Brother PT 2040 User Manual

The Brother PT 2040 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for creating professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of label tape cartridges. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Label Maker Unit, AC Power Adapter, Starter Label Tape Cartridge, User Manual.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all contents. Place the label maker on a clean, stable, and flat surface.

1. Insert Batteries (Optional): Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries (not included) for portable use.
2. Connect AC Adapter: Plug the adapter into the DC IN jack on the side of the unit, then plug into a standard 120V AC outlet.
3. Load Label Tape: Open the cassette cover, insert a Brother TZe tape cartridge with the tape coming from the bottom, and close the cover firmly.
4. Power On: Press the POWER button. The LCD display will light up.

WARNING! Use only the specified Brother AC adapter. Do not use near water or extreme heat.

First-Time Use

Power on the device; the display will show a welcome message or ready prompt.

1. Select Language: Press the FUNCTION (Fn) key, then use the arrow keys to select your language from the menu.
2. Set Tape Width: The device usually auto-detects the tape width. Confirm the setting shown on the display.
3. Create a Test Label: Type a few characters using the keyboard. Press the PRINT key to print, then the CUT key to cut the tape.
4. Adjust Print Darkness: If text is too light or dark, access the SETTINGS menu via the Fn key to adjust the "Print Density."

CAUTION! Keep fingers clear of the tape cutter mechanism when cutting.

Specifications

• Model: Brother PT-2040.
• Display: 1-line LCD with backlight (on some models).
• Tape Compatibility: Brother TZe series tapes (3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm widths).
• Power Supply: AC Adapter (included) or 6 x AA batteries (optional).
• Print Method: Thermal transfer.
• Character Capacity: Up to 200 characters per label (depends on font/tape size).
• Fonts: Multiple styles including Sans-serif, Script, Block.
• Label Length: Automatically adjusted or manually set up to 1 meter.
• Operating Environment: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C), 20% to 80% humidity (non-condensing).

Controls and Functions

Access menus and settings via the FUNCTION (Fn) key and the arrow keys on the keyboard.

Main Keys: POWER, PRINT, CUT, FUNCTION (Fn), SPACE, SHIFT, CAPS, DEL, ARROWS (Up/Down/Left/Right).

Text Formatting: Use Fn key with font keys (FONT), size keys (SIZE), style keys (BOLD, ITALIC, UNDERLINE). Label Design: Access frames (FRAME), underlines, and symbols via the Fn key. Settings: Language, Auto Power Off, Print Density, Unit (mm/inch), Tape Width setting. Memory: Store (Fn + MEMORY) and recall (MEMORY) up to 9 text entries.

Creating Labels

Basic steps for creating and printing a standard label.

1. Turn on the power and ensure tape is loaded.
2. Type your text using the keyboard. Use SHIFT for uppercase and symbols.
3. Format the text: Press Fn, then select FONT, SIZE, or STYLE using the arrow keys and ENTER.
4. Add a frame or underline: Press Fn, navigate to FRAME or UNDERLINE, select a style.
5. Preview: The formatted text appears on the LCD.
6. Print: Press the PRINT key. The label will be printed and fed out automatically.
7. Cut: Press the CUT key to cut the tape. For auto-cut, enable in settings (Fn > SETTINGS).

Tip: Press and hold the PRINT key for continuous printing of multiple copies.

Advanced Features

Utilizing the full functionality of your PT 2040.

1. Auto Numbering: Press Fn, then NUMBERING. Set start value, end value, and increment. The label maker will print a sequence of numbered labels.
2. Memory Function: To store text, type it, press Fn then MEMORY, select a memory number (M1-M9). To recall, press MEMORY, select the number.
3. Text Alignment: Align text Left, Center, or Right within the tape width using Fn > ALIGN.
4. Symbols & Special Characters: Press the SYMBOL key (or Fn + SYMBOL) to insert arrows, shapes, and icons.
5. Mirror Printing: For creating labels to be viewed from the opposite side (e.g., inside a window), enable in Fn > SETTINGS.

Maintenance & Care

Unplug the AC adapter and/or remove batteries before cleaning.

1. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
2. Keyboard & Display: Use a slightly damp cloth (water only), then dry immediately.
3. Tape Path: If tape jams or print quality degrades, open the cassette cover and gently remove any debris or tape fragments with tweezers.
4. Cutter Blade: Keep the cutter area clean. Do not touch the blade.
5. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Remove batteries if not used for extended periods.

CAUTION! Never immerse the unit in water or other liquids.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. "Brother" is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To restore factory defaults, press and hold Fn + POWER while turning on the unit (check manual for exact procedure).

Service: For repairs, contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437 or visit www.brother-usa.com.