time: Operates continuously for up to 60 minutes.
- Anti-Jam System: Features auto-reverse functionality to clear paper jams.
- Quiet Operation: Designed for ultra-quiet performance.
- 7.0-Gallon Pullout Basket: Large capacity waste bin with LED indicator lights for Standby, Overheat, Bin-full, Overload, and Door open status.
- Casters: Equipped with casters for easy mobility.
Product Components:

Figure 2.1: Front view of the Aurora AU1680MZ shredder, showing its sleek white design and waste bin window.

Figure 2.2: Top view of the shredder head, highlighting the separate entry slots for paper and for CDs/DVDs/credit cards, along with control icons.

Figure 2.3: The shredder with its 7-gallon pullout waste basket extended, demonstrating ease of access for emptying.

Figure 2.4: A visual representation of the micro-cut shred size (5/32" x 15/32"), illustrating the high security level P-4 output.
3. Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the shredder from its packaging. Retain packaging materials for future transport or storage.
- Placement: Position the shredder on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the casters are locked if you do not intend to move it frequently.
- Waste Basket: Ensure the 7.0-gallon pullout waste basket is correctly inserted into the shredder cabinet. The shredder will not operate if the basket is not properly seated.
- Power Connection: Plug the power cord into a standard 120V AC outlet.
- Initial Check: Turn the control switch to the 'AUTO' position. The shredder should be in standby mode, indicated by a specific LED light (refer to Section 4.3 for LED indicators).
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Control Switch Functions:
- AUTO (On): The shredder is in standby mode. When paper or media is inserted, the shredder will automatically start and stop once shredding is complete.
- OFF: The shredder is powered off.
- REV (Reverse): Activates the reverse function to clear paper jams. Hold the switch in this position until the jam is cleared.
4.2 Shredding Documents and Media:
- Paper Shredding: Insert up to 16 sheets of paper (8.5 x 11 inches, 20 lb bond) into the paper entry slot. The shredder will automatically start. Do not exceed the maximum sheet capacity to prevent jams.
- CD/DVD/Credit Card Shredding: Insert one CD, DVD, or credit card at a time into the dedicated media entry slot. The shredder will automatically start.
- Continuous Operation: The shredder is designed for a 60-minute continuous run time. After this period, it may require a cool-down period to prevent overheating.
4.3 LED Indicator Lights:
The Aurora AU1680MZ features LED indicators to provide operational status:
- Standby: Indicates the shredder is powered on and ready for use.
- Overheat: Illuminates when the shredder has exceeded its maximum continuous run time and needs to cool down. Allow the shredder to rest for approximately 30-45 minutes.
- Bin-full: Indicates the waste basket is full and needs to be emptied. The shredder will not operate until the bin is emptied and properly reinserted.
- Overload: Lights up if too much paper is inserted, causing a potential jam. Use the 'REV' function to clear the overload.
- Door Open: Indicates the pullout waste basket is not fully closed or properly seated. The shredder will not operate until the basket is correctly closed.
5. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the life of your shredder.
- Emptying the Waste Bin: When the 'Bin-full' LED illuminates, or when the bin appears full through the viewing window, pull out the waste basket and empty its contents. Reinsert the basket firmly until the 'Door Open' indicator turns off.
- Oiling the Shredder Blades: For micro-cut shredders, regular oiling is essential. Apply shredder oil (specifically designed for paper shredders) across the paper entry slot. Run a few sheets of paper through the shredder immediately after oiling to distribute the oil evenly. Oil the shredder after every 30 minutes of accumulated shredding or at least twice a month.
- Cleaning the Exterior: Unplug the shredder. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the exterior surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your shredder, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shredder does not operate. |
|
|
| Paper jam. |
|
|
| 'Overheat' LED is on. | Continuous operation exceeded 60 minutes. | Turn off the shredder and allow it to cool down for 30-45 minutes. |
| 'Bin-full' LED is on. | Waste basket is full. | Empty the waste basket and reinsert it properly. |
| 'Overload' LED is on. | Too many sheets inserted. | Switch to 'REV' (Reverse) to clear the excess paper. Reduce the number of sheets for future shredding. |
7. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AU1680MZ |
| Shred Type | Micro Cut |
| Shred Size | 5/32" x 15/32" (4 x 12 mm) |
| Security Level | P-4 |
| Sheet Capacity | 16 sheets (20 lb bond paper) |
| Media Shredding | CDs, DVDs, Credit Cards, Small Paper Clips |
| Continuous Run Time | 60 minutes |
| Cool Down Time | 30-45 minutes (approx.) |
| Waste Bin Capacity | 7.0 Gallons |
| Throat Width | 8.7 inches |
| Product Dimensions (W x L x H) | 11.02 x 15.16 x 23.39 inches |
| Item Weight | 36.2 pounds |
| Color | White |
| Manufacturer | Aurora |
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the official Aurora website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
Online Support: Visit the official Aurora website for FAQs, product registration, and contact options.
Contact Information: Refer to the documentation included with your product or the manufacturer's website for the most current contact details.





