Brother P-touch PT 2040 Manual

The Brother P-touch PT 2040 is a compact, user-friendly electronic label maker designed for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various tape widths, decorative frames, and a built-in cutter. Powered by AC adapter or optional batteries, it supports quick and easy label creation for files, cables, storage, and more. 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. Loading Tape Cassettes 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Full keyboard, LCD display, Tape cassette compartment, Cutter lever, AC adapter port, Battery compartment.

Feature	Description
LCD Display	Shows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full Keyboard	QWERTY layout with function keys for easy text entry
Tape Cassette Slot	Accepts laminated tape cassettes in various widths and colors
Built-in Cutter	Manual lever for cutting tape after printing
AC Adapter Port	For power via included adapter
Battery Compartment	Holds 6 AA batteries for portable use (optional)
Function Keys	Access fonts, sizes, frames, and special symbols
Print Key	Initiates printing of the label
Power Key	Turns the label maker on/off
Clear/Backspace	Deletes characters or clears the display

Unpacking and Setup

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

Insert batteries (optional): Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing polarity.
Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into port and into a standard 120V AC outlet.
Load tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with window facing up, close cover.
Power on: Press POWER key; LCD should illuminate.

WARNING! Keep small parts away from children. Use only Brother-approved tape cassettes and power adapter.

First-Time Use

Power on the label maker; follow basic steps to create your first label.

Select font and size: Press FONT key to cycle through options; SIZE key to adjust.
Type text: Use keyboard to enter desired label text; displayed on LCD.
Add frames or symbols: Press FRAME or SYMBOL keys to embellish label.
Print label: Press PRINT key; use cutter lever to cut tape after printing.

CAUTION! Do not touch cutter blade. Keep fingers clear during cutting operation.

Specifications

Model: Brother P-touch PT 2040.
Tape Widths Supported: 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm laminated tapes.
Display: LCD with 1-line text capacity.
Fonts: Multiple styles (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif) and sizes.
Power Source: AC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries (optional).
Print Speed: Approx. 10mm per second.
Memory: Stores last label text when powered off.
Dimensions: Compact, portable design.
Operating Environment: Standard room temperature and humidity.

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or combination presses. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, FONT, SIZE, FRAME, SYMBOL, arrow keys, CLEAR.

Key Functions: POWER (on/off), PRINT (prints label), FONT (cycles font styles), SIZE (cycles text sizes), FRAME (adds decorative borders), SYMBOL (inserts symbols), arrows (cursor navigation), CLEAR (deletes text).

Formatting: Adjust text alignment (left/center/right), auto-numbering, mirror printing, sequential numbering. Tape Settings: Select tape width via menu; machine auto-detects cassette width. System: Set auto-power off, contrast adjustment, unit reset.

Loading Tape Cassettes

Supports Brother TZ series laminated tape cassettes.

Turn off power before loading tape.
Open cassette cover by sliding latch.
Insert cassette with window facing up and arrow pointing toward print mechanism.
Close cover firmly until it clicks.
Power on; machine will recognize tape width automatically.

Tip: Ensure cassette is fully seated. Do not force cover closed.

Creating Labels

Basic label creation steps.

Power on and ensure tape is loaded.
Type text using keyboard; use arrow keys to move cursor.
Format text: Press FONT or SIZE to change appearance.
Add frames/symbols if desired.
Preview on LCD; adjust as needed.
Press PRINT; label prints automatically.
Use cutter lever to cut tape after printing completes.
Peel backing and apply label to surface.

WARNING! Do not pull tape during printing. Allow cutter to fully retract before touching blade area.

Advanced Functions

Auto-numbering: Create sequential labels. Mirror printing: For application on inside surfaces. Memory: Recall last label text after power cycle. Text effects: Bold, underline, outline. Tape saving mode: Prints with minimal margin.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth to wipe exterior. Clean cutter blade carefully with provided brush if tape residue accumulates.

CAUTION! Never use liquids, solvents, 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 © 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	Batteries/adapter	Check battery polarity; ensure adapter plugged in securely.
LCD blank or dim	Power/contrast	Check power source; adjust contrast via menu.
Tape not feeding	Cassette jam/loading	Open cover, remove and reinsert cassette; ensure no obstruction.
Poor print quality	Dirty print head/old tape	Clean print head with dry cloth; use fresh tape cassette.
Keys not responding	Low power/defect	Replace batteries or check adapter; reset unit.

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

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