brother pt d400 manual

The Brother PT-D400 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for creating professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a full keyboard, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of tape cassettes. Below are key sections covering safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Full keyboard, LCD display, Tape cassette compartment, Cutter lever, AC adapter port, Battery compartment.

Feature	Description
LCD Display	Shows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
Full Keyboard	QWERTY layout with dedicated function keys
Tape Cassette System	Supports multiple tape widths (e.g., 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm)
Automatic Cutter	Built-in cutter for separating labels (manual lever also available)
Power Options	AC adapter or 6 AA batteries for portability
Fonts & Styles	Multiple fonts, sizes, frames, and underline options
Memory Function	Stores frequently used labels for quick recall
Preview Function	Displays label layout before printing to conserve tape
Symbol Library	Includes common symbols and pictograms
Auto-Lamination	Available with specific laminated tape cassettes

Unpacking and Setup

Remove all items from the box and inspect for damage.

1. Insert batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing correct polarity.
2. Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into port and into a standard 120V AC outlet (optional for battery-free use).
3. Install tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with window facing up, close cover firmly.
4. Power on: Press the POWER button. The LCD should illuminate.

WARNING! Keep small parts away from children. Use only Brother-approved AC adapter and tape cassettes.

First-Time Use

Power on the labeler; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Set language: Press FUNCTION, then use arrow keys to select language (ENGLISH default).
2. Set tape width: The device auto-detects installed tape width; confirm on display.
3. Create a test label: Type a word, press PRINT to produce your first label.
4. Adjust print darkness: Use FUNCTION + DARKNESS keys if print is too light or dark.

CAUTION! Do not touch the cutter blade. Keep fingers clear during cutting operation.

Specifications

• Model: Brother PT-D400.
• Display: LCD, 1 line text.
• Tape Widths Supported: 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm.
• Tape Types: Laminated, Non-laminated, Flexible, Iron-on.
• Print Method: Thermal transfer.
• Fonts: Multiple (e.g., Gothic, Sans Serif, Script).
• Power Supply: AC adapter (included) or 6 AA batteries.
• Operating Temperature: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).
• Dimensions: Compact, portable design.
• Weight: Approximately 1.1 lbs (500g) without batteries.

Controls and Functions

Access functions via dedicated keys or FUNCTION menu.

Front Panel: POWER, LETTER SIZE, FONT, FRAME, UNDERLINE, PRINT, CUT (manual), ARROW keys.

Function Menu (FUNCTION key): Access to symbols, memory, settings, auto-numbering, print darkness, language, reset.

Basic Operations: Type text, use BACKSPACE to delete, use SPACE bar. Format text before printing using dedicated keys for font, size, frames, and underline.

Creating Labels

Basic label creation process.

1. Power on and ensure tape is loaded.
2. Type your desired text using the keyboard.
3. Format text: Press FONT to cycle fonts, LETTER SIZE for size, FRAME for decorative borders.
4. Preview: Press PREVIEW (if available) to see layout on LCD.
5. Print: Press PRINT. The label will print and automatically advance.
6. Cut: Press the CUT lever to separate the label. For auto-cut, enable in settings.

Tip: Use the clear protective backing to apply labels smoothly.

Advanced Features

Utilize advanced functions for complex labels.

1. Auto-Numbering: Press FUNCTION + NUMBER to create sequential labels.
2. Symbols: Press FUNCTION + SYMBOL to insert from library.
3. Memory: Store up to 9 labels. Press FUNCTION + MEMORY to save/recall.
4. Text Alignment: Align left, center, or right using FUNCTION + ALIGN.
5. Mirror Printing: For iron-on tapes, enable mirror print in settings.
6. Multiple Copies: Enter number of copies before printing.

WARNING! Do not use iron-on tape on synthetic fabrics. Follow fabric care instructions.

Tape Cassettes

Supports various Brother TZe tape cassettes.

Tape Type	Width	Common Uses
Laminated	3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm	Durable labels for bins, files, equipment
Non-Laminated	3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm	General purpose, indoor use
Flexible	6mm, 9mm	For curved surfaces, cables
Iron-On	6mm, 12mm	For fabric labeling (clothes, bags)
Fluorescent	6mm, 9mm	High-visibility labels

CAUTION! Install tape only when power is off. Do not force cassette.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug adapter/remove batteries before cleaning. Use dry, soft cloth only.

Cleaning: Wipe exterior with dry cloth. Use a cotton swab to gently clean the print head if print quality degrades (power off first).

Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. Remove batteries if not used for extended periods.

CAUTION! Do not use liquids, aerosols, or abrasives. Never insert objects into tape slot.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with limits for residential use. This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-4BROTHER.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries, loose adapter	Replace batteries; ensure adapter is firmly connected.
Blank LCD	Contrast setting, low power	Adjust contrast (FUNCTION + CONTRAST); check/replace batteries.
Print is faint	Low battery, darkness setting	Replace batteries; increase print darkness (FUNCTION + DARKNESS).
Tape not feeding	Cassette not installed correctly, jam	Power off, reinstall cassette; clear any jammed tape carefully.
Wrong characters	Keyboard mode	Check language/keyboard setting; reset to default if needed.
Error message on LCD	Tape mismatch, system error	Ensure correct tape type is installed; turn power off/on.

Reset: Press FUNCTION + POWER to perform a system reset (clears memory).

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