Brother PT 300 Instruction Manual

The Brother PT 300 is a compact, portable electronic labeler designed for home and office use. It features a full keyboard, multiple font styles and sizes, various frame/border options, and supports a wide range of Brother TZ tape cassettes. It is powered by 6 AA batteries or an optional AC adapter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Full QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, Tape cassette compartment, Print/Cut mechanism, Power source compartment.

Installation & Power

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a clean, flat surface.

1. Install Batteries: Open battery compartment on the back, insert 6 AA batteries observing correct polarity (+/-).
2. Connect AC Adapter (Optional): Plug the AD-24 adapter into the DC IN jack on the side of the unit, then into a wall outlet.
3. Load Tape Cassette: See section 6 for detailed instructions.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZ tape cassettes. Using incompatible tapes may cause jamming. Ensure batteries are inserted correctly to avoid damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on the labeler by pressing the "ON" key. The LCD will illuminate.

1. Set Language: Press the "CODE" key, then use the arrow keys to select your language (e.g., ENG). Press "ENTER".
2. Set Tape Width: The unit usually auto-detects the loaded tape width. Verify it matches the display.
3. Test Print: Type a simple word (e.g., "TEST") and press the "PRINT" lever to create your first label.
4. Adjust Print Darkness: If text is too light or dark, press "SHIFT" then "DARKNESS" to cycle through settings.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from the print/cut mechanism while it is operating.

Specifications

• Model: Brother PT-300.
• Tape Compatibility: Brother TZ series laminated tapes (6mm, 9mm, 12mm widths).
• Power Supply: 6 AA batteries (Alkaline or Ni-MH) or optional AC adapter AD-24 (6V DC).
• Display: 1-line LCD with backlight (on some models).
• Character Capacity: Up to 50 characters per label (depending on font size).
• Fonts: 4 fonts (Standard, Script, Block, Ornate).
• Font Sizes: 2 sizes (Normal, Large).
• Frames/Borders: 10+ decorative styles.
• Auto Power Off: Activates after approximately 5 minutes.
• Operating Temperature: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or "SHIFT" + key combinations.

Main Keys: ON, OFF, SHIFT, CODE, SPACE, DEL, BS (Backspace), Arrow Keys (Left/Right), ENTER.

Function Keys (with SHIFT): FONT (cycle fonts), SIZE (toggle Normal/Large), FRAME (select border style), MIRROR (toggle mirror print), UNDERLINE (toggle on/off), DARKNESS (adjust print density), AUTO (print multiple copies).

Print/Cut Lever: Press down fully to print and automatically cut the tape.

Loading Tape Cassettes

Ensure the power is ON.

1. Open the cassette cover by pressing the release button and lifting the lid.
2. Insert a Brother TZ tape cassette with the tape coming from the bottom of the spool. Align the cassette guides.
3. Pull the tape tip gently and guide it under the tape guide and through the exit slot.
4. Close the cassette cover firmly until it clicks.
5. The display will show the tape width (e.g., "TZ 12mm").

Tip: For best results, use a new tape cassette. Do not force the cover closed.

Creating Labels

Supports text labels with various formatting.

1. Type Text: Use the keyboard to enter your desired label text.
2. Format Text: Use SHIFT + FONT, SIZE, FRAME, etc., to apply formatting. The changes appear on the LCD.
3. Preview Length: The number in the lower right of the display indicates the label length in mm.
4. Print: Press the PRINT lever down firmly and smoothly. The label will print and be cut automatically.
5. Apply Label: Peel the backing paper from the printed label and apply to a clean, dry surface.
6. Multiple Copies: Before printing, press SHIFT + AUTO and enter the number of copies (1-9).

WARNING! Do not pull the tape during printing/cutting. Allow the mechanism to complete its cycle.

Advanced Features

Special Symbols: Press CODE, then enter a 2-digit number (see code list in manual appendix) to insert symbols like ©, ®, electrical symbols, etc.

Sequential Numbering: Type the base text and number (e.g., "ITEM 1"). Press SHIFT + AUTO, then use the arrow keys to define the increment and number of labels.

Memory Function: The unit retains the last label created in memory when powered off, allowing for easy reprinting.

Care & Maintenance

Turn OFF and remove batteries/adapter before cleaning.

1. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use solvents or abrasive cleaners.
2. Print Head: If print quality declines, clean the thermal print head with a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Let dry completely.
3. Tape Path: Gently remove any adhesive residue or tape fragments from the cutting blade and guide with tweezers.
4. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Remove batteries if not used for an extended period.

CAUTION! Never immerse the unit in water or other liquids. Do not touch the print head while it is hot after printing.

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 product conforms to applicable product safety standards.

Troubleshooting

Reset: To restore factory defaults, turn unit OFF. Press and hold "SHIFT" + "ON" until "ALL CLEAR" appears.

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