Brother PT1950 User Manual

The Brother PT1950 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for home, office, and light commercial use. It features a full keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, decorative frames, and a variety of label tape cassettes. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. Specifications 4. Controls and Display 5. Basic Operation 6. Advanced Functions 7. Tape Cassettes 8. Care & Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Full QWERTY 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	For easy text entry; includes symbol and function keys
Tape Cassette Slot	Accepts Brother TZe tape cassettes in various widths and colors
Automatic Cutter	Cuts tape automatically after printing (optional setting)
AC Adapter Port	For power via included AC adapter
Battery Compartment	Holds 6 AA batteries for portable operation
Function Keys	Access fonts, frames, sizes, and special functions
Preview Feature	Allows visual check of label before printing
Multiple Languages	Supports various character sets
Memory Function	Stores frequently used labels

Installation & Setup

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

Install batteries: Open battery compartment, insert 6 AA batteries observing correct polarity.
Connect AC adapter: Plug adapter into port and into wall outlet (optional for battery saving).
Insert tape cassette: Open cassette cover, insert tape with printed side facing out, close cover.
Power on: Press the POWER button.

WARNING! Use only Brother TZe tape cassettes. Incorrect tape may damage the printer. Keep small parts away from children.

Specifications

Model: Brother PT1950.
Tape Widths Supported: 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm.
Tape Types: Laminated, non-laminated, fluorescent, reflective.
Fonts: Multiple built-in fonts and styles.
Display: LCD with backlight.
Power Source: 6 AA batteries or AC adapter (included).
Battery Life: Approximately 100 labels (alkaline batteries).
Interface: Stand-alone (no PC connection).
Dimensions: Compact and portable design.
Operating Temp: 50°F to 104°F (10°C to 40°C).

Controls and Display

Access functions via dedicated keys and on-screen menus. Front Panel: POWER, FUNCTION, FONT, SIZE, FRAME, PRINT, CUT.

Keyboard: Standard QWERTY layout with additional Symbol (Sym) and Space keys. Arrow keys for navigation.

Display Icons: Show tape width, battery status, font style, text alignment, and print mode. Menu Navigation: Use FUNCTION key combined with other keys to access advanced settings like auto power off, buzzer, and unit conversion.

Basic Operation

Creating and printing a simple label.

Power on the device.
Type your text using the keyboard.
Use FONT key to change font style.
Use SIZE key to adjust text size.
Use FRAME key to add decorative borders.
Press PREVIEW (FUNCTION + Enter) to check label appearance.
Press PRINT key to print the label.
Press CUT key or use automatic cutter to cut the tape.

Tip: Press the Space key to add gaps between words or elements on your label.

Advanced Functions

Utilizing the full capabilities of your PT1950.

Numbering: Create sequential labels (e.g., 1, 2, 3).
Memory: Store up to 9 frequently used labels for quick recall.
Text Alignment: Align text left, center, or right within the tape width.
Mirror Printing: Print text in reverse for application on transparent tape.
Multiple Copies: Print up to 9 copies of the same label.
Symbols & Accents: Access a wide library of symbols and international characters.
Auto Format: Automatically adjusts text size to fit tape width.
Barcode Printing: Create simple barcodes (depending on model features).

Note: Refer to the FUNCTION key combinations listed in the quick reference guide for these features.

Tape Cassettes

Supports Brother TZe series tape cassettes.

Compatibility: Use only genuine Brother TZe tapes.
Installation: Ensure tape path is clear and cassette clicks into place.
Width Selection: The machine automatically detects tape width.
Types: Standard, laminated (glossy), fluorescent, iron-on, magnetic.

WARNING! Do not use damaged or non-Brother cassettes. Do not touch the printing mechanism inside the cassette slot.

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Never insert objects into the tape slot or cutter mechanism. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

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 1-877-267-8437.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Dead batteries/loose adapter	Replace batteries; ensure AC adapter is firmly connected.
Nothing appears on display	Contrast setting	Adjust display contrast (FUNCTION + C key).
Tape does not feed/print	Cassette not installed correctly	Eject and reinsert tape cassette firmly.
Print quality is poor	Dirty print head/old tape	Clean print head with dry cotton swab; use fresh tape.
Text does not fit on tape	Tape width too small/font too large	Select auto format or reduce font size; use wider tape.
Key does not respond	Device locked/debris	Press and hold ESC to unlock; ensure keys are clean.

Reset: Remove batteries and AC adapter for 2 minutes to perform a soft reset.

Service: 1-877-267-8437; www.brother-usa.com