Brother P-touch Instructions Manual PT-1290

The Brother P-touch PT-1290 is a compact, portable electronic labeler designed for creating durable, adhesive-backed labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY keyboard, multiple font styles and sizes, various frame and underline options, automatic tape cutting, and supports a range of TZe tape cassettes. Below are key sections for 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. Loading Tape Cassettes 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

FeatureDescription
KeyboardFull QWERTY layout for easy text entry
DisplayLCD screen for previewing label text and settings
Tape Cassette SlotAccepts Brother TZe series tape cassettes (6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Cutter LeverManual cutter for precise label length
Function KeysFor accessing fonts, frames, underline, and print options
Power SourceAC adapter or optional battery pack
Auto-Cut FeatureAutomatically cuts tape after printing (when enabled)
Multiple FontsSelection of font styles and sizes
Frames & UnderlinesDecorative borders and underline styles for labels
Print KeyInitiates printing of the created label

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Insert batteries or connect AC adapter: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries (not included) or plug in the AC adapter.
  2. Load the tape cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the starter TZe tape, and close the cover.
  3. Power on: Press the POWER button. The display should illuminate.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cassettes. Using incompatible tapes may damage the printer mechanism.

First-Time Use

Power on the labeler; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Set language: Press the FUNCTION key, then use the arrow keys to select your language.
  2. Set tape width: The machine will automatically detect the installed tape width.
  3. Create a test label: Type "TEST" and press PRINT to ensure proper operation.
  4. Adjust print darkness: If needed, use the FUNCTION menu to adjust print density.

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of the cutter lever area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or the FUNCTION menu. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, CUT (manual), FUNCTION, Font, Size, Frame, Underline keys, Arrow keys, Space, Backspace, Enter.

Function Menu: Accessed via FUNCTION key. Options include: Tape Width Setting, Print Density, Auto-Cut On/Off, Language, Factory Reset.

Text Formatting: Change font style (Gothic, Script), size (Small, Normal, Large), add frames (Box, Rounded, etc.), apply underlines (Single, Double). Print Settings: Set number of copies (1-9), mirror printing, sequential numbering.

Loading Tape Cassettes

Only use genuine Brother TZe tape cassettes.

  1. Power off the labeler.
  2. Open the cassette cover by pressing the release button.
  3. Insert the tape cassette with the tape end feeding towards the cutter slot. Ensure it clicks into place.
  4. Close the cassette cover firmly until it clicks.
  5. Power on. The labeler will recognize the tape width automatically.

Tip: Ensure the tape is not wrinkled or bent before loading.

Creating Labels

Basic steps for creating and printing a label.

  1. Type text: Use the keyboard to enter your label text. The display shows a preview.
  2. Format text: Use the FONT, SIZE, FRAME, and UNDERLINE keys to style your label.
  3. Preview: Check the display for accuracy.
  4. Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will print and advance.
  5. Cut: If Auto-Cut is off, manually press the CUT lever to cut the label.
  6. Peel and apply: Peel the backing from the printed label and apply to the desired surface.

WARNING! Do not pull the tape while printing. Allow the mechanism to feed tape automatically.

Advanced Functions

Sequential Numbering: Create a series of numbered labels. Access via FUNCTION > Numbering. Set start, end, and increment values. Mirror Printing: Prints text reversed for application on the inside of transparent surfaces. Access via FUNCTION > Mirror. Memory: Store frequently used labels (capacity varies by model). Use FILE key to save and recall.

Care & Maintenance

Power off and disconnect power before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Clean the print head with a cotton swab if print quality degrades (power off).

CAUTION! Never use liquids, solvents, or abrasive cleaners. Store in a cool, dry place.

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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries/loose adapterReplace batteries; ensure AC adapter is firmly connected.
Display is blankPower/BrightnessCheck power source; adjust display contrast in FUNCTION menu.
Tape does not feed/printTape jam/incorrect loadingPower off, open cover, remove and reload tape cassette correctly.
Print is faint or missingLow batteries/dirty print headReplace batteries; clean print head with dry cotton swab.
Keys not respondingUnit locked/defective keyPower cycle the unit; if persistent, contact service.
Tape cut unevenlyDull cutter blade/tape jamManually cut with scissors; ensure tape path is clear.

Reset: FUNCTION > Settings > Initialize > Yes to restore factory defaults.

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

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