The Tamerica 210PB comb binding machine is a manual comb binder that offers a comprehensive range of features – including fully disengageable dies, self-sharpening dies, and a 20-page punching capacity – at an affordable price. Designed for use in schools, offices, and other multi-user settings, the 210PB is easy to use and requires minimal user adjustments. Below is a step-by-step guide for binding books with the Tamerica 210PB comb binder:
- If this is the first time that the machine is being used, it will need to be assembled. To assemble the 210PB, insert the handle onto the master shaft (located on the right side of the machine) so that it is in an upright position. Thread the knob set through the handle and into the master shaft, then tighten to secure the handle.
- Adjust the side margin guide based on the sheet size of your document.
- Disengage pins as necessary to eliminate any partially-punched holes. The alignment guide on the feed table of the machine indicates the placement of the holes. To disengage a pin, simply pull the corresponding metal arm straight back from the machine until it stops.
- Using the included Binding Guage & Diameter Guide, measure the thickness of your book to determine the appropriate depth margin setting. Adjust the depth margin to 1, 2, 3, or 4 using the binding depth knob.
- Insert up to 20 sheets (based on 20 lb. paper) into the punching throat. If you are using thicker paper and/or cover stock, you will need to reduce the number of pages in order to assure a clean punch.
- Pull the binding handle forward to punch. Return the handle to its upright position and pull the papers out of the punching throat.
- Repeat punching your document(s) in sets until all pages have been punched.
- Place the plastic binding comb onto the built-in comb opener so that the solid portion of the spine is behind the metal fingers and the open side of the rings is facing up. Note: Using the comb size specified by the Binding Guage & Diameter Guide will help to ensure a professional finish to your bound document.
- Turn the binder stop (located on the left side of the machine) toward the front of the machine until it stops.
- Push the binding arm backward until the comb has been opened enough to insert your pages. Hold the binding arm in position and rotate the binder stop toward the back of the machine until it stops. This will prevent you from over-opening the combs and increase the efficiency of your binding process.
- Insert the pages of your document onto the comb with the front cover facing down, making sure that all of the prongs have been aligned with the holes in your sheets. If working with a particularly thick book, you may find it easier to insert the pages onto the comb in smaller sets.
- Return the binding handle to the upright position, then lift the book straight up and off of the machine to complete the binding process.