brother p touch label maker manual pt 2040

The Brother P-touch PT-2040 is a versatile electronic label maker designed for creating professional, durable labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various frame and symbol options, automatic tape cutting, and compatibility with multiple TZe tape cassettes. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Full QWERTY keyboard, Backlit LCD display, Tape cassette compartment, Power adapter port, AC adapter, Cutting blade, Print key.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full KeyboardFor easy text entry and navigation
Tape Cassette SystemAccepts 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm, 18mm, and 24mm TZe tapes
Automatic CutterCuts tape automatically after printing (optional setting)
Multiple Fonts & SizesOffers various fonts and point sizes for customization
Frames & SymbolsIncludes decorative frames and over 100 symbols
Power SourceAC adapter or optional battery pack
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels
Print KeyInitiates printing process
Function KeyAccesses special features and settings

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Insert tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with printed side facing out, close cover.
  2. Connect power: Plug the AC adapter into the power port and then into a wall outlet.
  3. Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate.
  4. Install batteries (optional): Insert 6 AA batteries if using portable operation.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cassettes. Do not force the cassette compartment closed.

First-Time Operation

Power on the device; the LCD will display a welcome message.

  1. Set language: Press FUNCTION, then use arrow keys to select LANGUAGE, choose ENGLISH (default).
  2. Set tape width: The device auto-detects tape width; confirm on screen.
  3. Create a test label: Type "TEST" and press PRINT to ensure proper operation.
  4. Adjust print darkness: Access settings via FUNCTION > PRINT DARKNESS for optimal results.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the cutting blade area during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via the FUNCTION key or direct buttons. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, FUNCTION, Arrow keys (Up/Down/Left/Right), BACKSPACE, SPACE, ALPHABET keys.

Keyboard: Standard QWERTY layout with number row and symbol keys.

Text Formatting: FONT (select style), SIZE (small/medium/large), STYLE (bold, underline, outline), ALIGN (left, center, right). Tape Settings: Width auto-detect, length adjustment, mirror printing, sequential numbering. System: Language, auto power off, print darkness, unit reset.

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, frames, and sequential numbering.

  1. Enter text: Type desired text using the keyboard.
  2. Format text: Use FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to customize appearance.
  3. Add frames/symbols: Press FRAME or SYMBOL key, browse and select.
  4. Preview: Text and formatting appear on the LCD.
  5. Print: Press PRINT key. The label will be printed and automatically cut if enabled.
  6. Peel and apply: Peel backing from printed label and apply to clean, dry surface.

Tip: Use the preview function to check layout before printing to conserve tape.

Advanced Features

Sequential Numbering: Print a series of numbered labels (e.g., 1, 2, 3). Mirror Printing: Create mirror-image text for application to the inside of glass or transparent surfaces. Memory Storage: Save up to 9 labels for quick recall. Auto Power Off: Conserves power after a period of inactivity.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth to wipe the exterior. Clean the cutting blade area gently with a soft brush if debris accumulates.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, aerosols, 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 1-877-467-4289. This product is designed for use in the United States and Canada.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/batteriesEnsure AC adapter is plugged in securely or install fresh batteries.
Nothing printsTape cassette/coverEnsure tape cassette is inserted correctly and cover is fully closed.
Faint or poor print qualityPrint darkness setting/tape typeAdjust PRINT DARKNESS in settings; ensure using genuine Brother TZe tape.
Text does not appear on LCDContrast settingAdjust LCD contrast via FUNCTION > CONTRAST.
Tape does not cut automaticallyAuto-cut settingEnable auto-cut via FUNCTION > CUTTER > AUTO.
Error message on LCDVarious (e.g., "NO TAPE")Refer to error code in manual; usually indicates tape issue or internal error.

Reset: Press and hold FUNCTION + POWER for 5 seconds to reset to factory defaults (memory will be cleared).

Service: 1-877-467-4289; www.brother-usa.com

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