brother p-touch manual pt-20

The Brother P-touch PT-20 is a compact, portable electronic label maker designed for home and office use. It features a QWERTY-style keyboard, a clear LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various decorative tape frames, and supports a range of laminated tape cassettes. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

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

Unpacking and Setup

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

1. Insert tape cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the starter tape (white on clear), and close the cover.
2. Connect power: Plug the AC adapter into the unit and then into a standard 120V AC outlet.
3. Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD should illuminate.

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

First-Time Operation

Power on the unit; the LCD will show a welcome message or a blank label template.

1. Enter text: Use the keyboard to type your desired label text. It will appear on the LCD.
2. Format text: Use the FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to change the appearance of your text.
3. Preview: Check the LCD to ensure the label looks correct.
4. Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will be printed and fed out automatically.
5. Cut: Use the manual cutter lever to cut the label from the tape roll.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the cutter lever during operation.

Specifications

• Model: Brother P-touch PT-20.
• Tape Widths: Supports 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm laminated tapes.
• Display: Monochrome LCD, 1-line display.
• Fonts: Multiple built-in fonts (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif, Script).
• Print Resolution: Standard thermal transfer.
• Power Supply: AC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries (optional).
• Operating Environment: Standard room temperature and humidity.
• Dimensions: Compact, portable design.

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or the MODE key. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, Cutter Lever, Keyboard.

Key Functions: FONT (cycle through fonts), SIZE (small/medium/large), STYLE (bold, underline, outline), FRAME (select decorative borders), SYMBOL (insert symbols), CLEAR (delete).

Formatting: Adjust text alignment (left, center, right), use automatic length cutting, set number of copies. Settings: Unit of measurement (inch/mm), power save timer, contrast adjustment for LCD.

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, sequential numbering, and decorative frames.

1. Turn on the power and ensure a tape cassette is loaded.
2. Type your text using the keyboard.
3. Press FONT, SIZE, or STYLE to format the text as desired.
4. Press FRAME to add a border around the text if needed.
5. Press PRINT. Select the number of copies if prompted.
6. After printing, use the cutter lever to sever the label.
7. Peel off the backing and apply the label.

Tip: Use the preview on the LCD to avoid wasting tape.

Advanced Features

Sequential Numbering: Create a series of numbered labels. Mirror Printing: Print text in reverse for application on transparent surfaces. Memory Function: Store frequently used labels for quick recall.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Clean the cutter blade gently with a cotton swab if adhesive residue builds up.

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 and trademarks owned by Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Remove batteries/unplug adapter for 60 seconds to reset unit.

Service: Contact Brother Customer Support or visit www.brother-usa.com.