Brother P Touch 1180 Instruction Manual

The Brother P Touch 1180 is a versatile electronic labeling system designed for creating durable, adhesive labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various tape cartridges, automatic tape cutting, and a simple interface for quick label creation. 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 Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Label Maker Unit, AC Power Adapter, Starter Tape Cartridge, Instruction Manual.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full QWERTY KeyboardFor easy text entry
Tape Cartridge SlotAccepts various Brother TZe tape widths (e.g., 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Print/Cut MechanismPrints and automatically cuts labels
Function KeysFor accessing fonts, frames, symbols, and settings
Power SourceAC Adapter or optional batteries
Font StylesMultiple built-in fonts (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif, Script)
Font SizesSmall, Medium, Large, Extra Large
Label FramesVarious border styles for labels
Auto NumberingAutomatically generates sequential numbers

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place the unit on a clean, stable, flat surface.

  1. Insert Tape Cartridge: Open the tape compartment cover. Insert the starter tape cartridge with the tape end facing outward. 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 should illuminate.

WARNING! Do not touch the cutting blade. Keep fingers away from the tape exit slot during operation.

First-Time Use

Power on the unit; the LCD will display a welcome message or ready prompt.

  1. Test Print: Type a few characters using the keyboard. Press the PRINT button. The label will print and be automatically cut.
  2. Explore Functions: Press the FUNCTION key to access menus for Font, Size, Style, Frames, and Symbols.
  3. Load New Tape: To change tape color or width, power off, open the compartment, replace the cartridge, and close.

CAUTION! Use only genuine Brother TZe series tape cartridges. Incompatible tape may jam or damage the printer.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER, FUNCTION, PRINT, CUT (manual), Arrow Keys (Left/Right), BACKSPACE, SPACE.

Keyboard: Standard QWERTY layout with additional Symbol and Format keys.

Function Menu (accessed via FUNCTION key): - FONT: Select font style (Gothic, Sans Serif, etc.). - SIZE: Select character size (S, M, L, XL). - STYLE: Select Bold, Italic, Underline, or Outline. - FRAME: Choose a border for your label. - SYMBOL: Insert special symbols and icons. - SETUP: Access system settings like auto power-off.

Creating Labels

Basic steps to create and print a standard label.

  1. Power on the P Touch 1180.
  2. Type your desired text using the keyboard. Use the Arrow keys to move the cursor.
  3. Press FUNCTION to apply formatting (Font, Size, Style, Frame).
  4. Preview your text on the LCD display.
  5. Press the PRINT button. The label will print and automatically cut.
  6. Peel the backing from the printed label and apply it to a clean, dry surface.

Tip: Press and hold the PRINT button for continuous printing of multiple copies of the same label.

Advanced Functions

Utilizing the full capabilities of your label maker.

  1. Auto Numbering: Access via FUNCTION > SYMBOL > NUM. Enter starting number and quantity.
  2. Sequential Labels: Create a series of labels (e.g., Box 1, Box 2) using the numbering function.
  3. Text Alignment: Use the SPACE key and Arrow keys to center or align text.
  4. Manual Cut: Press the CUT button to cut the tape without printing or to cut a partially printed label.
  5. Memory Function: The unit may retain the last label created when powered off (model dependent).

WARNING! Do not pull the tape out manually. Always use the PRINT or CUT function.

Care & Maintenance

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

Cleaning the Cutter: If tape residue builds up on the cutter blade, power off and use a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the blade edge. Allow to dry completely before use.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into the tape slot. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to interference that may cause undesired operation. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-267-8437.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerAdapter not connected/batteries deadEnsure adapter is firmly plugged into unit and wall outlet. If using batteries, replace with new ones.
Nothing printsTape cartridge not installed/emptyPower off, open cover, ensure tape cartridge is correctly inserted and has tape.
Print is faint or missingLow battery/dirty print headReplace batteries or use AC adapter. Clean print head with a dry cotton swab.
Tape jamIncorrect tape/worn cutterPower off, gently remove jammed tape. Ensure you are using Brother TZe tape.
Keys not respondingUnit locked/firmware issueTurn unit off and on again. If problem persists, perform a reset (see manual).

Reset: Turn off. Press and hold FUNCTION + PRINT while turning power on. Release keys after display lights.

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

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