Brother PT 400 Label Maker Manual

The Brother PT-400 is a compact, portable electronic label maker designed for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY-style 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.

Features at a Glance

Key components: QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, Tape cassette slot, Power adapter port, Cut button, Function keys.

Installation & Power

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

1. Power Options: Insert 6 AA batteries into the compartment OR connect the included AC adapter to the port and a wall outlet.
2. Insert Tape Cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape with the printable side facing down, and close the cover until it clicks.
3. Power On: Press the POWER button. The LCD will illuminate.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cassettes. Using incompatible tapes may damage the printer mechanism.

First-Time Setup

Power on the label maker; follow these initial steps.

1. Set Language: Press the FUNCTION key, then use the arrow keys to select your language (e.g., ENGLISH).
2. Set Tape Width: The device usually auto-detects the tape width. Confirm it matches the loaded cassette on the LCD.
3. Test Print: Type a simple word (e.g., "TEST") and press the PRINT button to ensure proper operation.
4. Adjust Contrast: If the LCD is hard to read, press FUNCTION + SIZE to adjust the display contrast.

CAUTION! Do not force the tape cassette or cover. Ensure the power is off when inserting or removing tape.

Specifications

• Model: Brother PT-400 Electronic Label Maker.
• Tape Compatibility: Brother TZe series tapes (3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm widths).
• Power Supply: 6 AA batteries (alkaline recommended) or AC adapter (included).
• Display: LCD with 1-line text preview.
• Fonts: Multiple built-in fonts (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif, Script).
• Font Sizes: Small, Medium, Large, and Extra-Large.
• Frames & Borders: Over 50 decorative frames.
• Print Speed: Approximately 10mm per second.
• Memory: Stores up to 9 custom labels.
• Operating Temperature: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys and the FUNCTION menu.

Front Panel Keys: POWER, LETTER SIZE, FONT, FRAME, UNDERLINE/BORDER, PRINT, CUT.

Function Menu (FUNCTION key): Access advanced settings like Auto-Cut On/Off, Tape Width setting, Language, Contrast, and Memory recall.

Formatting: Use SIZE to cycle through font sizes. Use FONT to change font style. Use FRAME to select decorative borders. Use UNDERLINE/BORDER to add underlines or box borders.

Basic Operation: Type text > Format as desired > Preview on LCD > Press PRINT.

Loading Tape Cassettes

Ensure the label maker is powered OFF.

1. Slide the cassette cover release lever and open the cover fully.
2. Insert a Brother TZe tape cassette into the slot. Align the cassette guides with the grooves inside.
3. Gently press down until the cassette clicks into place.
4. Close the cover firmly until it snaps shut.
5. Power on. The LCD should show the tape width and color indicator.

Tip: Always feed the tape end through the cutting blade slot before closing the cover for a clean first cut.

Creating Labels

Supports text labels with various formatting options.

1. Enter Text: Use the QWERTY keyboard to type your label text. Use DEL or BS to delete characters.
2. Apply Formatting: Press FONT, SIZE, or FRAME before or after typing to apply styles. The LCD will show a preview.
3. Preview & Edit: Use the arrow keys to move the cursor and edit text.
4. Print: Press the PRINT button. The label will be printed and advanced automatically.
5. Cut: If Auto-Cut is off, press the CUT button after printing to sever the tape. For Auto-Cut, the label cuts automatically after printing.
6. Multiple Copies: Before printing, press the NUMBER key (e.g., "5") then PRINT to print multiple copies of the same label.

WARNING! Do not pull the tape during printing. Keep fingers away from the cutting mechanism.

Advanced Features

Auto-Cut: Enable/disable in FUNCTION menu. When ON, the tape cuts automatically after each print job.

Label Memory: Save a label by pressing FUNCTION + MEMORY, then assign a number (1-9). Recall by pressing MEMORY + the number.

Sequential Numbering: Create a series of numbered labels (e.g., 1, 2, 3) using the NUMBERING function in the advanced menu.

Symbols & Special Characters: Press the SYMBOL key to access a library of icons (arrows, warning signs, etc.).

Care & Maintenance

Unplug adapter/remove batteries before cleaning. Use a dry, soft cloth only; do not use liquids or aerosols.

• Exterior: Wipe with a dry cloth.
• Keyboard & Display: Use a slightly damp cloth (water only), then dry immediately.
• Tape Path: If tape jams, refer to troubleshooting. Do not use sharp objects to clear jams.
• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Remove batteries if not used for extended periods.

CAUTION! Do not spray cleaners directly on the unit. Keep away from extreme heat, cold, or humidity.

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 1-877-4BROTHER (1-877-426-8437). This product is designed for use with genuine Brother supplies for optimal performance.

Troubleshooting

Reset: For persistent issues, remove batteries/adapter for 2 minutes, then re-power.

Service: 1-877-4BROTHER; www.brother-usa.com