The Brother PT 1700 is a compact, portable electronic label maker designed for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY-style keyboard, a clear LCD display, a variety of built-in fonts, frames, and symbols, multiple label tape widths, and a rechargeable battery option. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Key components: Main unit with keyboard and display, AC power adapter, starter roll of label tape, user manual.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| LCD Display | Shows text, symbols, and formatting before printing |
| QWERTY Keyboard | Full layout for easy text entry |
| Tape Cassette Slot | Accepts Brother TZe tape cassettes in various widths and colors |
| Print/Cut Mechanism | Automatically prints and cuts labels to length |
| Power Source | AC adapter (included) or optional rechargeable battery pack |
| Function Keys | For accessing fonts, frames, symbols, and settings |
| Font Styles | Multiple built-in fonts (e.g., Sans Serif, Script, Gothic) |
| Frames & Borders | Decorative borders to enhance labels |
| Symbol Library | Includes arrows, warning signs, icons, and more |
| Auto-Cut | Option to automatically cut after each label |
Remove all items from the box and inspect for damage.
WARNING! Use only the Brother AC adapter provided. Using an incorrect adapter may damage the unit.
Power on the unit using the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate.
CAUTION! Do not touch the print head or cutter mechanism inside the tape compartment.
Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, CUT (manual), FUNCTION, 4-direction arrow pad, ESC, SPACE, DEL.
Keyboard: Standard QWERTY layout with number row. Special keys: FONT, SIZE, STYLE, FRAME, SYMBOL, UNDERLINE, ALIGN.
Function Menu (accessed via FUNCTION key): Language, Auto-Cut (On/Off), Tape Width, Power Save timer, Reset to factory defaults.
Use only genuine Brother TZe tape cassettes.
Tip: For laminated tapes, ensure the glossy (laminate) side faces away from the print head.
Basic text label creation process.
WARNING! Never pull the tape out manually while printing. Always use the CUT button.
Serial Numbering: Create a sequence of numbered labels. Access via FUNCTION > Numbering.
Mirror Printing: For creating labels to be viewed from the opposite side (e.g., inside windows). Access via FUNCTION > Mirror.
Power Save: Unit automatically powers down after a period of inactivity. Adjust timer in FUNCTION menu.
Memory: Store frequently used text phrases for quick recall.
Unplug the adapter before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. For stubborn marks, slightly dampen the cloth with water. Do not use alcohol, solvents, or abrasive cleaners.
Cleaning the Cutter: If label residue builds up on the cutter blade, use a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the blade edge. Allow to dry completely before use.
CAUTION! Never immerse the unit in water or any liquid. Keep away from extreme heat, cold, and dust.
FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. This product meets applicable EU Directives. The crossed-out wheelie bin symbol indicates separate collection of waste electrical equipment (WEEE). For proper disposal and recycling information, contact your local waste management authority. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| No power / Display blank | Adapter not connected / Battery dead | Ensure adapter is firmly plugged into unit and wall outlet. Charge or replace battery. |
| Nothing prints / Tape feeds but is blank | Tape installed incorrectly / Print head dirty | Reinstall tape correctly with laminate side out. Clean print head with dry cotton swab. |
| Keys do not respond | Unit locked / Low battery | Press and hold ESC for 3 seconds to unlock. Connect to power adapter. |
| Tape jams or does not feed | Obstructed cutter / Tape cassette damaged | Open cover and clear any tape debris. Use a new, undamaged tape cassette. |
| Print quality is poor (faded, streaks) | Low battery / Dirty print head / Old tape | Use full power from adapter. Clean print head. Use fresh tape cassette. |
| "Tape Error" message | Wrong tape type / Cassette not seated | Use only Brother TZe tapes. Open and close cassette cover firmly. |
Reset: FUNCTION > Settings > Initialize. This will restore factory defaults and clear memory.
Service: 1-877-276-8437; www.brother-usa.com