Brother PT 45 Label Maker Manual

The Brother PT-45 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for creating professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY-style keyboard, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, a variety of label tape cartridges, a built-in cutter, and a rechargeable battery option. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Unpacking & Parts Identification 3. Initial Setup & Power 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Keyboard Layout 6. Loading the Label Tape 7. Creating a Basic Label 8. Advanced Functions & Formatting 9. Care, Maintenance & Storage 10. Regulatory & Compliance 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with keyboard and display, AC power adapter, Label Tape Cartridge, Starter battery pack (if applicable), Protective cap.

FeatureDescription
KeyboardFull QWERTY layout for easy text entry
LCD DisplayShows text, formatting, and label preview
Tape Cassette SlotAccepts Brother TZe series label tapes
Print MechanismThermal printing; no ink or toner required
Built-in CutterManual lever for cutting the tape
Power SourceAC Adapter or optional rechargeable battery pack
Function KeysFor fonts, sizes, frames, and special functions
Port DesignCovered AC adapter port and battery compartment
Auto Power OffConserves battery life after period of inactivity
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels (varies by model)

Unpacking & Parts Identification

Carefully unpack and verify all contents. Place on a clean, stable surface.

  1. Main Label Maker Unit: Contains keyboard, display, and print mechanism.
  2. AC Power Adapter: For powering from a wall outlet.
  3. Starter Label Tape Cartridge: Often pre-installed or included separately.
  4. Optional Battery Pack: For portable use (check package contents).
  5. User Manual: This guide.

WARNING! Do not use if any parts are damaged. Keep plastic bags away from children to avoid suffocation hazard.

Initial Setup & Power

Prepare the label maker for first use.

  1. Insert Batteries or Connect Power: Open battery compartment, insert batteries observing polarity, or plug in the AC adapter.
  2. Install Label Tape: Open the tape compartment door, insert a TZe tape cartridge firmly until it clicks into place.
  3. Power On: Press the "POWER" button. The display should illuminate.
  4. Set Language/Units: Use the "SETTINGS" function to select your preferred language, date format, and measurement units.

CAUTION! Use only the specified Brother AC adapter or battery type. Incorrect power sources can cause damage.

Specifications

Controls & Keyboard Layout

Access functions via dedicated keys or the "FUNCTION" menu.

Primary Keys: POWER, SPACE, SHIFT, BACKSPACE/DELETE, ENTER, ARROWS (Cursor navigation).

Function Keys (often color-coded):
Font (FNT): Cycle through available typefaces.
Size (SZ): Select small, medium, large, or automatic.
Style (STYLE): Apply bold, underline, italic, or outline.
Frame (FRAME): Choose from decorative borders and boxes.
Print (PRINT): Initiate printing of the label.
Feed (FEED): Advance the tape without printing.

Loading the Label Tape

Only use genuine Brother TZe tape cassettes.

  1. Ensure the power is OFF.
  2. Press the latch to open the tape compartment cover.
  3. Insert the tape cartridge with the tape exiting from the bottom, aligning the cartridge guides.
  4. Push firmly until you hear a click. The tape end should be visible at the cutting blade.
  5. Close the compartment cover securely.

Tip: For laminated tapes, ensure the clear laminate side faces outward (toward the user).

Creating a Basic Label

Follow these steps to create and print your first label.

  1. Power on the unit.
  2. Type Text: Use the keyboard to type your desired label text. The display will show your input.
  3. Format Text (Optional): Before or after typing, press FONT, SIZE, or STYLE to change appearance.
  4. Add a Frame (Optional): Press FRAME to browse and select a border.
  5. Preview: The display shows a representation of the final label.
  6. Print: Press the PRINT button. The label will be printed and automatically fed.
  7. Cut: Use the manual cutter lever to sever the label from the tape roll.
  8. Apply: Peel the backing off the label and apply it to a clean, dry surface.

WARNING! Keep fingers clear of the cutter blade. Do not pull the tape out forcibly.

Advanced Functions & Formatting

Utilize additional features for professional labels.

Care, Maintenance & Storage

Unplug or remove batteries before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquids, aerosols, or abrasives.

For the Cutter Blade: If adhesive residue builds up, wipe gently with a cloth dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Allow to dry completely before use.

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Remove batteries if the device will not be used for an extended period.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into the tape slot or printer mechanism.

Regulatory & Compliance

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. This product meets applicable RoHS directives. The battery (if included) must be recycled or disposed of properly according to local regulations. Brother is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-4BROTHER.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power / Display blankDead batteries, loose adapterReplace batteries; ensure adapter is plugged in securely at both ends.
Text does not print clearlyLow battery, dirty print headReplace batteries. Clean print head with dry cotton swab (power off).
Tape does not feed/printTape not loaded correctly, cassette emptyReinstall tape cartridge; replace with a new tape cassette.
Keys are unresponsiveUnit locked, low batteryPress and hold "POWER" to reset; replace batteries.
Error message on displayIncompatible tape, mechanical jamUse correct TZe tape. Open compartment and clear any jammed tape carefully.

Reset: To restore factory defaults, press and hold "POWER" and "FEED" simultaneously while turning on (procedure may vary).

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

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