Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation of your Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder. Please read these instructions carefully before initial use and retain for future reference. This shredder is designed for personal and home office use to destroy sensitive documents, CDs, and credit cards.
Image: Amazon Basics 8-Sheet Cross-Cut Shredder, showcasing its compact black design with a clear window on the waste bin.
Important Safety Information
WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in fire, electric shock, or injury.
- Keep children and pets away from the shredder.
- Keep loose clothing, jewelry, hair, and hands away from the paper entry slot.
- Do not store or spray aerosol products in or near the shredder.
- Do not shred metallic credit cards, wet paper, or adhesive labels.
- Always unplug the shredder when moving, cleaning, or emptying the waste bin.
- Do not operate the shredder if the power cord is damaged.
- Avoid placing the shredder near heat sources or in direct sunlight.
- Ensure the shredder is placed on a stable, level surface.
Setup
- Unpack: Carefully remove the shredder from its packaging.
- Placement: Place the shredder on a flat, stable surface. Ensure the waste bin is correctly seated in the base.
- Power Connection: Plug the power cord into a standard electrical outlet.
- Initial Check: Ensure the power switch is in the 'OFF' position before plugging in.
Operating Instructions
Control Switch and LED Indicators
Image: Close-up of the shredder's control panel, illustrating the 4-mode control switch and LED lights.
- FWD (Forward): Manually feeds paper through the shredder.
- AUTO (Automatic): The shredder automatically starts when paper is inserted and stops when shredding is complete. This is the recommended setting for normal operation.
- OFF: Turns the shredder off. Always set to OFF when not in use or during maintenance.
- REV (Reverse): Reverses the shredding mechanism to clear paper jams.
LED Indicators:
- Green Light (Power): Indicates the shredder is powered on and ready for operation.
- Red Light (Overheat/Overload): Illuminates to indicate the shredder is overheating or overloaded. Allow the unit to cool down or reduce the amount of material being shredded.
Image: Top panel detail showing LED indicators, 4-mode switch, and capacity icons.
Shredding Documents
Image: Demonstrates shredding of up to 8 sheets of paper and a single credit card.
- Set the control switch to 'AUTO'.
- Insert up to 8 sheets of 75 gsm paper into the paper entry slot. The shredder will start automatically.
- For credit cards or CDs, insert one item at a time into the dedicated slot.
- The shredder has a 3-minute continuous run time. After this, it requires a 30-minute cool-down period to prevent overheating. The red LED will indicate if the unit is too hot.
- The shredder can destroy staples and small paper clips, but it is recommended to remove them to prolong blade life. Do not shred metallic credit cards.
Image: A person feeding paper into the shredder, demonstrating typical use.
Maintenance
- Emptying the Waste Bin: Regularly check and empty the 14-liter waste bin to prevent paper jams and ensure optimal performance. Unplug the shredder before removing the bin.
- Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the shredder with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Lubrication: To maintain shredder performance and prolong blade life, lubricate the cutting blades periodically. Use shredder lubricant sheets or apply shredder oil directly to the paper entry slot while running the shredder in 'FWD' mode with a few sheets of paper. Follow the lubricant manufacturer's instructions.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Shredder does not turn on. | Not plugged in; power switch in 'OFF' position; waste bin not correctly seated. | Ensure power cord is securely plugged in; set switch to 'AUTO'; ensure waste bin is fully inserted. |
| Shredder stops during operation (Red LED on). | Overheating; overloaded. | Allow the shredder to cool down for 30 minutes; reduce the number of sheets being fed. |
| Paper jam. | Too much paper inserted; paper not fed straight. | Set switch to 'REV' to clear the jam. If unsuccessful, unplug, carefully remove paper, then plug in and try 'REV' again. Lubricate blades if jams are frequent. |
| Shredder runs continuously in 'AUTO' mode. | Sensor obstructed. | Unplug the shredder and clean the paper entry sensor (usually a small clear window or lens). |
Specifications
Image: Illustrates the P-4 security level, showing paper shredded into 0.2 x 0.7 inch particles.
- Brand: Amazon Basics
- Model Number: C276-A
- Color: Black
- Shred Type: Cross-Cut (Security Level P-4, 0.2 x 0.7 inches / 5 x 18 mm particles)
- Sheet Capacity: 8 sheets (75 gsm paper)
- Shreds: Paper, CDs, Credit Cards (one at a time)
- Waste Bin Capacity: 14 Liters
- Continuous Run Time: 3 minutes
- Cool-down Time: 30 minutes
- Power Source: Electric Cord
- Noise Level: 68 dB
- Dimensions (W x D x H): 18.3 cm x 32.5 cm x 35.1 cm (7.2 in x 12.8 in x 13.8 in)
Image: Detailed diagram illustrating the width, depth, and height of the shredder.
Warranty and Support
This Amazon Basics product is covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty information provided with your purchase for specific terms and conditions. For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Amazon Basics customer service through the Amazon website or your purchase platform.
