Understanding the Different Types of Copier Tabs

Many of the newer photocopiers on the market have the ability to accept and print directly onto index tabs. However, in order to select the correct type of index tabs for your photocopier there are several different things that you must first understand. This article is designed to provide a quick overview of the different types of copier tabs to help you better understand the tabs that will best suit your needs. Here are four important things to consider when choosing copier tabs:

1. Copier tabs are available collated several different ways. The most common collation style is single reverse collated copier tabs (5-4-3-2-1). However, depending on your copier you might need double reverse collated copier tabs (5-5-4-4-3-3-2-2-1-1), straight collated copier tabs (1-2-3-4-5) or uncollated copier tabs (each box comes with one tab position). If you aren’t sure what type of copier tabs you need to use with your copier you might consult your manual or consider starting with either uncollated copier tabs or with single reverse collated copier tabs since they are the most common.
2. Copier tabs are also available in different cuts. The cut of a copier tab simply refers to the number of index tabs along the 11” edge of the tab. Although the most common cut for copier tabs is 1/5th cut, copier tabs are also available in other cuts including 1/3rd cut, 1/4th cut, 1/6th cut, 1/8th cut and 1/10th cut. Most of these specialty cuts are currently only available in single reversed collated tabs.
3. After deciding on the collation style and the cut of the copier tabs you need to decide whether you want coated tabs or not. Copier tabs are available in plain paper and with a coated toner receptive trilar coating. This simply means that the tab extension of the copier tabs has a laminated coating on it for added protection and strength.
4. Finally, the last thing to consider is whether your copier tabs need to be three hole drilled (for use with three ring binders) and whether you need them to have a reinforced binding edge.

All of these features are available in copier tabs. However, not all cuts and styles are available in all collation styles. However, if you are looking for something that you do not see on our website and need a larger quantity please call us and we will quote you on having it made for you. Also, if you are looking for a template for printing onto your copier tabs check out our copier tab templates page.

If you have any other questions or comments about this article please feel free to
email us at sales@mybinding.com or call us at 1-800-944-4573

Written Jeff McRitchie
©2007 www.MyBinding.com