Brother P-touch D400 Manual

The Brother P-touch D400 is a versatile desktop electronic label maker featuring a full keyboard, large LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various tape cassettes (including laminated), built-in templates, auto-numbering, sequential labeling, memory storage, and a built-in cutter. It connects via USB for PC connectivity with P-touch Editor software. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Creating Labels 7. Advanced Functions 8. PC Connectivity 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Keyboard, LCD Display, Tape Cassette Slot, Cutter Lever, Power Connector, USB Port.

Feature	Description
Full Keyboard	QWERTY layout with function keys for easy text entry
Large LCD Display	Shows text, formatting, and preview before printing
Tape Cassette Slot	Accepts various Brother TZe tape widths (6mm, 9mm, 12mm, etc.)
Built-in Cutter	Manual lever for cutting labels after printing
Power Connector	For AC adapter connection
USB Port	For connecting to a computer
Function (F1-F4) Keys	Quick access to formatting options
Shift Key	Accesses secondary functions and symbols
Print Key	Initiates label printing
Power Key	Turns the label maker on/off

Installation & Setup

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

Insert batteries or connect AC adapter: Use 6 AA batteries or plug in the included AC adapter.
Load tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with printed side facing out, close cover.
Power on: Press the POWER key. The LCD will illuminate.
Set language and units: Use the SETUP menu to select language (default ENGLISH) and measurement units.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cassettes. Incorrect tape may damage the printer.

First-Time Use

Power on the label maker; follow on-screen prompts.

Create a test label: Type "TEST" and press PRINT.
Adjust print density: In SETUP menu, select PRINT DENSITY for darker/lighter print.
Explore fonts and styles: Use FONT key to cycle through options; SIZE key to adjust.
Save a label: After creating, press MEMORY key to store for later use.

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of the cutter lever when operating.

Specifications

Model: Brother P-touch D400.
Display: Multi-line LCD with backlight.
Tape Compatibility: Brother TZe series laminated and non-laminated tapes (3.5mm to 12mm width).
Print Resolution: Standard resolution for clear text and symbols.
Connectivity: USB 2.0 for PC connection.
Power Source: 6 AA batteries or AC adapter (included).
Memory: Stores multiple label formats.
Supported Formats: Text, symbols, frames, auto-numbering, sequential labels.
Operating Temp: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).

Controls and Functions

Access functions via direct keys or MENU. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, FONT, SIZE, STYLE, FRAME, SYMBOL.

Menu Navigation: Use arrow keys to browse; ENTER to select; ESC to cancel.

Text Formatting: FONT (Arial, Times, etc.), SIZE (Small, Medium, Large), STYLE (Bold, Italic, Underline, Outline). Label Design: FRAME (add borders), SYMBOL (insert symbols), NUMBER (auto-numbering). Setup: Language, Units, Print Density, Auto Power Off, Memory Clear.

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, frames, and sequential printing.

Enter text: Type using keyboard; use SHIFT for symbols.
Format text: Select FONT, SIZE, STYLE as desired.
Add elements: Press FRAME or SYMBOL to insert.
Preview: View on LCD before printing.
Print: Press PRINT key. Label feeds out automatically.
Cut: Use manual cutter lever to separate label.
Peel & apply: Remove backing and apply label to surface.

Tip: For long labels, use the "Chain Print" function for continuous printing.

Advanced Functions

Auto-numbering: Create sequences (e.g., 1,2,3). Sequential Labels: Duplicate label with incremental text. Memory: Store up to 10 labels for quick recall. Templates: Built-in formats for common labels (file folders, name badges, etc.).

PC Connectivity

Connect via USB to use P-touch Editor software (included on CD or downloadable).

Install software: Run setup from CD or download from Brother website.
Connect label maker: Use USB cable; power on device.
Launch P-touch Editor: Design labels on PC with advanced layouts and graphics.
Send to printer: Click Print to output label from P-touch D400.

Note: Ensure correct drivers are installed for full functionality.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; do not use liquids or abrasives.

CAUTION! Keep tape slot and cutter area free of dust and adhesive residue.

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 1-877-267-8437.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Batteries/AC adapter	Check battery orientation; ensure AC adapter is plugged in securely.
Nothing prints	Tape cassette/cover	Ensure tape is loaded correctly; cassette cover is fully closed.
Print is faint or missing	Print density/tape	Adjust PRINT DENSITY in setup; replace tape cassette if old.
LCD is blank	Power/contrast	Check power source; adjust LCD contrast in SETUP menu.
USB not recognized	Driver/connection	Reinstall P-touch Editor software; try different USB port/cable.

Reset: Hold down POWER and ESC keys for 5 seconds to reset settings.

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