brother p-touch label maker pt 2040 manual

The Brother P-touch PT-2040 is a versatile electronic label maker designed for creating durable, professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various tape widths, built-in label templates, a cutter, and is powered by AC adapter or optional batteries. 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. 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 Cassette, User Manual, Quick Start Guide.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full KeyboardQWERTY layout with function keys for easy text entry
Tape Cassette SystemSupports multiple tape widths (e.g., 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Built-in CutterManual cutter for precise label cutting
Fonts & StylesMultiple fonts, sizes, frames, and underline options
Power OptionsAC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries (optional)
Auto-Laminating TapesOptional laminated tapes for durability and protection
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels for quick recall
Preview ModeDisplays full label layout on screen before printing
Symbol LibraryIncludes common symbols and icons for labels

Unpacking and Setup

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

  1. Insert Tape Cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with adhesive side down, close cover.
  2. Connect Power: Plug AC adapter into power port and wall outlet, or insert 6 AA batteries.
  3. Power On: Press the POWER button. The LCD should illuminate.
  4. Set Language: Use the FUNCTION key to select language from menu (default is ENGLISH).

WARNING! Use only Brother-approved AC adapter and tape cassettes. Do not force cassette cover.

First-Time Use

Power on the device; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Create a Test Label: Type text using keyboard; press PRINT to print label.
  2. Adjust Settings: Use FUNCTION key to access font, size, style, and tape width settings.
  3. Cut Label: After printing, use manual cutter lever to cut label.
  4. Apply Label: Peel backing from printed label and apply to clean, dry surface.

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of cutter area. Store in a cool, dry place.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via keyboard and FUNCTION key. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, CUTTER lever, keyboard, LCD.

Key Functions: POWER (On/Off), PRINT (prints label), FUNCTION (accesses menus), ARROWS (navigation), DEL (delete), SPACE, SHIFT (capital letters/symbols).

Text Formatting: Font style, size, bold, underline, frames. Label Settings: Tape width, auto-cut on/off, mirror printing, sequential numbering. System: Language, contrast adjustment, memory management, reset.

Creating Labels

Basic label creation steps.

  1. Turn on device with POWER button.
  2. Type text using keyboard; use SHIFT for capitals, FUNCTION for symbols.
  3. Format text: Press FUNCTION, select FONT, SIZE, STYLE (bold, underline, frame).
  4. Preview: View label on LCD before printing.
  5. Print: Press PRINT. Label prints and advances automatically if auto-cut is on.
  6. Cut: If auto-cut is off, use manual cutter lever to cut label.
  7. Apply: Peel backing and apply label to desired surface.

Tip: Use laminated tapes for labels exposed to moisture or abrasion.

Advanced Functions

Utilize built-in features for specialized labels.

  1. Memory Labels: Save frequently used labels by pressing FUNCTION > MEMORY > SAVE.
  2. Sequential Numbering: Print labels with consecutive numbers (e.g., 1, 2, 3).
  3. Mirror Printing: Print reversed text for application on glass or transparent surfaces.
  4. Symbols: Access symbol library via FUNCTION > SYMBOL.
  5. Auto-Format: Use built-in templates for common labels (file folders, name badges).
  6. Tape Width Detection: Device automatically detects inserted tape width.

WARNING! Do not use non-Brother tapes; they may jam or damage print mechanism.

Care & Maintenance

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

  1. Exterior: Wipe with dry cloth to remove dust.
  2. Cutter Blade: Keep free of adhesive residue; clean gently with dry cotton swab if needed.
  3. Tape Path: Ensure no tape debris remains inside cassette area.
  4. Storage: Store in protective case if available; avoid extreme temperatures.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into tape slot or cutter. Do not disassemble 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. This product uses thermal printing technology; labels are smudge-proof and water-resistant when using laminated tapes.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBatteries/AC adapterCheck battery installation; ensure AC adapter is securely connected; replace batteries if weak.
LCD blank or dimPower/contrast settingsAdjust contrast via FUNCTION > SETTINGS > CONTRAST; ensure power is on.
Tape not feedingCassette not installed correctlyOpen cover, reinsert tape cassette properly; ensure no jams.
Print quality poorLow batteries/dirty print headReplace batteries; clean print head with dry cotton swab (power off).
Text not printingTape end/incorrect settingsCheck if tape is exhausted; verify tape width setting matches cassette.
Cutter not workingManual lever obstructionEnsure no tape jam; operate lever firmly but gently.

Reset: Press FUNCTION > SETTINGS > RESET to restore default settings.

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

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