Brother PT 1950 Manual

The Brother PT 1950 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for home, office, and light industrial use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of tape cassettes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Functions 5. Basic Operation 6. Advanced Features 7. Tape Cassettes 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Keyboard, LCD Display, Tape Cassette Compartment, Cutter Lever, Power Adapter Port, Battery Compartment.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full KeyboardQWERTY layout with function keys for special characters
Tape Cassette SystemAccepts 3.5mm to 12mm wide laminated tape cassettes
Automatic CutterManual lever for cutting printed tape
Power OptionsAC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries (not included)
Font Styles & SizesMultiple fonts and point sizes for customization
Frames & SymbolsBuilt-in decorative frames and symbols
Auto FormattingAutomatic text alignment and formatting options
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels
Preview ModeDisplays label layout before printing

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present.

  1. Insert Batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing polarity.
  2. Connect AC Adapter: Plug adapter into power port and wall outlet (optional).
  3. Install Tape Cassette: Open cassette door, insert tape with clear side facing out, close door.
  4. Power On: Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.

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

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys and on-screen menu. Front Panel: POWER, FUNCTION, SPACE, BACKSPACE, DEL, SHIFT, ARROW keys.

Function Keys: FONT (cycle fonts), SIZE (cycle sizes), FRAME (add decorative border), UNDERLINE/BOLD, ALIGN (left/center/right), SYMBOL (insert symbols).

Menu Navigation: Use arrow keys to navigate options, ENTER to select. Display Settings: Adjust contrast via FUNCTION + arrow keys. Tape Settings: Select tape width via FUNCTION + SIZE. Memory: Store/recall labels using MEMORY key.

Basic Operation

Creating and printing a basic label.

  1. Power on the unit and ensure tape is loaded.
  2. Type text using keyboard; see preview on LCD.
  3. Format text: Use FONT, SIZE, FRAME keys as desired.
  4. Preview: Check layout on display.
  5. Print: Press PRINT key; unit prints and advances tape.
  6. Cut: Use manual cutter lever to cut tape.
  7. Apply: Peel backing and apply label to surface.

Tip: Press PAUSE to stop printing mid-label if needed.

Advanced Features

Utilizing memory, sequential numbering, and special formats.

  1. Memory Storage: Type label, press MEMORY, choose slot (1-9) to save.
  2. Recall Memory: Press MEMORY, select slot, press ENTER to load.
  3. Sequential Numbering: Use NUMBER function to print sequences (e.g., 1-10).
  4. Text Effects: Combine underline, bold, and frames for emphasis.
  5. Symbol Library: Access symbols via SYMBOL key (arrows, warning signs, etc.).
  6. Mirror Printing: For application on inside of glass (select via FUNCTION menu).

Note: Some features may vary based on tape type.

Tape Cassettes

Supports Brother TZe series laminated tape cassettes.

Tape TypeWidthColor Options
Standard Laminated3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mmWhite, black, red, blue, yellow, etc.
Fluorescent6mm, 9mmPink, orange, green, yellow
Metallic6mmSilver, gold
Clear6mm, 12mmTransparent background

WARNING! Do not use non-Brother cassettes; may cause damage. Install tape correctly to avoid jams.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only; do not use liquids or abrasives.

  1. Exterior: Wipe with dry cloth to remove dust.
  2. Cutter Blade: Keep clean; use brush to remove adhesive residue.
  3. Print Head: Clean gently with cotton swab if print quality degrades.
  4. Storage: Store in cool, dry place; remove batteries if not used for extended period.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into tape slot; avoid extreme temperatures.

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 1-877-276-8437. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that it does not cause harmful interference.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries/loose adapterReplace batteries; ensure adapter plugged in securely.
Display blankContrast settingAdjust contrast via FUNCTION + arrow keys.
Tape not feedingCassette improperly loadedOpen door, reinsert cassette correctly.
Poor print qualityDirty print head/old tapeClean print head; replace tape cassette.
Keyboard not respondingUnit locked/low powerPress ESC to unlock; check battery level.
Memory not savingBatteries depletedReplace batteries before storing labels.

Reset: Remove batteries and adapter for 2 minutes to reset unit.

Service: 1-877-276-8437; www.brother-usa.com

Brother PT 1950 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025