brother p-touch model pt-2040 manual

The Brother P-touch Model PT-2040 is a versatile electronic labeling system featuring a QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various tape cassettes, automatic tape cutting, and a range of decorative frames and symbols. It supports AC adapter operation and optional battery power. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Power 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: QWERTY Keyboard, LCD Display, Tape Cassette Slot, Power Connector, Print/Cut Mechanism.

FeatureDescription
QWERTY KeyboardFor text input and function control
LCD DisplayShows text, settings, and preview
Tape Cassette SlotAccepts various Brother TZe tape widths
Power ConnectorFor AC adapter connection
Battery CompartmentFor optional 6xAA battery operation
Print/Cut ButtonInitiates printing and automatic cutting
Function (Fn) KeyAccesses secondary functions and settings
Arrow KeysNavigates menus and moves cursor
Font KeyCycles through available font styles
Size KeyAdjusts font size (Small, Standard, Large)

Installation

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

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Load tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with adhesive side down, close cover.
  3. Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into DC IN jack and wall outlet (optional).
  4. Power on: Press the POWER button.

WARNING! Use only specified Brother TZe tape cassettes. Incorrect tape may damage the printer.

First-Time Setup

Power on the P-touch; follow initial prompts on LCD.

  1. Set language: Press FUNCTION, then LANGUAGE to select (ENGLISH default).
  2. Set tape width: Machine auto-detects; confirm on display.
  3. Set auto power off: In SETTINGS menu, set duration (default 5 min).
  4. Test print: Type a sample label and press PRINT to verify operation.

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of print mechanism and cutter during operation.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access functions via direct keys or FUNCTION menu. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, FUNCTION, Font, Size, Arrow Keys, Space, Delete.

Function Menu: LANGUAGE, AUTO POWER OFF, MIRROR PRINT, CONTRAST, BUZZER, RESET.

Text Formatting: Font style, Size (S, M, L, XL), Style (Bold, Underline, Outline, Shadow). Label Features: Frames, Symbols, Sequential numbering, Multiple copies. Settings: Language, Auto power off (1-30 min), Display contrast, Key beep on/off.

Connecting to Power

Use AC adapter for extended use or batteries for portability.

  1. Batteries: Install 6 AA batteries in compartment.
  2. AC adapter: Connect to DC IN 12V jack; plug into 120V outlet.
  3. Power priority: Uses AC when connected; switches to batteries if unplugged.

Tip: For best performance, use alkaline batteries and remove if not used for extended periods.

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, frames, and sequential numbering.

  1. Enter text: Type using QWERTY keyboard.
  2. Format: Use FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to adjust appearance.
  3. Add frames/symbols: Press FRAME or SYMBOL key, select from list.
  4. Preview: Text appears on LCD as entered.
  5. Print: Press PRINT; label prints and cuts automatically.
  6. Multiple copies: Use COPY function before printing.
  7. Clear: Press ESC or DELETE to remove text.

WARNING! Do not pull tape during printing or cutting. Allow cycle to complete.

Advanced Functions

Sequential Numbering: Create labels with incrementing numbers. Mirror Printing: For application on inside surfaces (e.g., windows). Memory: Store frequently used labels (up to 9).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth; never use liquids or abrasives.

CAUTION! Keep tape path clean of adhesive residue. Store in 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. TZe is a trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerBatteries/AdapterCheck battery polarity; ensure adapter plugged in firmly.
No print/weak printTape/RibbonEnsure tape cassette inserted correctly; replace if exhausted.
Text not appearing on LCDContrast settingAdjust LCD contrast in FUNCTION menu.
Tape jamMisaligned tapePower off, open cover, remove tape carefully, reload.
Incorrect cuttingDull cutter bladeReplace cutter unit; do not use damaged tape.

Reset: Press FUNCTION + POWER simultaneously to restore factory defaults.

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

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