brother model pt-2030 manual

The Brother PT-2030 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, built-in label designs, and a rechargeable battery. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Label Maker, AC Adapter, Starter Label Tape Cassette, User Manual.

Feature	Description
LCD Display	Shows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full Keyboard	QWERTY layout with function keys for easy text entry
Label Tape Cassette	Accepts various Brother TZe tape widths (3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Power Source	Rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack and AC adapter
Print Method	Thermal transfer printing
Fonts & Styles	Multiple fonts, sizes, frames, and underline options
Built-in Designs	Pre-set labels for files, cables, warnings, and more
Auto-Cut Feature	Automatically cuts label after printing (optional setting)
Memory Function	Stores frequently used labels for quick recall
Portable Design	Compact and lightweight for on-the-go labeling

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Ensure all items are present and undamaged.

Insert the battery: Open the battery compartment cover, insert the rechargeable battery pack, and close the cover.
Charge the battery: Connect the AC adapter to the label maker and plug it into a standard 120V AC outlet. Charge for approximately 3.5 hours before first use.
Load the label tape: Open the cassette cover, insert a Brother TZe tape cassette with the tape feeding from the bottom, and close the cover firmly.
Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD display will illuminate.

WARNING! Use only the provided Brother AC adapter and battery. Do not use damaged tapes or cassettes.

First-Time Use

After initial setup, follow these steps to create your first label.

Set language and units: Use the FUNCTION key to access settings. Select your preferred language (default is ENGLISH) and unit of measurement (inch/mm).
Enter text: Use the keyboard to type your label text. The text appears on the LCD.
Format text: Use the FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to change the appearance of your text.
Print the label: Press the PRINT key. The label will print and, if Auto-Cut is enabled, be cut automatically.
Apply the label: Peel the backing from the printed label and apply it to a clean, dry surface.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the cutting mechanism during operation.

Specifications

Model: Brother PT-2030.
Display: LCD, 1 line display.
Tape Widths: 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm (Brother TZe series tapes).
Print Speed: Approx. 10mm/sec.
Power Supply: Rechargeable Ni-MH battery pack (included), AC adapter (included).
Battery Life: Approx. 100 continuous prints (fully charged, 12mm tape).
Charge Time: Approx. 3.5 hours.
Dimensions (WxDxH): Approx. 6.3" x 7.1" x 2.4".
Weight: Approx. 1.1 lbs (including battery).
Operating Environment: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C), 20% to 80% humidity (non-condensing).

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or the FUNCTION menu.

Front Panel Keys: POWER, PRINT, FONT, SIZE, STYLE (Bold, Italic, Underline, Frame), SPACE, DELETE, SHIFT, FUNCTION, Cursor Arrows, Number Keys.

FUNCTION Menu Options: Language, Units, Auto-Cut (On/Off), Tape Width Setting, Number of Copies, Memory (Store/Recall), Symbol Library, Built-in Label Designs, System Reset.

Basic Operations: Text Entry, Text Editing (Insert/Delete), Preview on LCD, Printing, Manual Cutting (using the CUT button).

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, sequential numbering, and built-in designs.

Power on and ensure tape is loaded.
Type your text using the keyboard.
To insert a symbol, press the SYMBOL key and browse using the arrow keys. Press ENTER to select.
Format the text using FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys.
To use a built-in design, press FUNCTION, select "Designs," and choose from categories (File, Cable, Property, etc.).
Set the number of copies (1-9) if needed.
Press PRINT. For manual cut, press the CUT button after printing.

Tip: Use the preview on the LCD to check label layout before printing to conserve tape.

Advanced Features

Memory Function: Store up to 9 frequently used labels. Press FUNCTION > Memory > Store. Recall by pressing FUNCTION > Memory > Recall.

Sequential Numbering: Create a series of numbered labels. Press FUNCTION > Numbering. Set start value, end value, and increment.

Auto-Cut: Automatically cuts the tape after each print. Enable/disable via FUNCTION > Auto-Cut.

Tape Width Setting: Manually set tape width if not detected automatically (FUNCTION > Tape Width).

Maintenance and Care

Unplug AC adapter before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquids or aerosols.

Battery Care: For optimal battery life, fully discharge and recharge the battery every few months if not used regularly. Store in a cool, dry place.

Tape Cassette: Replace tape when the tape end indicator is visible or the tape runs out. Use only genuine Brother TZe tapes.

Cutting Blade: The blade is self-maintaining. Do not touch the blade. If cutting becomes uneven, contact Brother support.

CAUTION! Do not disassemble the unit. There are no user-serviceable parts inside.

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 Brother Customer Service at 1-877-4BROTHER (1-877-427-6843).

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Unit does not power on	Battery depleted, adapter not connected	Connect AC adapter to charge. Ensure adapter is firmly plugged into unit and wall outlet.
Nothing prints / Print is faint	Tape cassette empty or not installed correctly	Check tape level. Eject and reinsert tape cassette firmly. Replace tape if empty.
Text does not appear on LCD	Display contrast issue	Adjust contrast via FUNCTION > Settings > LCD Contrast.
Tape jams or does not feed	Obstructed tape path, damaged cassette	Power off, open cover, and carefully remove any jammed tape. Use a new cassette.
Incorrect characters print	Language setting incorrect	Change language setting via FUNCTION > Language.
Battery does not charge	Faulty adapter, old battery	Check adapter connections. If battery is old (over 3 years), it may need replacement.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, press and hold FUNCTION and DELETE while powering on. Release when "Reset" appears.

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