A Review of the Powis Parker Fastback 8x Tape Binding Machine

Powis Parker's Fastback 8x Tape Binding Machine is a thermal binding system that creates what are known as perfect bound books, the like of which you might find on bookstore or library shelves. It uses an adhesive tape binding method and can be used to create documents up to twelve inches in length. Here we'll take a look at what we consider some of the strengths and weaknesses of the Fastback 8x.

Powis Parker's Fastback 8x Tape Binding Machine is a thermal binding system that creates what are known as perfect bound books, the like of which you might find on bookstore or library shelves. It uses an adhesive tape binding method and can be used to create documents up to twelve inches in length. According to company literature, this binding system can bind documents up to 250 pages, and give the user the possibility of creating finished documents up to three times faster than with more conventional punch/bind systems. Here we'll take a look at what we consider some of the strengths and weaknesses of the Fastback 8x.

First, the strengths:

1. Even the complete novice will find the Fastback 8x an easy machine to operate. Having a mere three buttons, one for settings, one for editing, and one to activate, this machine is among the most simple on the market. There is also a function that allows users to save certain settings, making the process as simple as pressing a single button.
2. Supplies for the Fastback are plentiful and easy to acquire. There are only two sizes of strip, and these two give you the flexibility to bind docs that are up to an inch or so thick. This, of course, makes inventory a breeze, as you won't have to worry about having a dozen different spine sizes on hand at all times.
3. Versatility is one of the big features of the Fastback as well. With just one machine, you can produce either soft or hard cover documents, books or reports. Strips and covers come in many colors as well, so you can mix and match to meet your needs. There is even a high-end foil printer option available that allows you to customize your covers.
4. For all it's capabilities, the 8x is quite small and very portable. At a mere thirteen by nineteen and a half inches, it stores away easily and is also easily transported.

Now The Weaknesses:

1. The 8x is not an option for binding documents that are over 250 pages, or with a binding edge that is over twelve inches. If you think that you will need to produce larger books, you might want to look into purchasing the 15x.
2. As with most thermal binding methods, it is difficult to impossible to edit or make major changes to a finished document. It can work out reasonably well if you just need to remove or add a page or two.
3. While most types of paper will work great, some of the glossier stocks will have trouble adhering in this system. Also the high temperatures that are required for the binding process may melt normal pages that are full bleed printed.

The Verdict: The Fastback 8x is perfect for use in a small office, or even a larger office that doesn't regularly need to bind more than about fifty documents in an average week. The look created by the Fastback 8x is top notch, and suitable for even the highest-end presentations and proposals. However, if you regularly need documents over 250 pages, or longer than 12 inches, you might want to look at the Fastback 15x instead.

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