HSM X18 Level 3 Cross Cut Paper Shredder

Due to the rise of identity theft and fraud, shredders are becoming a necessity in every office. The HSM X18 is a versatile shredder for home and small offices. It offers the secure disposal of not only paper but also a variety of media. Compact enough to sit under a desk, it also works as shared device between a few users. Here is a closer look at some of the details.

Strengths:

• Sitting less than 15 inches tall, this petite device can tidily store under a desk or table for easy access. And though it weighs about 36 pounds, casters on the bottom allow easy mobility.

• A toggle switch controls on, off, and reverse functions. Once the device is on, the motor sits in a standby mode without consuming energy. As items slide into the blades, the machine automatically starts and stops on cue. The automatic stop is also triggered by a full waste container. Reverse is helpful if a paper jam occurs; it will feed the jammed items back out to the user for easy clearing.

• The motor utilizes a powerful drive system for high performance. Thermal fuse protection prevents overheating. Periodically, it may need to shut down for a cool off period.

• A 8.9 inch opening accepts 18-21 sheets at once, shredding them as fast as 6.25 feet per minute. The blades devour stapled and paperclipped documents as well as credit cards, CDs, DVDs, and even floppy disks.

• The cross cutting shafts turn full size documents into tiny pieces, only 5/32" by 1-1/8" in size. These small particles earn a level three security rating. This medium security is great for the disposal of bank statements, junk mail, generic office memos, and other confidential documents.

• Paper remnants fall into a seven gallon waste bin. The container also has an opening for non-confidential waste, allowing it to double as a recycling receptacle.

• This model carries a two year warranty on parts and labor. The actual cutters are guaranteed for an impressive 20 years.

Weaknesses:

• The small pieces only offer a level three security rating. While most personal confidential information stays safe at this level, businesses requiring the secure disposal of highly classified documents will need a higher security machine, such as the HSM 125.2.

• The motor isn't rated for continuous run. This means that after a short period of heavy use, the machine will need to cool down for 20-30 minutes. Offices needing only light use may not even notice this. But if you need heavier shredding and don't want to wait, we recommend looking into a machine with a more powerful motor.

• Shredding 18 sheets at 6 feet per minute isn't very much. Since this is designed to be a personal shredder, these numbers are normal. However, this device won't stand up to more than light use. Be sure of your specific needs before you purchase a device that isn't enough.

Overall, the HSM X18 is an excellent deskside device. The smaller design is perfect for light use between a few people. The simple automated features offer ease of use and convenience. And the cross cut blades ensure your personal information stays safe. The HSM X18 is a great choice for your next personal deskside shredder.