GBC Shredmaster GDM10 Jam Free Micro Cut Paper Shredder

Staff Review

GBC Shredmaster GDM10 Jam Free Micro Cut Paper Shredder Review

More and more offices are realizing the importance of high security shredding.  The Shredmaster GDM10 offers the second highest security device in the Jam Free line of shredders by GBC.  Designed for moderate use in medium departments or small offices, this shredder is outfitted with decent capacities and easy to use features.  Paper jams are a rare occurrence, thanks to Jam Free technology.  Here is a closer look at some of the details of the GDM10.

Strengths:

• Automatic features provide easy use.  An automated on/off activates the blades as items slide into the opening.  Once all materials are through, the blades shut off to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.  Idleness for two minutes will trigger the motor to power down into an energy conserving power save mode.  A backlit, multi-function control panel offers easy, push button operation.  Optical signals keep the user apprised of the machine’s status at all times.
• The motor is built for super quiet operation.  The noise level of this device rates about ten decibels lower than its competitors, providing a hushed shredding experience.
• Jam Free technology works by preventing jams before they occur.  If too much material is fed into the machine, the throat glows red and cuts power to the blades.  When the excess items are removed, the opening will illuminate green and shred as normal.  In the rare case of a jam, the automatic reverse helps to unclog the blades by pushing items back out to the user.
• The wide 9.84 inch opening accepts 10 sheets of paper at once, shredding them as fast as 16 feet per minute.  It can also take in staples, paperclips, and credit cards.  The miniscule remains fall into a spacious 13 gallon waste bin.
• The micro cutting mechanism renders full size paper into tiny chads, only 3/32″ by 19/32″ in size.  These tiny particles provide a level 4 security rating.  While this doesn’t quite meet DOD specs, it is small enough to safely destroy financial data, medical records, and other proprietary information.
• This product is covered by a two year warranty, which includes parts and labor.  GBC also provides on-site service.  The cutters carry a one year warranty.

Weaknesses:

• As often is the case with smaller shredders, this one doesn’t offer continuous run.  Even so, it does have a run time of 15 minutes and only needs a 20 minute cool down period.  Small to medium offices may not even notice this occurring.  Larger offices with heavier use will probably want a device with a more powerful, continuous duty motor such as the GLX3055.
• The capacities on this machine are on the smaller side.  Because it’s only designed for small to medium office use, those in that category will find it adequate.  Bigger offices with higher shredding needs will find this machine to be too small and should look into a different model.

As you can see from the many strengths, GBC has delivered yet another quality shredder.  This is a great device for use by 5-10 users who shred often.  Its quiet run, automatic features, and Jam Free technology provide a convenient, efficient device that is simple to use.  We think any office would benefit from the GBC Shredmaster GDM10 as their next shredder.