brother p touch label maker pt 1280 manual

The Brother P-touch PT-1280 is a versatile electronic label maker designed for creating durable, laminated labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full QWERTY keyboard, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of tape cassettes. The PT-1280 prints on laminated tape up to 12mm wide, offers automatic tape cutting, and includes functions for serial numbering, mirror printing, and memory storage. 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 Keyboard 6. Loading Tape Cassettes 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Label maker unit, AC power adapter, starter tape cassette, user manual.

Feature	Description
Print Width	Supports tape up to 12mm (1/2 inch) wide
Keyboard	Full QWERTY layout with function keys
Display	LCD screen for text preview and settings
Tape Cassette	Easy-load cassette system with multiple color options
Automatic Cutter	Cuts tape automatically after printing
Fonts & Styles	Multiple fonts, sizes, frames, and underline styles
Memory Function	Stores frequently used labels
Power Source	AC adapter or optional battery pack
Serial Numbering	Prints sequential numbers automatically
Mirror Printing	Prints reversed text for application on glass or transparent surfaces

Unpacking and Setup

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

Connect power: Plug the AC adapter into the power jack on the side of the unit, then into a wall outlet.
Load tape cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape cassette with the tape end facing the cutter, and close the cover.
Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD display will light up.
Set language: Use the FUNCTION key to access the setup menu and select your language.

WARNING! Use only the provided AC adapter. Do not force the tape cassette or cover.

First-Time Operation

After setup, create your first label.

Type text: Use the QWERTY keyboard to enter your desired label text.
Format text: Use the FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to change appearance.
Preview: Check the LCD screen for a preview of your label.
Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will print and be automatically cut.
Apply label: Peel off the backing and apply the label to a clean, dry surface.

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of the cutter area during printing.

Specifications

Model: Brother P-touch PT-1280.
Tape Width: 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm (cassette dependent).
Print Speed: Approx. 10mm per second.
Display: 2-line LCD with 15-character display.
Fonts: 5 fonts, 6 styles (bold, outline, shadow, etc.).
Character Sets: Multiple languages supported.
Memory: Stores up to 9 frequently used labels.
Power Supply: AC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries (optional).
Dimensions: Approx. 7.5" (W) x 3.5" (H) x 6.3" (D).
Weight: Approx. 2.2 lbs (with batteries).

Controls and Keyboard

Access functions via the front panel keys. Main Keys: POWER, PRINT, FONT, SIZE, STYLE, FRAME, UNDERLINE, FUNCTION, CURSOR arrows, DEL, SPACE, SHIFT, CODE.

Function Key (FUNC): Accesses secondary functions like memory, serial numbering, mirror print, and setup menus.

Text Formatting: Change font (Gothic, Sans Serif, Script), size (Small, Medium, Large), style (Bold, Outline, Shadow, Italic, Underline, Frame). Advanced: Serial numbering (set start, end, increment), Mirror printing (for glass), Memory (store/recall labels). Setup: Language, auto power off, tape width detection.

Loading Tape Cassettes

Supports Brother TZ series laminated tape cassettes.

Power off the unit.
Open the cassette cover by pressing the release button.
Insert the cassette with the tape end feeding towards the cutter slot and the Brother logo facing up.
Gently close the cover until it clicks into place.
Power on. The unit will automatically detect the tape width.

Tip: Always use genuine Brother tape cassettes for optimal performance.

Creating Labels

Basic label creation steps.

Press POWER to turn on.
Type your text using the keyboard.
Use FONT, SIZE, STYLE keys to format.
Add frames or underlines if desired.
Preview the layout on the LCD.
Press PRINT. The label prints and cuts automatically.
To print multiple copies, press PRINT then enter the number of copies (1-9).
Press the FEED key to advance tape without printing.

WARNING! Do not pull the tape during printing or cutting.

Advanced Functions

Memory: Press FUNC then MEMORY to store current text (up to 9 labels). Serial Numbering: Press FUNC then NUM to set start, end, and increment values. Mirror Printing: Press FUNC then MIRROR for reversed text. Auto Power Off: Enabled by default after 5 minutes of inactivity.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Clean the cutter blade occasionally with a soft brush. Store in a cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or aerosols. Avoid getting dust or adhesive residue inside the unit.

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	Power connection/batteries	Ensure AC adapter is plugged in securely or install fresh batteries.
Nothing prints	Tape cassette/cover	Ensure tape cassette is loaded correctly and cover is fully closed.
Print is faint or missing	Tape cartridge low/print head dirty	Replace tape cassette; clean print head with dry cotton swab.
Tape does not feed	Tape jam/cutter obstruction	Open cover and clear any jammed tape; ensure cutter moves freely.
Wrong characters appear	Language setting	Press FUNC, then use arrow keys to select correct language in setup.

Reset: Remove batteries/unplug AC adapter for 2 minutes to reset.

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