Brother 1880 Label Maker Manual

The Brother 1880 is a compact electronic label maker designed for home and office use. It features a full QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, automatic tape cutting, and supports various tape widths. Powered by AC adapter or batteries, it's ideal for organizing, filing, and creating custom labels. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Creating Labels 7. Advanced Features 8. Tape Loading & Replacement 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, Tape compartment, Power switch, Function keys, Tape cutter.

FeatureDescription
QWERTY keyboardFull keyboard for easy text entry
LCD displayShows text, formatting, and preview before printing
Tape compartmentHolds label tape cartridge (3.5mm to 12mm width)
Power switchTurns device on/off
Function keysAccess fonts, frames, sizes, and special features
Tape cutterManual or automatic cutting of printed labels
AC adapter portFor power connection
Battery compartmentHolds 6 AA batteries for portable use
Preview buttonDisplays label preview on screen
Print buttonPrints the created label

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on clean, flat surface.

  1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into DC jack and wall outlet (optional).
  3. Load tape: Open tape compartment, insert cartridge with tape facing out.
  4. Power on: Slide power switch to ON position.

WARNING! Keep small parts away from children. Use correct battery type to avoid damage.

First-Time Operation

Power on device; LCD will display welcome message.

  1. Select language: Press LANGUAGE key, choose from available options.
  2. Set tape width: Press SIZE key, select width matching loaded tape.
  3. Test print: Type sample text, press PRINT to verify operation.
  4. Adjust contrast: Use CONTRAST key if LCD is too dim or dark.

CAUTION! Do not force tape cartridge. Ensure compartment is closed securely.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, PREVIEW, CUT.

Function Keys: FONT, SIZE, FRAME, STYLE, ALIGN, UNDERLINE, LANGUAGE, SETTINGS.

Text Formatting: Font selection (Arial, Times, Script, etc.), Size (Small, Medium, Large), Style (Bold, Italic, Outline), Alignment (Left, Center, Right), Underline on/off. Label Features: Frames (box, rounded, decorative), Auto numbering, Sequential labeling, Mirror printing. Settings: Language, Contrast, Tape width, Auto cut on/off, Unit reset.

Creating Labels

Basic label creation steps:

  1. Turn on device and ensure tape is loaded.
  2. Type text using keyboard (use SHIFT for capitals).
  3. Format text: Press FONT, SIZE, STYLE to customize appearance.
  4. Add frame: Press FRAME, select desired border.
  5. Preview: Press PREVIEW to see label on display.
  6. Print: Press PRINT; label prints and automatically cuts (if auto-cut enabled).
  7. Manual cut: If auto-cut off, press CUT lever after printing.

Tip: Use PREVIEW to avoid wasting tape on errors.

Advanced Features

Sequential Numbering: Press NUMBER, enter start value and quantity. Mirror Printing: For application on transparent surfaces; press MIRROR before printing. Memory Recall: Store up to 10 labels in memory for quick reprinting. Auto Numbering: Automatically increments numbers for multiple labels. Symbol Library: Access 50+ symbols (arrows, warning signs, etc.) via SYMBOL key.

Tape Loading & Replacement

Supports Brother TZe tape cartridges.

  1. Power off device.
  2. Open tape compartment cover.
  3. Remove old cartridge (if present).
  4. Insert new cartridge with tape end facing outward.
  5. Feed tape end slightly into printing mechanism.
  6. Close compartment cover securely.
  7. Power on; device will calibrate automatically.

WARNING! Do not touch print head. Use genuine Brother tapes for best results.

Care & Maintenance

Power off and remove batteries before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; no liquids or solvents.

CAUTION! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or humidity. Store in protective case when not in use.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-267-8437. This product uses thermal printing technology; no ink or toner required.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries/loose adapterReplace batteries; ensure adapter is firmly connected.
Blank displayContrast setting/powerAdjust contrast with CONTRAST key; check power source.
Tape not feedingImproper loading/jammed tapeReopen compartment, realign tape; clear any jam gently.
Faint printingLow battery/old tapeReplace batteries; use fresh tape cartridge.
Keys not respondingDevice locked/low powerPower off/on; replace batteries; perform reset.
Error message on displayTape mismatch/system errorCheck tape width setting; turn off/on to reset.

Reset: Press and hold POWER + PRINT for 5 seconds to factory reset.

Service: 1-877-267-8437; www.brother-usa.com

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