Jeff McRitchie

Frequently Asked Questions About Copier Tabs

If you've ever wondered what copier tabs are, you're reading the right article. This FAQ will answer your questions about copier tabs and let you know what they're used for, how to use them, and what kinds of copier tabs are available for your copier. Read on and get ready learn everything you ever wanted to know about index tabs that you use with your photocopier!

What are copier tabs? What can they be used for?

They are blank index tabs that can be used in copiers and laser printers. They're great for customization, so you can print your very own tabs that say exactly what you want them to. The uses of these tabs are endless. You can use them in your proposals, directories, training booklets, marketing materials, and so on. Any long document that needs to be broken up into sections can benefit from copier-tabs. You could even create customized subject tabs for your kid's school notebook. The possibilities abound.

What copiers can I use these tabs with?

Xerox DocuTechs are the most commonly used copiers for working with copier tabs. However, just about all of the major office machine manufacturers make machines that are compatible with the tabs, including ones from Canon, Ricoh, and IBM. More and more machines are becoming tab-friendly, so if you have a favorite manufacturer, odds are you'll be able to find a machine made by said manufacturer with which to work.

What's types of things should I look for when comparing copier tabs?

You have many choices when it comes to selecting which tabs to use for your project. However, not all tabs are created equal. Here are some things that you should really look for when buying copier-tabs for use in your organization.

• Look for tabs that are made from xerographic grade 90 lb. or 110lb index paper. Some companies choose to cut costs and use less expensive paper stocks when creating their tabs. However, less expensive papers will often result in copier jams and curling problems when running tabs through your copier.
• Look for tabs that are clean, meaning they won't gunk up your copier or printer. They also run through the machine smoothly so your work will be much easier and you won't waste time resolving paper jams.
• Consider your binding method. Copier-tabs are available with 19 holes (good for plastic comb binding), three holes (for three-ring binders), or no holes for other binding methods.
• Consider whether you want Mylar coated tabs and reinforced edges. These two options can add quite a bit to the cost of index tabs. However, they can make a huge difference in durability. Especially if your tabs are going to be used inside frequently referenced documents.

What kind of copier tabs are available?

When ordering copier tabs there are literally hundreds of options available. However, understanding the different types of tabs is really not that difficult. It really comes down to understanding the features that they have. Here is a quick overview of the different features that you will commonly find in copier tabs.

1. Paper Stock: The two most common choices for copier tabs are 90lb and 110lb index stock. Usually the paper is white. However, it is possible to custom order copier tabs in other colors.
2. Tab Coating: These tabs usually have either a plain paper tab or a toner-receptive Mylar coating. The Mylar coating is usually clear but can be special ordered in colors if necessary.
3. Edge Style: Copier compatible tabs are available with or without reinforced edges. They can also be purchased pre-punched for use with ring binders or standard binding styles.
4. Collation: Depending on your copier you may need your tabs to be collated in a specific order. The most common collating style is single-reverse. However, tabs are also available straight-collated, double-reverse collated and uncollated. Check your copier's user manual to determine what style you require.
5. Cut: The last decision you have to make will be, "How many tabs per bank?" The most common cut has 5 tabs per bank. However, copier tabs are available with anywhere between 2 tabs and 25tabs per bank.

Hopefully this article answered some of your questions about copier tabs. The next time you find yourself binding a document that needs to be broken up into sections, considering using copier-tabs so your work will be neat and organized!

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