Brother PT 1700 Label Maker Manual

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.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking and Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Keyboard 6. Loading Label Tape 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with keyboard and display, AC power adapter, starter roll of label tape, user manual.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
QWERTY KeyboardFull layout for easy text entry
Tape Cassette SlotAccepts Brother TZe tape cassettes in various widths and colors
Print/Cut MechanismAutomatically prints and cuts labels to length
Power SourceAC adapter (included) or optional rechargeable battery pack
Function KeysFor accessing fonts, frames, symbols, and settings
Font StylesMultiple built-in fonts (e.g., Sans Serif, Script, Gothic)
Frames & BordersDecorative borders to enhance labels
Symbol LibraryIncludes arrows, warning signs, icons, and more
Auto-CutOption to automatically cut after each label

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all items from the box and inspect for damage.

  1. Place the label maker on a clean, stable, and flat surface.
  2. Connect the AC power adapter to the DC IN jack on the side of the unit and plug it into a standard wall outlet.
  3. The power indicator light should turn on. Allow the unit to charge if using battery mode for the first time.

WARNING! Use only the Brother AC adapter provided. Using an incorrect adapter may damage the unit.

First-Time Use

Power on the unit using the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate.

  1. Load a tape cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape, and close the cover until it clicks.
  2. Set the language: Press the FUNCTION key, then use the arrow keys to select "Language" and choose your preference.
  3. Set the tape width: The unit usually auto-detects the tape width. Verify it on the display.
  4. Type a test label: Use the keyboard to enter text. Press PRINT to produce your first label.

CAUTION! Do not touch the print head or cutter mechanism inside the tape compartment.

Specifications

Controls and Keyboard

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.

Loading Label Tape

Use only genuine Brother TZe 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 coming from the bottom of the roll. Align the cassette guides.
  4. Gently pull the tape end forward to the cutting blade slot.
  5. Close the cover firmly until it clicks into place.
  6. The display will show the detected tape width and color.

Tip: For laminated tapes, ensure the glossy (laminate) side faces away from the print head.

Creating Labels

Basic text label creation process.

  1. Type your text using the keyboard. It appears on the LCD.
  2. Format text: Use FONT, SIZE, and STYLE keys to change appearance.
  3. Add a frame: Press FRAME and scroll through options with arrow keys. Press ENTER to select.
  4. Add a symbol: Press SYMBOL, choose a category, select the symbol, press ENTER.
  5. Preview: The LCD shows the final label layout.
  6. Print: Press PRINT. The label prints and automatically advances.
  7. Cut: If Auto-Cut is OFF, press the CUT button to cut the label. If ON, it cuts automatically.

WARNING! Never pull the tape out manually while printing. Always use the CUT button.

Advanced Functions

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.

Care & Maintenance

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.

Regulatory Information

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.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power / Display blankAdapter not connected / Battery deadEnsure adapter is firmly plugged into unit and wall outlet. Charge or replace battery.
Nothing prints / Tape feeds but is blankTape installed incorrectly / Print head dirtyReinstall tape correctly with laminate side out. Clean print head with dry cotton swab.
Keys do not respondUnit locked / Low batteryPress and hold ESC for 3 seconds to unlock. Connect to power adapter.
Tape jams or does not feedObstructed cutter / Tape cassette damagedOpen cover and clear any tape debris. Use a new, undamaged tape cassette.
Print quality is poor (faded, streaks)Low battery / Dirty print head / Old tapeUse full power from adapter. Clean print head. Use fresh tape cassette.
"Tape Error" messageWrong tape type / Cassette not seatedUse 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

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