Powis Parker Fastback 8x User manual

FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 1
I SAFETY & COMFORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
II INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
III FIRST TIME SETUP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
IV SUPPLIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
V BINDING A DOCUMENT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
A. Lx-Strips™and Lx–Comp Strips™Binding . . . . . 7
B. Halfback™ Binding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
C. Perfectback®Binding and Padding . . . . . . . . . . . 9
D. Hardcover™Binding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
E. For L-Strip Users . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
VI TIPS FOR BEST BINDING . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
VII USER MENU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
VIII TROUBLESHOOTING. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
IX SPECIFICATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
X FCC NOTICE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
XI WARRANTY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
CONTENIDO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
SOMMAIRE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
INHALTSVERZEICHNIS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Information for Your Reference:
Serial Number:
Purchase Date:
Dealer Name:
Dealer Phone:
C O N T E N T S
C O N T E N I D O
S O M M A I R E
I N H A L T S V E R Z E I C H N I S

2 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 3
SAFETY & COMFORT
I
Please read through this manual before setting up and using
your binder.
• Connect all equipment to properly grounded power
outlets.
• Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord. Do not
locate the binder where persons will step on the cord.
• Place the binder on a flat surface. The binder may not
operate properly if it is tilted or at an angle.
• Do not block or cover the opening on top of the binder.
• Do not push any objects into the opening of the binder.
• Use only the type of power source indicated on the
binder’s label on the rear of the machine.
• Do not use a damaged or frayed power cord.
• Unplug the binder before cleaning, and clean it with a
damp cloth only.
• Do not spill food or liquid on the binder.
• Except as specifically explained in this guide, do not
attempt to service the binder yourself.
• Keep your binder away from radiators and heat sources.
• Do not block cooling vents on the bottom; Avoid placing
papers underneath your machine.
• Use of an extension cord with this machine is not
recommended or authorized. Users should check building
codes and insurance requirements if an extension cord is
to be used. Make sure that the total of the ampere ratings
of the products plugged into the extension cord does not
exceed the extension cord ampere rating, and that the
total amperage of all products plugged into the wall outlet
does not exceed the outlet rating.
!
C A U T I O N : Heaters are hot. Do not touch
heater surfaces during binding. Do not touch
heaters immediately after removing book.
C A U T I O N : Do not place fingers and other
foreign objects into binding cavity during binding
process. Binding cavity closes during binding
process and may pinch.
READY TO BIND
!

2 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 3
SAFETY & COMFORT (continued)
I
In recent years, medical attention on occupational injuries has identified
common, seemingly harmless activities as potential causes of a wide range
of problems collectively known as Repetitive Stress Injuries or Cumulative
Trauma Disorders. It is now recognized that any repetitive motion may
contribute to these health problems. Depending on how it is used, the
prolonged or repetitive use of almost any machine might have a potential
for discomfort or injury. As a user of this binder, you might also be at risk.
The most commonly accepted causes of this type of disorder are
repeated, forceful actions, usually in an awkward position or posture,
without sufficient rest to allow the body to recover. These repetitive
actions may cause nerves, tendons, ligaments, and other soft body parts
to become irritated and inflamed.
By paying attention to the way you perform your work, and do other
activities, you can identify the behaviors that could put you at risk.
The precautions outlined below are examples you can take to help
reduce the likelihood of developing these problems and work more
comfortably with your new binder. Keep in mind, however, that these
are only suggestions. Comfort is personal and only you may be able to
judge what works best for you.
• You may find that your body will be most comfortable and relaxed
with the binder placed directly in front of you. The binder and your
supplies should be within easy reach —avoid excessive stretching.
• The binder may be used in either a standing or seated position.
If you are standing, make sure that the work surface height that the
binder is on does not require you to bend over in a way that would
strain your back or arms.
• If you are seated, adjust the height of your chair to your table so
your body is naturally aligned and make sure you have adequate
legroom. Stay relaxed and relatively upright. Don’t force yourself
into an uncomfortable position.
• Do not bend your wrists unnaturally during use.
• Don’t stay in one position for too long. Try changing hands and
varying your posture.
• Take breaks. Frequent short breaks are probably better than a few
long ones.
Many factors go into creating a comfortable workspace, including proper
placement and adjustment of furniture and equipment. A thorough work
site analysis by a qualified expert is important in order to reduce the risk
of repetitive motion injuries. If you experience pain, throbbing, aching,
tingling, stiffness, a burning sensation, swelling, numbness, or weakness in
your wrists, hands, arms or legs, see your physician immediately.
DO NOT IGNORE THESE WARNING SIGNS. Even if symptoms occur
when you are not using the binder, they can be associated with painful and
sometimes permanently disabling injuries or disorders of the nerves, muscles,
tendons, or other parts of the body. These symptoms could mean that
you are developing a repetitive stress injury that requires prompt medical
attention. For more detailed information, consult your doctor.
!

4 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 5
INTRODUCTION
II
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Model 8x
binder! Like all our Fastback. binders, this machine was carefully
assembled and tested prior to packing. You will find it fast and
easy to use.
Once the machine is turned on, it only takes about 40 seconds
to bind a document. With the push of just one button, you can
bind strong, professional-grade documents.
You can bind documents from 10 sheets all the way up to 250
sheets. You can also remove pages from and add pages to
a previously bound document by using the Edit feature.
You can even watch the binding mechanism in action through
the transparent cover!
A BIND button
B MENU button
C OPEN button
D Illuminated display
E Instruction card
F Tamping surface
G Binding recess
H Book support fences
I Rear panel (power switch, cord
connection, serial number)
READYTOBIND
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
F I G U R E 1

4 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 5
FIRST TIME SETUP
III
A. What’s Included Inside the Box
Fastback. Model 8x Binder
Accessory box, which contains:
User’s manual
Power cord
3 Book support fences
Starter kit of covers and Lx-Strips™
Lx-Strip color fan image sheet
If any of the preceding items are damaged or missing,
contact your dealer immediately.
B. Setting Up
Place the binder on a flat, unobstructed work surface. Insert the three
book support fences into the slots on the top of the binder. The side
with the word FRONT should be facing you (see figure 2).
C. Plugging In
Before plugging in the Fastback binder, be sure the power switch is off by
depressing the “O” side of the power switch. Plug the power cord into
the outlet on the back of the machine.
D. Ready To Go
Turn the power switch on by depressing the “1” side of the power
switch. In a few moments the display will read “READY TO BIND”.
Now the machine is ready to bind.
HINT: The Model 8x Binder consumes relatively little power when it is
not binding. However, if the machine will not be used for several hours,
save power by turning it off.
FRONT
READY TO BIND
C A U T I O N : Heaters are hot. Do not touch
heater surfaces during binding. Do not touch
heaters immediately after removing book.
C A U T I O N : Do not place fingers and other
foreign objects into binding cavity during binding
process. Binding cavity closes during binding
process and may pinch.
!
F I G U R E 2

6 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 7
BINDING STYLES
IV
Your Fastback. binder lets you choose between four different
binding styles. Each style uses its own type of Lx-Strip™ or
cover supplies. The four types of supplies are:
A. Lx-Strip™ or Lx-Comp™ (figure 3)
Lx-Strip™ refers to our patented binding strip specifically
designed for the Model 8x binder.
The Lx-Strip is available in two widths:
Narrow and Medium, and a variety of lengths, including 11”
and A4. Custom lengths can also be provided. Ask your dealer
for details. For the strongest and most professional looking
bind, Powis Parker covers should be used. Covers are available
in many sizes. Styles include glossy composition covers, clear
plastic covers, and paper covers with or without front windows.
B. Halfback™ covers (figure 4)
With Halfback™ covers, the front cover and spine are
combined to give a more seamless look. You can add graphics
to the Halfback spine and cover by creating your design on a
computer and printing it on an inkjet printer. A separate back
cover is used to complete your document.
• NOTE: Do not print Halfback covers on laser printers.
C. Perfectback® Lx-Strip™ (figure 5)
Perfectback® LF (Lay Flat), and PS (Pressure Sensitive) Lx-Strips
allow you to produce perfect-bound documents, one copy
at a time. Create paperback books and notepads on your
desktop with no muss or fuss. See Section V-C, pages
9-11.
D. Fastback® Hardcover™ (figure 6)
Now you can produce professional-quality hard cover books at
your desktop in a matter of minutes. See Section V-D, page 12.
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
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F I G U R E 3
F I G U R E 4
F I G U R E 5
F I G U R E 6
X Covers
Y Pages
Z Lx-Strip™
X Pages
Y Back cover
Z Halfback™ cover
X Book block
Y Perfectback® Lx-Strip™
Z Wraparound cover
V Book block
W Endleaves
X Lx-Strip™
Y Headband
Z Fastback®
Hardcover™

6 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 7
BINDING A DOCUMENT
WITH Lx-STRIPS™, or
Lx-COMP STRIPS™
V-A
1. If necessary, switch to Lx-STRIP or Lx-COMP STRIP mode (see
Section VII, page 15). If the machine is already in Lx-STRIP mode,
the display reads “READY TO BIND” …”Lx-STRIP”.
• NOTE: If you have selected the Lx-COMP STRIP mode, the
display reads “READY TO BIND... Lx–COMP STRIP”. Follow the
procedure below using Lx-Comp Strips.
• If you are using ,the original L-Strips (not Lx-Strips), please refer to
section V-D on page 13. Model 8x is compatible with narrow and
medium L-strips only.
2. Select your Lx-Strip according to your document thickness:
10-125 sheets= Narrow Lx-Strip
125-250 sheets = Medium Lx-Strip
(This may vary slightly depending on the paper and cover thickness.)
HINT: If you are not sure which strip width to use, simply place
your document in the binding recess and push the BIND button.
The correct width will be shown on the display.
3. Fold the strip to a 90° angle (figure 7a). Make sure the adhesive side
faces inward.
4. Place the Lx-Strip into the binding recess with the adhesive side
facing up. The short side of the bent “L” should be resting against
the back wall. Slide the Lx-Strip all the way to the right (figure 7b).
HINT: For a uniform strip width on your front cover—regardless
of document thickness—turn your document in the binder with the
front cover facing the back of the machine.
5. Tamp your document cover and pages on the front flat surface of
the housing so that they are straight. Place the document on top of
the Lx-Strip and slide the document all the way to the right (figure 8).
6. Tap the document on the top and the left to be sure all pages are
even. Push the pages backward to ensure proper binding. Check that
the document edge aligns with the edge of the Lx-Strip (figure 9).
7. Press the BIND button (figure 10). The binding process will begin.
• NOTE: Stopping the binding process: During the first several
seconds of the binding cycle, you can push the OPEN button
(the orange button closest to the front) to abort the whole process
and open the document clamps. Use a new binding strip when the
process resumes.
8. As soon as the display flashes “REMOVE BOOK,” pick up the
document and place it against a rear book support fence (figure 11).
9. Let the bound document cool for five minutes.
F I G U R E 7a F I G U R E 7b
F I G U R E 8
F I G U R E 9
F I G U R E 10
F I G U R E 11
NOTE: If you have a Model 8 binder
instead of the 8x, you must only use the
original L-strips.

8 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 9
BINDING A DOCUMENT
WITH HALFBACK™ COVERS
V-B
1. If necessary, switch to Halfback mode (see Section VII, page
15). If the machine is already in Halfback mode, the display
reads “READY TO BIND” … “HALFBACK”.
2. Select your Halfback cover according to your document
thickness:
10 - 100 sheets = Narrow Halfback
101 - 200 sheet = Medium Halfback
(Not compatible with the Wide Halfback)
(This may vary slightly depending on the paper and cover
thickness.)
• HINT: If you are not sure which Halfback width to use,
simply place your document in the binding recess and push
the BIND button. The correct width will be shown on the
display.
• NOTE: You can add a custom inkjet-printed design or
title to the front and spine of your Halfback cover. Follow
the instructions included in your Halfback box.
3. Form your Halfback front cover into an “L” shape, by
folding it along the score mark closest to the cover edge.
Make sure adhesive side faces inward. Place the document
pages on the short flap so they are sitting on the un-melted
adhesive. Put the back cover in place (figure 12).
4. Tamp your document cover and pages on the front flat
surface of the housing so that they are straight. Place your
assembled document into the binding recess and slide it all
the way to the right (figure 13). Tap the document on the
top and the left to ensure all pages are even.
5. Push the pages backward to ensure proper binding (figure
14). Check that the document edge aligns with the edge of
the Halfback cover.
6. Press the BIND button (figure 15). The binding process will
begin.
7. As soon as the display flashes “REMOVE BOOK,” pick up
the document and place it against a cooling fence (figure
16). Let it cool for five minutes.
• NOTE: Stopping the binding process: During the first
several seconds of the binding cycle, you can push the
OPEN button (the orange button closest to the front) to
abort the whole process and open the document clamps.
Use a new binding strip when the process resumes.
• NOTE: For proper binding results, the Halfback spine
flap must not be too curled prior to insertion in the binder.
Flatten the spine by hand if necessary.
F I G U R E 12
F I G U R E 13
F I G U R E 14
F I G U R E 15
F I G U R E 16

8 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 9
BOUND DOCUMENT
V-C
With the model 8x binder, our Scoring Machine and Perfectback binding
strips, you can bind professional looking paperback books right at your
desk top. There are two types of Perfectback Lx-Strips. Which type
of strip you should use will depend on what type of document you are
binding, and how it was printed.
• Perfectback ® LF Lx - Strips™
LF stands for “Lay-Flat.” These strips create a book bind that lays flat
when opened. The spine hinges free from the book block. The book
opens easily without creasing the spine and you can do the final binding
without heat so you can use printing methods and cover materials that
are heat-sensitive. These strips have two narrow bands of release paper,
one on each side of the back of the strip (Figure 17).
• Perfectback ® PS Lx - Strips™
PS stands for “Pressure-Sensitive.” These strips have a pressure-sensitive
adhesive on one side of the strip, and a thermal plastic adhesive on the
other side. The entire spine of the cover is permanently bound to the
book block. Final binding is done without heat so you can use cover
materials or printing methods that are heat-sensitive without worry.
These strips have a narrow and a wide band of release paper on the
back of the strip (Figure 18).
• Scoring Machine
The following two pages explain the general procedure to make each
type of Perfectback® book. For greater ease in positioning and applying
the scores to your cover, we recommend using the Powis Parker Scoring
Machine (available separately). With the Scoring Machine you can quickly
and easily add crisp single or double score lines to your wraparound
covers. Spine titles are always perfectly centered and the scores are
exactly where they should be every time thanks to the Scoring Machine’s
unique technology.
F I G U R E 17
F I G U R E 18
SCORING MACHINE

10 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 11
BINDING A DOCUMENT WITH
PERFECTBACK® LF Lx-STRIPS™
V-C
1. If necessary, switch to Perfectback LF mode (see Section
VII, page 15). If the machine is already in Perfectback
LF mode, the display reads “READY TO BIND” …
“PERFECTBACK LF”.
2. Select your Perfectback strip according to your document
thickness:
10-125 sheets= Narrow Perfectback® LF Lx - Strip™
125-250 sheets = Medium Perfectback® LF Lx - Strip™
(This may vary slightly depending on the paper and cover
thickness.)
• HINT: If you are not sure which strip width to use, simply
place your document in the binding recess and push the
BIND button. The correct width will be shown on the
display.
3. Follow steps 3 through 9 on page 7 to bind your book
block.
4. Score and fold your cover at the two positions that will
represent your spine edges (Figure 19).
• Tip: The Powis Parker Scoring Machine can do this
quickly and accurately for you.
5. Peel off the thin release paper at the front of your book
block (Figure 20).
6. Place your pre-folded cover on a flat surface with the front
of the cover bent up from the rear spine edge. Insert your
book block inside the front of your cover. Position it so full
and even contact is made in the spine area (Figure 21).
7. Fold your front cover tightly over the book block.
Starting from the middle, rub back and forth to secure the
cover to the adhesive strip beneath it (Figure 22).
8. Flip the book over. Open the back cover and remove the
remaining release paper (Figure 23).
9. Tightly pull the cover against the spine. Rub back and forth,
starting from the middle, to bind the back cover to the
adhesive beneath it (Figure 24).
10. Trim the book ends as desired.
F I G U R E 19
F I G U R E 20
F I G U R E 21
F I G U R E 22
F I G U R E 23
F I G U R E 24

10 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 11
BINDING A DOCUMENT WITH
PERFECTBACK® PS Lx-STRIPS™
V-C
1. If necessary, switch to Perfectback PS mode (see Section VII, page
15). If the machine is already in Perfectback PS mode, the display
reads “READY TO BIND” … “PERFECTBACK PS”.
2. Select your Perfectback strip according to your document thickness:
10-125 sheets= Narrow Perfectback® PS Lx-Strip™
125-250 sheets = Medium Perfectback® PS Lx-Strip™
(This may vary slightly depending on the paper and cover thickness.)
• HINT: If you are not sure which strip width to use, simply place
your document in the binding recess and push the BIND button.
The correct width will be shown on the display.
3. Follow steps 3 through 9 on page 7 to bind your book block.
4. Score and fold your cover at the two positions that will represent
your spine edges (Figure 25).
• Tip: The Powis Parker Scoring Machine can do this quickly and
accurately for you.
5. Peel off the thin release paper at the front of your book block
(Figure 26).
6. Place your pre-folded cover on a flat surface with the front of the
cover bent up from the rear spine edge. Insert your book block
inside the front of your cover. Position it so full and even contact is
made in the spine area. (Figure 27)
7. Fold your front cover tightly over the book block.
Starting from the middle, rub back and forth to secure the cover to
the adhesive strip beneath it (Figure 28).
8. Flip the book over. Open the back cover and peel the remaining
release paper away from the spine, starting with the top edge
(Figure 29).
9. Tightly pull the cover against the spine. Rub back and forth, starting
from the middle, to bind the back cover to the adhesive beneath it
(Figure 30).
10. Trim the book ends as desired.
F I G U R E 25
F I G U R E 26
F I G U R E 27
F I G U R E 28
F I G U R E 29
F I G U R E 30

12 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 13
BINDING HARD COVER BOOKS
V-D
In addition to soft cover binding, with the Model 8x and our Fastback®
Hardcover™ Guide you can create professional-quality hard cover books
easily and inexpensively — in less than a minute.
Our covers are available in a wide range of sizes, colors and finishes.
And, with the addition of our Foilfast. printer, you can apply colorful foil
printed titles and artwork to your covers and spines — in up to seven
great-looking colors with tight registration. The Fastback Hardcover
system works with the Lx-Strip, and the L-Strip. To create a hard cover
book, your book block (interior pages) should be bound with folded
sheets of stiff paper called endleaves at the front and back of the
document (available from you dealer). Once the book block is bound,
assembling your hard cover book can be done quickly and accurately:
1. Measure the bound book block with the Book Width Gauge on the
lower right side of the Hardcover Guide to determine the proper
Fastback Hardcover width (Figure 31).
2. Place an empty Fastback Hardcover, adhesive side up, in the
Hardcover Guide and clamp in place. The top and right edges of
the cover should be under the translucent green stops. If the book
width is C or greater, you may use the green plastic inserts to
ensure that the book block does not shift during binding. Remove
the narrow release paper from the right panel of the Fastback
Hardcover, exposing a small portion of the super-strong binding
adhesive that coats the interior hard covers. (Figure 32).
3. Set your bound book block into place against the Guide’s
translucent green stops and press down to fasten the book block
to the narrow adhesive area (Figure 33). Your book block is now
evenly positioned within the cover.
4. Carefully lift the right side of the book block and remove the large
release paper from the right panel of the Fastback Hardcover
(Figure 34). Lower the book block onto the panel and press it
against the panel to secure it.
5. Remove the remaining release papers, (Figure 35), and bring the
left panel of the Fastback Hardcover over onto the book block with
the top and right edges of the cover abutting the purple stops
(Figure 36). Remove the book from Guide and rub the endleaves to
ensure that they are securely fastened.
If you wish, you can also add headbands (small cloth strips and the top
and bottom edges of the book’s spine) for a more professional finished
appearance (Note: Headbands must be attached before the Fastback
Hardcover is attached. Foilfast Title Sheets are available on the Comp
and Suede covers only.
F I G U R E 31
F I G U R E 32
F I G U R E 33
F I G U R E 34
F I G U R E 35
F I G U R E 36

12 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 13
BINDING A DOCUMENT WITH
WITH L-STRIPS™
V-D
1. If necessary, switch to L-STRIP mode (see Section VII, page
15). If the machine is already in L-STRIP mode, the display
reads “READY TO BIND” …”L-STRIP”.
2. Select your L-Strip according to your document thickness:
10-85 sheets= Narrow L-Strip
86-175 sheets = Medium L-Strip
(Not compatible with the Wide L-Strip.)
(This may vary slightly depending on the paper and cover
thickness.)
HINT: If you are not sure which L-Strip™ width to use, simply
place your document in the binding recess and push the BIND
button. The correct width will be shown on the display.
3. If the strip is not already folded, carefully fold the strip to
a 90° angle (figure 37a). Make sure the adhesive side faces
inward.
4. Place the L-Strip into the binding recess with the adhesive
side facing up. The short side of the bent “L” should be resting
against the back wall. Slide the L-Strip all the way to the right
(figure 37b).
HINT: For a uniform strip width on your front cover—
regardless of document thickness—turn your document in
the binder with the front cover facing the back of the machine.
5. Tamp your document cover and pages on the front flat
surface of the housing so that they are straight. Place the
document on top of the L-Strip and slide the document all
the way to the right (figure 38).
6. Tap the document on the top and the left to be sure all pages
are even. Push the bottom of the pages backward to ensure
proper binding. Check that the document edge aligns with the
edge of the L-Strip (figure 39).
7. Press the BIND button (figure 40). The binding process will
begin.
• NOTE: Stopping the binding process: During the first several
seconds of the binding cycle, you can push the OPEN button
to abort the whole process and open the document clamps.
(The OPEN button is the orange one closest to the front.)
Use a new binding strip when the process resumes.
8. As soon as the display flashes “REMOVE BOOK,” pick up
the document and place it against a rear book support fence.
(figure 41).
9. Let the bound document cool for five minutes.
NOTE: If you have a Model 8 binder
instead of the 8x, you must only use the
original L-strips.
F I G U R E 37a F I G U R E 37b
F I G U R E 38
F I G U R E 39
F I G U R E 40
F I G U R E 41

14 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 15
TIPS FOR BEST BINDING
VI
• Before binding, tap the pages several times to ensure that they are
even when the document is in the binding recess. The Lx-Strip
edge and document edge should line up.
• The grain of the paper should run parallel to the binding edge of
the document. All paper has a grain — it is a result of the fibers that
make up the paper. If the grain runs parallel to the long side of the
sheet, the paper is “grain long”. When the grain runs parallel to the
short side of the paper, it is “grain short”.
A sheet of paper will naturally flex more easily along the direction of
its grain. Try it and see. (Hold a piece of paper the long way lightly in
your fingertips and gently bow the paper, allowing it to flex. Now try
it the other way. See the difference.
Most copy papers are grain long, so you should not have any
problems with the bind. Grain long paper will give you the best
bind. Occasionally you may find papers that are grain short, so we
recommend you test unfamiliar papers before binding large numbers
of documents.
• Coated papers, and papers with heavy ink or toner coverage may
also experience problems with binding. If you have documents with
heavy ink or toner coverage, always do a test bind first to ensure
that your documents will bind properly.
• After the binding cycle, be sure to place your document entirely
upright, with the bound side down, against one of the two rear
book support fences for five minutes. Improper cooling of your
document may result in a crooked spine. Bind strength increases
over time, and is maximized after 24 hours.
• NOTE: When placing multiple documents in the front cooling
compartment, make sure it doesn’t get overloaded to where the
front document hangs off the metal step. For questions about, or
problems with paper grain direction or machine operation, call your
Fastback® dealer.
MAINTENANCE TIP : Minor glue buildup on the heaters is
expected. When cleaning the heaters, turn the machine off and
unplug it. Wait for the heaters to cool, and then wipe off any glue
using a dry lint free cloth. Cleaning solution is not necessary.
(Caution: The heaters are very delicate. Do not use anything sharp
to remove glue from the clamps, platen, or interior surfaces of the
binder. )
CAUTION: Before cleaning heaters, turn off unit
and unplug power cord. Allow heaters to cool for
one minute before cleaning. Don’t use sharp objects
on heater surfaces.
!

14 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 15
USER MENU
VII
Activate the USER MENU by pressing the MENU button, which
is the middle button. Use the MENU button to shift through
the different functions, and the green BIND button to select the
desired function (figure 42).
User Menu choices are as follows:
A. L-STRIP. (optional bind style, available only in this
mode. See page 18)
B. Lx-STRIP. (bind style)
C. Lx-COMP STRIP.(bind style)
D. HALFBACK. (bind style)
E. PERFECTBACK®LF (bind style)
F. PERFECTBACK®PS (bind style)
G. EDIT MODE
H. SETTINGS
I. EXIT
A. L-STRIP™ (Refer to Page13 for instructions on binding in
this mode)
Our regular L-Strips that were designed for the first generation
Model 8 binder can be used on this new Model 8x machine,
by using the “L-STRIP ON” menu setting (see page 18). When
using this menu setting, the L-STRIP mode will appear in the
bind style menu.
B. Lx-STRIP™ (Refer to Page 7 for instructions on binding
in this mode)
This standard setting allows the user to bind a document with
Lx-Strips.
• NOTE: When a different bind setting is selected, after the
machine is turned off and on, that setting will be retained.
BIND button:
Selects menu
functions
MENU button:
Cycles forward
through functions
OPEN button:
Cycles backwards
through functions
F I G U R E 42

16 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 17
USER MENU (continued)
VII
C. Lx-COMP STRIP. (Refer to Page 7 for Lx-Comp Strip binding
instructions.)
After switching to the Lx-COMP STRIP setting, follow the Lx-Strip
procedure to bind in this mode.)
The eye-catching executive look of the Lx-Comp Strip offers a high-
end appearance, and is designed to match our Comp covers for
your special presentations.
D. HALFBACK. (Refer to Page 8, for Halfback binding instructions.)
This setting allows the user to bind a document with Halfback
covers .
E. PERFECTBACK® LF (Refer to Page 10, for Perfectback LF
binding instructions.)
Perfectback LF strips produce a wraparound cover spine that hinges
freely from the bound spine of your book block.
F. PERFECTBACK® PS (Refer to Page 11, for Perfectback PS
binding instructions.)
Perfectback PS strips produce a wraparound cover that bonds fully
all around the spine of your book block.
See Page 9 for more detailed information about the benefits of each
Perfectback strip.
NOTE: An overview of the new Fastback® Hardcover™ binding
option is presented on page 12.

16 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 17
USER MENU (continued)
VII
H. EDIT MODE
The Edit Mode enables removal and insertion of pages in a
document previously bound by the Model 8x binder.
1. Select EDIT MODE in the User Menu. The display will read
“READY TO EDIT.”
2. Open and flatten your document to the page you wish to
remove. Fold down the corner of that page.
3. Behind this page insert the new page you want to add
(figure 43). Slip it in as far as you can. When you’re sure it’s
straight, close your document.
4. Put your document in the binder and press the BIND
button. This begins the Edit cycle.
5. While the binder is re-melting the spine adhesive, pinch
the front and back portions of the document with one
hand, leaving the bent page free (figure 44). When the
clamps start to open and the display reads “EDIT NOW,”
immediately pull the bent page from the document.
(Holding the front and back portions of your document
keeps the remaining pages in place.) If the page doesn’t
remove easily the first time, simply repeat this step.
As soon as you remove the bent page, tap down the new
page until it’s flush with the rest of the document.
Make sure you are directly tapping the document’s pages—
not just the tops of the document’s covers. Now press the
BIND button again. The binder will now rebind the book.
6. When the display flashes “REMOVE BOOK,” place the
edited document between the cooling fences for five
minutes.
 

F I G U R E 43
F I G U R E 44

18 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 19
USER MENU (continued)
VII
I. SETTINGS
SPINE BIND TIME allows the user to increase or decrease the time it
takes to bind the spine of a document. The bind can be improved on
some difficult-to–bind paper stocks by increasing the Spine Bind Time.
COVER BIND TIME allows the user to increase or decrease the time it
takes to bind the cover of a document. The binding of heavy covers may
require additional Cover Bind Time for the heat to transfer through the
thicker material.
LANGUAGE allows the user to change the language on the display.
The choices are:
ENGLISH
DUTCH
DEUTSCH
FRANCAIS
ITALIANO
ESPAÑOL
NORSK
SVENSKA
DANSK
STRIP MODE allows the user to configure the Model 8x to bind with
the original type L-Strip by selecting the “L-STRIP ON” menu option.
• The “L-STRIP ON” mode activates the L-Strip bind mode in the
menu. Now, you can select the L-Strip option among the bind
modes.
• In the “L-STRIP OFF” mode, you can only bind with the new type
Lx-Strip. This is the preferred mode for users without the original
L-Strip.
NOTE: To ensure optimal bind quality, make sure to always bind
with the correct bind mode selected. Contact your local Fastback®
dealer for more information.
J. EXIT
Returns the user to the “READY TO BIND” mode.

18 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05 19
TROUBLESHOOTING - ERROR MESSAGES
VIII
Possible Cause Solution
The operator pressed the Bind button without inserting a
book into the binding recess.
Place a book into the machine and then press the Bind
button.
The sheets are not fully justified against the right side of the
binding recess.
Tap the edges of the sheets until the book is flush
against the right side of the binding recess prior to
pressing the BIND button.
The book sensor is damaged Contact your local Fastback® dealer for service.
Possible Cause Solution
You are trying to bind too many sheets with the medium strip. Remove some sheets.
Possible Cause Solution
You are trying to bind too many sheets with a narrow strip. Remove some sheets or use a medium width strip.
There is no strip in the binding recess. Insert a medium strip.
Possible Cause Solution
You are trying to bind too few sheets with a medium strip. Add some sheets or use a narrow width strip.
There is no strip in the binding recess. Insert a narrow strip.
Possible Cause Solution
The strip is inserted into the machine backwards. Make sure the short end of the strip is vertical and the
long end of the strip is flat.
Possible Cause Solution
Machine needs technical attention. Turn the machine off and then back on. If the error still
appears contact your local dealer for technical attention.
• Error Message: “INSERT BOOK”
Possible Cause Solution
The strip is too wide for the amount of sheets placed in the
binding recess.
Add more sheets or use a narrower width strip.
The strip is not folded. Make sure to fully fold the strip into a 90 degree angle.
The strip is not lined up properly. Make sure the strip and the sheets are justified against
the back of the binding recess.
The machine is configured to bind the new Lx-Strip and
you tried to bind using the original type L-Strip.
In settings, select the L-STRIP ON menu option in the
STRIP MODE Settings menu. See page 18 for details.
• Error Message: “USE SMALLER SIZE”
• Error Message: “BOOK TOO THICK”
• Error Message: “USE MEDIUM SIZE”
• Error Message: “USE NARROW SIZE”
• Error Message: “REVERSE STRIP”
• Error Message: “MACHINE ERROR XX”

20 FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. C 04/08/05
FASTBACK MODEL 8x USER’S MANUAL, L4079 Rev. B 7/12/04 21
TROUBLESHOOTING - BIND QUALITY
VIII
Problems Solution
• The spine is not square. • Fold the Lx-Strip into a 90 degree angle. The better you
fold the strip the more square the spine will be.
• After binding, make sure the book is placed in the
cooling rack to properly cool down.
Problems Solution
• The pages protrude past the strip
• The edges of the pages are not even.
• Tap on the top and left sides of the pages until the
edges are even.
• Make sure the strip is flush against the right side of the
binding recess.
Problems Solution
• Bind quality is unsatisfactory.
• Part of the page separates from the
strip.
• Gaps in the pages where the strip can
be seen.
• Thermal plastic adhesive leakage.
• Verify the machine is set to the correct binding style. (See the
User Menu section for more details.)
Problems Solution
• The pages are not adhering to the
strip very well. (Some paper stocks
and some heavy cover material can be
difficult to bind.)
• The bind may be improved by increasing the Spine Bind Time
in the Setting Menu. See the User Menu.