Brother P-touch Model PT-2030 Manual

The Brother P-touch PT-2030 is a compact, portable electronic label maker designed for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, a variety of tape cassettes, and a built-in cutter. Powered by AC adapter or optional batteries, it allows for easy creation of durable, laminated labels. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, Tape cassette compartment, Cutter lever, AC adapter port, Battery compartment.

Installation & Power

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

1. Power Source: Connect the AC adapter to the port on the side of the unit, then plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.
2. Optional Batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries (not included) observing correct polarity.
3. Tape Loading: Open the cassette cover, insert a Brother TZe tape cassette, and close the cover until it clicks.

WARNING! Use only the specified AC adapter. Do not mix old and new batteries. Ensure tape cassette is correctly seated.

First-Time Setup

Power on the unit; the LCD will illuminate.

1. Set Language: Press the Function (F) key, then use the arrow keys to select LANGUAGE. Choose ENGLISH (default).
2. Set Units: In the same menu, select UNITS and choose INCH or MM for tape length measurement.
3. Test Print: Type a sample word and press PRINT to ensure proper tape feeding and printing.
4. Adjust Contrast: If the LCD is hard to read, press F key, then select LCD CONTRAST to adjust.

CAUTION! Do not force the cassette cover or cutter lever. Keep fingers away from the cutter blade.

Specifications

• Model: Brother P-touch PT-2030.
• Tape Compatibility: Brother TZe series laminated tape (3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm widths).
• Print Method: Thermal transfer.
• Fonts & Styles: Multiple fonts, sizes, styles (bold, underline, outline), frames, and symbols.
• Display: LCD with 1-line text preview.
• Power Source: AC adapter (included) or 6 x AA batteries (optional).
• Auto Power Off: Activates after 5 minutes of inactivity to save power.
• Operating Environment: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C), 20% to 80% humidity (non-condensing).

Controls and Functions

Access functions via the keyboard and Function (F) key menu.

Basic Keys: Power, Print, Space, Backspace, Shift, Caps, Arrows (Left/Right), F (Function).

Formatting (via F Key Menu): Font selection (Gothic, Script, Sans Serif), Size (Small, Normal, Large), Style (Bold, Underline, Outline), Frames (Various decorative borders), Symbols (Preloaded icons). Settings (via F Key Menu): Language, Units, Auto Power Off, LCD Contrast, Tape Width Detection. Print Options: Number of copies (1-9), Mirror printing, Half-cut mode (for certain tapes).

Loading Tape Cassettes

Supports Brother TZe series laminated tape cassettes.

1. Ensure the power is ON.
2. Press the release button and open the cassette cover fully.
3. Insert the tape cassette with the tape end feeding toward the cutter side and the Brother logo facing up.
4. Gently close the cover until it clicks securely.
5. The unit will automatically detect the tape width. The available font sizes will adjust accordingly.

Tip: Always use genuine Brother TZe tape cassettes for optimal performance and to avoid jams.

Creating Labels

Create basic to formatted labels in a few steps.

1. Enter Text: Use the QWERTY keyboard to type your label text. Use Space and Backspace as needed.
2. Format Text: Press the F key, then use arrows to select FONT, SIZE, or STYLE. Press OK to apply.
3. Add Frames/Symbols: Press F key, select FRAMES or SYMBOLS, choose your design, press OK.
4. Preview: Check the LCD display for your formatted label.
5. Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will be fed out and laminated.
6. Cut: After printing, push the cutter lever forward firmly to cut the tape.

WARNING! Do not pull the tape out manually. Always use the cutter lever. Keep hands clear of the exit slot during printing.

Advanced Functions

Multiple Copies: Before printing, press the Number key (1-9) to set quantity, then press PRINT.
Serial Numbering: Use the F key menu to access NUMBERING for creating sequential labels.
Mirror Printing: Enable in F key menu under PRINT OPTIONS for creating labels to view from the reverse side (e.g., for glass).
Memory Function: The unit retains the last label created if power is lost (when using AC adapter).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug adapter/remove batteries before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Use a cotton swab to gently clean the tape exit path if debris is present.

CAUTION! Never use liquids, aerosols, or abrasive cleaners. Do not attempt to lubricate or disassemble the cutter mechanism.

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 at 1-877-267-8437.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Remove batteries/unplug adapter for 2 minutes, then reconnect power.

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