Brother P-touch PT-D400 Manual

The Brother P-touch PT-D400 is a versatile desktop label printer designed for professional and office use. It features a high-resolution LCD display, QWERTY keyboard, compatibility with various tape widths (up to 24mm), multiple fonts and frames, a wide range of symbol libraries, and the ability to print from a connected PC. It supports both laminated and non-laminated tapes for durable, smudge-proof labels. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Operation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Display 6. Creating Labels 7. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayHigh-resolution screen for previewing labels and navigating menus
QWERTY KeyboardFull keyboard for easy text entry and function access
Tape CompatibilitySupports laminated and non-laminated tapes from 6mm to 24mm wide
Print ResolutionHigh-quality printing for sharp text and graphics
Fonts & StylesMultiple built-in fonts, sizes, styles (bold, italic, underline), and frames
Symbol LibraryWide selection of symbols for organization, safety, and identification
PC ConnectivityUSB port for printing labels from a computer using P-touch Editor software
Auto-CutterBuilt-in cutter for automatic or manual label cutting
Power SourceAC adapter (included) for mains power operation
Memory FunctionSave frequently used label formats for quick access

Unpacking and Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place the printer on a stable, flat surface.

  1. Install the tape cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape cassette with the tape end facing the exit slot, and close the cover firmly.
  2. Connect the power: Plug the AC adapter into the DC IN jack on the printer, then plug the adapter into a standard electrical outlet.
  3. Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate and display the initial screen.
  4. Set language and units: Use the keyboard and menu to select your preferred language and measurement units (mm/inch).

WARNING! Use only Brother-approved TZe tape cassettes and the provided AC adapter. Do not place near heat sources or in direct sunlight.

First-Time Operation

After setup, create your first label to familiarize yourself with the basic functions.

  1. Enter text: Using the QWERTY keyboard, type your desired label text. It will appear on the LCD.
  2. Format text: Use the FUNCTION key along with the arrow keys to select fonts, adjust size, apply styles (Bold, Italic, Underline), or add frames.
  3. Preview: The LCD shows a WYSIWYG (What You See Is What You Get) preview of your label.
  4. Print: Press the PRINT key. The printer will feed and automatically cut the label.
  5. Apply label: Peel the backing from the printed label and apply it to a clean, dry surface.

CAUTION! Do not touch the print head. Keep fingers and objects away from the tape exit slot during printing.

Specifications

Controls and Display

Front Panel: POWER, FUNCTION, PRINT, FEED, CUT, arrow keys, ESC, and alphanumeric keyboard.

LCD Icons: Battery indicator (if applicable), tape width, font style, number of labels, print mode.

Main Menu (accessed via FUNCTION key): Font, Size, Style, Frame, Symbol, Numbering, Memory, Setup (Language, Units, Auto Power Off).

Creating Labels

Basic and advanced label creation steps.

  1. Text Entry: Type directly using the keyboard. Use SHIFT for capitals and symbols.
  2. Editing: Use the arrow keys to move the cursor. DEL deletes characters to the left; BACKSPACE deletes to the right.
  3. Formatting: Press FUNCTION, then navigate to Font, Size, or Style. Select options with ENTER.
  4. Adding Elements: Use FUNCTION > Frame to add borders, or FUNCTION > Symbol to insert from the library.
  5. Print Options: Before printing, press FUNCTION > Print Options to set quantity, mirror printing, or half-cut mode.
  6. Printing: Press PRINT. For multiple copies, enter the quantity when prompted.

Tip: Use the preview function to check layout before printing to conserve tape.

Advanced Functions

Utilize the PT-D400's powerful features for efficient labeling.

  1. Serial Numbering: Automatically print labels with incremental numbers (e.g., Asset-001, Asset-002).
  2. Memory Storage: Save up to 30 frequently used label formats for instant recall.
  3. PC Printing: Install P-touch Editor software from the provided CD or Brother website. Connect via USB to design complex labels on your computer.
  4. Bar Codes: Create standard 1D barcodes (Code 39, UPC, EAN) directly from the keyboard.
  5. Vertical Text: Print text vertically for specific applications like spine labels.
  6. Tape Margins: Set full-cut, half-cut, or chain printing (no cut between labels).

WARNING! Always use the correct tape width setting in the menu to match the installed cassette. Mismatched settings can cause jams.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug the power adapter before cleaning.

  1. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
  2. Print Head: If print quality declines, clean the print head with a dry cotton swab. Gently wipe the silver metallic strip.
  3. Roller: Use a clean, dry cloth to remove any adhesive residue from the feed roller.
  4. Tape Cassette: Store unused cassettes in their original packaging in a cool, dry place.

CAUTION! Never use liquids or sprays directly on the printer. Do not attempt to disassemble the unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Compliance: This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference. CE Mark: Conforms to European Union directives. Brother Industries, Ltd., Nagoya, Japan. Copyright and trademarks are property of Brother Industries, Ltd. and Brother International Corporation. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact your local Brother customer service center.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power / LCD blankPower connectionEnsure AC adapter is firmly plugged into printer and wall outlet. Press POWER button.
Poor print qualityDirty print head / old tapeClean the print head. Ensure tape cassette is not expired or damaged.
Tape jam or not feedingIncorrect installation / damaged cassetteOpen cover, remove and reinsert tape cassette correctly. Check for obstructions.
Wrong characters printedKeyboard layout settingCheck and change the keyboard layout in the Setup menu (e.g., QWERTY, AZERTY).
PC not detectedUSB cable / driverEnsure USB cable is securely connected. Install or reinstall P-touch Editor software/drivers.
"No Tape" errorCassette not detected / end of tapeReinsert cassette. Replace with a new tape cassette if empty.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, turn off the printer. Hold down the FUNCTION and PAUSE keys while turning it on. Release when "Initialize All" appears.

Service: For issues not resolved above, visit www.brother.com or contact Brother customer support.

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