Brother PT 90 Label Maker Manual

The Brother PT 90 is a compact, handheld electronic label maker designed for home and office use. It features a QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of label tape cartridges. It is powered by 6 AA batteries or an optional AC adapter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Power 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Keyboard 6. Loading Label Tape 7. Creating Labels 8. Advanced Functions 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: QWERTY Keyboard, LCD Display, Tape Cassette Slot, Power Switch, Function Keys, Print Button, AC Adapter Port.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, formatting, and tape length before printing
QWERTY KeyboardFull layout for easy text entry
Tape Cassette SlotAccepts Brother TZe tape cartridges (3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Power Source6 AA batteries or optional AC adapter (AD-24)
Function KeysAccess fonts, sizes, frames, and special symbols
Print ButtonInitiates printing of the label
Auto-CutterAutomatically cuts tape after printing (on supported models)
Font StylesMultiple built-in fonts (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif, Script)
Label FramesDecorative borders for labels
Text EffectsBold, underline, italic, and vertical printing

Installation & Power

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all parts are present.

  1. Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing correct polarity.
  2. Connect AC adapter (optional): Plug AD-24 adapter into DC IN 6V port and then into wall outlet.
  3. Load tape cartridge: Open cassette cover, insert tape with ink side down, close cover.
  4. Power on: Slide POWER switch to ON position.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cartridges. Do not force tape or cartridge. Keep batteries away from children.

First-Time Setup

Power on the device; LCD will illuminate.

  1. Set language: Press FUNCTION, then LANGUAGE to select English (default) or other languages.
  2. Set tape width: Device auto-detects tape width from cartridge.
  3. Test print: Type "TEST" and press PRINT to ensure proper operation.
  4. Adjust contrast: Press FUNCTION + CONTRAST to adjust LCD visibility if needed.

CAUTION! Ensure tape cartridge is properly seated. Do not look into the print mechanism while printing.

Specifications

Controls and Keyboard

Access functions via dedicated keys or FUNCTION key combinations. Front Panel: POWER, PRINT, FUNCTION, SPACE, BACKSPACE, ARROWS, ENTER.

Keyboard: Standard QWERTY layout with number row. Special Keys: FONT, SIZE, FRAME, UNDERLINE, BOLD, ITALIC, SYMBOL, SETTINGS.

Text Entry: Type directly using keyboard. Formatting: Use FONT, SIZE, and style keys to change appearance. Navigation: Arrow keys move cursor; ENTER confirms selections. Function Menu: Press FUNCTION to access language, contrast, tape settings, and system reset.

Loading Label Tape

Use only Brother TZe tape cartridges.

  1. Power off the device.
  2. Open the cassette cover by sliding the latch.
  3. Insert tape cartridge with ink ribbon (dark side) facing down and toward the print head.
  4. Feed tape end under the guide and out through the tape exit slot.
  5. Close cassette cover firmly until it clicks.
  6. Power on; device will calibrate tape automatically.

Tip: Ensure tape path is clear. Do not touch the print head or ink ribbon.

Creating Labels

Supports text, symbols, and frames.

  1. Enter text: Type desired label text using keyboard.
  2. Format text: Press FONT to select style; SIZE to adjust; BOLD/ITALIC/UNDERLINE for effects.
  3. Add frames/symbols: Press FRAME or SYMBOL to browse and insert.
  4. Preview: LCD shows formatted label and estimated length.
  5. Print: Press PRINT button. Label will print and auto-cut (if equipped).
  6. Manual cut: If no auto-cutter, use built-in cutter blade on side of unit.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from cutter area. Allow print head to cool between long print jobs.

Advanced Functions

Numbering: Create sequential labels (e.g., 1, 2, 3). Vertical Text: Print text vertically. Mirror Printing: For application on inside of glass. Memory: Store frequently used labels (up to 9).

Care & Maintenance

Power off and remove batteries for extended storage. Clean exterior with dry, soft cloth. Use only Brother-brand tape to avoid jams.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners. Do not expose to extreme temperatures 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 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerDead batteries, loose adapterReplace batteries; ensure AC adapter is firmly connected.
Faint or no printingLow battery, wrong tape typeReplace batteries; use genuine Brother TZe tape.
Tape jamMisloaded tape, debrisPower off, open cover, remove tape carefully, reload correctly.
Keys not respondingDevice lock, low batteryPress and hold FUNCTION to unlock; replace batteries.
Incorrect text on LCDLanguage settingPress FUNCTION + LANGUAGE to select correct language.
Print head overheatedExtended usePower off and allow to cool for 15 minutes.

Reset: Press and hold FUNCTION + POWER for 5 seconds to factory reset (erases memory).

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

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