Martin Yale 1501X AutoFolder Paper Folding Machine

Staff Review

Martin Yale 1501x AutoFolder Paper Folding Machine Review

A wide variety of automatic paper folders are available on the market today. But one to look at a little closer is the Martin Yale 1501x AutoFolder. This machine delivers functionality and productivity without being complicated to operate. Its compact, easy to use design combined with high speed performance make it perfect for churches, schools, and other businesses. Here is a more detailed look at the 1501x AutoFolder.

Strengths:

• While slightly large to sit on a desk, this AutoFolder is still small enough for table top use. It weighs about 33 pounds, light enough to be moved around easily for shared use.

• A large feed tray has capacity for 200 sheets of 20lb bond. The folder will automatically feed them into the machine, fold them, and then eject the finished product into the catch tray. A manual bypass allows up to three loose or stapled sheets to be folded together. This is very handy for multi-page invoices, newsletters, and correspondence.

• This machine is mainly designed to handle letter, A4, and legal size documents. However, the manually adjustable fold plates allow custom folds for paper as small as 3-1/2" x 5" and as large as 8-3/4" x 14". The plates require simple adjustments with a preset guide to help you with the most common sizes and folds.

• Four fold styles are offered by this machine: "C" fold, "Z" fold, half or single fold, and double parallel or engineering fold. The adjustable plates do allow for a variety of custom folds but require careful and precise modification to ensure straight folds.

• Paper weights accepted by this device range from 16lb-28lb bond.

• The motor is rated for output as fast as 7500 sheets per hour. However, it isn't recommended that you routinely use it at this rate. Doing so will quickly wear out your machine.

• Martin Yale offers a one year limited warranty against defects. This does not include consumable parts, labor, or shipping costs.

Weaknesses:

• This machine cannot fold heavier cardstocks, glossy paper, or coated materials. If your office doesn't frequently use these mediums, then this won't be an issue for you. But if these are commonly used for brochures or other documents, you will want to invest in a folder specifically designed with this capability.

• The plates have to be manually adjusted. For a print shop where things are being moved around often, this may not be an issue. But many offices will find adjusting the plates to be a headache, as it can take much trial and error before getting them in the exact spot for precise folds. By upgrading to the 1701, you can eliminate the hassle and enjoy the simplicity of using electronically adjusted fold plates.

For many small to medium offices, the Martin Yale 1501x is an perfect system for quickly folding all their documents. Even with a few downsides, businesses not affected by these will appreciate the speed, capacity, and functionality of this device. The efficiency provided will increase productivity, saving both time and money. Eventually this machine will pay for itself. We think the Martin Yale 1501x is best suited for offices with moderate folding needs who mainly deal with one or two sizes of paper.