brother model pt-1010 manual

The Brother PT-1010 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for creating durable, professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various label tapes, decorative frames, and a built-in cutter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Functions 5. Basic Label Creation 6. Advanced Functions 7. Tape Cassette Handling 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with keyboard and LCD display, AC power adapter, starter tape cassette, and user manual.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full KeyboardQWERTY layout with function keys for easy text entry
Tape Cassette SystemAccepts various Brother TZe tape widths (6mm, 9mm, 12mm, 18mm)
Built-in CutterManual cutter lever for precise label cutting
Multiple Fonts & StylesSeveral font styles, sizes, and decorative frames
Auto NumberingAutomatically generates sequential numbers
Power SourceAC adapter or optional battery pack (6 AA batteries)
Print ModeThermal printing, no ink or toner required
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels for quick recall
Mirror PrintingOption for printing mirrored text (e.g., for window labels)

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Insert Tape Cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape cassette with the tape end facing the cutter, and close the cover firmly.
  2. Connect Power: Plug the AC adapter into the DC IN jack on the side of the unit, then plug the adapter into a standard 120V AC outlet.
  3. Power On: Press the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate.
  4. Set Language/Units: Use the FUNCTION key to access the initial setup menu to select language, date format, and measurement units.

WARNING! Use only the Brother AD-24ES AC adapter. Do not use near water or in humid environments.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or the FUNCTION menu on the LCD.

Front Panel Keys: POWER, LETTER SIZE, FONT, FRAME, UNDERLINE/BORDER, PRINT, CUT (manual lever).

Function Menu (FUNCTION key): Access settings for Auto Numbering, Mirror Print, Label Length, Memory Store/Recall, System Setup (Language, Units, Buzzer, Demo Print).

Formatting: Use LETTER SIZE to cycle through sizes. Use FONT to select font style. Use FRAME to select decorative borders. Use UNDERLINE/BORDER for text emphasis.

Basic Label Creation

Follow these steps to create and print a simple label.

  1. Power on the unit. Ensure a tape cassette is installed.
  2. Type your text using the keyboard. The text appears on the LCD.
  3. Format the text: Press FONT to choose a style. Press LETTER SIZE to adjust size. Press FRAME to add a decorative border if desired.
  4. Preview: The LCD shows the formatted text. Use the left/right arrow keys to scroll if the text is longer than 12 characters.
  5. Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will print. A message will prompt you to cut.
  6. Cut: Use the manual cutter lever on the top right of the unit to cut the label.

Tip: Press the SPACE key to insert a blank space. Press DEL to delete the character to the left of the cursor.

Advanced Functions

Utilize these features for more complex labeling tasks.

  1. Auto Numbering: Press FUNCTION, then select AUTO NUMBER. Enter start number, end number, and increment value. The PT-1010 will print a series of numbered labels.
  2. Mirror Printing: Press FUNCTION, select MIRROR PRINT (ON). Use for creating labels to be read from the opposite side (e.g., glass doors).
  3. Fixed Label Length: Press FUNCTION, select LABEL LENGTH, and enter a specific length (in inches or mm). The printer will print and then automatically advance to that length for cutting.
  4. Memory Store/Recall: Store up to 9 frequently used labels. To store, create the label, press FUNCTION, select MEMORY, choose a number (1-9). To recall, press FUNCTION, select MEMORY, choose the stored number.
  5. Symbols & Frames: Press the SYMBOL key to access a library of symbols. Press FRAME repeatedly to cycle through decorative frame options.

Tape Cassette Handling

Supports Brother TZe series laminated tape cassettes.

  1. Opening Cassette Cover: Slide the cover release latch and lift the cover open.
  2. Inserting Cassette: Place the cassette into the compartment with the tape end feeding towards the cutter slot and the Brother logo facing up. Press down until it clicks.
  3. Threading Tape: Gently pull the tape end and guide it through the slot next to the cutter. Close the cover firmly.
  4. Removing Cassette: Open the cover and lift the cassette straight out.

WARNING! Do not touch the thermal print head inside the cassette compartment. Do not use damaged or non-Brother tapes. Keep tapes in their original packaging until use to avoid dust and moisture.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the AC adapter before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. For stubborn marks, dampen the cloth slightly with water. Do not use alcohol, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.

Cleaning the Print Head: If print quality fades, the print head may be dirty. With the unit off and unplugged, open the cassette cover. Use a clean, dry cotton swab to gently wipe the silver metallic print head roller. Close the cover.

CAUTION! Never spray liquids directly onto the unit. Avoid extreme temperatures and direct sunlight. Store in a cool, dry place.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. This product conforms to applicable FCC rules. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-4BROTHER (1-877-427-6843).

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerAdapter not connected/batteries deadEnsure AC adapter is firmly plugged into unit and wall outlet. If using batteries, install fresh ones.
Nothing printsNo tape/tape installed incorrectlyInstall a tape cassette correctly. Ensure the tape end is fed through the cutter guide.
Faded or blank printDirty print head/old tapeClean the print head with a dry cotton swab. Try a new tape cassette.
Tape jams or wrinklesCassette not seated properlyOpen cover, remove cassette, re-insert firmly, and re-thread tape.
Keys do not respondUnit locked upTurn the power off and back on. If problem persists, disconnect power for 1 minute.
Incorrect characters printWrong language settingPress FUNCTION, go to SYSTEM SETUP, select LANGUAGE, choose the correct language.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, turn unit off. Press and hold the LETTER SIZE and FONT keys while turning the power on. Release the keys after the LCD lights up.

Service: 1-877-4BROTHER; www.brother-usa.com

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