Owners Manual for Brother Model PT-2040

The Brother PT-2040 is a compact, portable electronic labeling system designed for creating professional-looking labels for home, office, and organizational use. It features a QWERTY keyboard, LCD display, multiple font styles and sizes, various label tapes, decorative frames, and a built-in cutter. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Main unit with keyboard and display, AC adapter, starter tape cartridge, and user manual.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows text, symbols, and formatting before printing
QWERTY KeyboardFor easy text entry and navigation
Label TapesSupports various widths (e.g., 3.5mm, 6mm, 9mm, 12mm) and colors
Fonts & StylesMultiple fonts, sizes, and text styles (bold, underline, outline)
Frames & SymbolsBuilt-in decorative frames and symbols for enhanced labels
Auto-CutterAutomatically cuts label tape after printing (optional setting)
Power SourceAC adapter or optional battery pack
Portable DesignCompact and lightweight for easy transport
Memory FunctionStores frequently used labels for quick recall
Print ModesNormal, mirror, and multiple copy printing

Installation & Power

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

  1. Insert Tape Cassette: Open the cassette cover, insert the tape cartridge with the tape end facing outward, and close the cover.
  2. Connect Power: Plug the AC adapter into the power port on the side of the unit, then plug the adapter into a standard 120V AC outlet.
  3. Optional Battery: Install 6 AA batteries (not included) into the battery compartment for portable use.
  4. Power On: Press the POWER button to turn on the unit.

WARNING! Use only the Brother-approved AC adapter. Do not force the tape cassette or cover.

First-Time Setup

Power on the labeler; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Set Language: Use the FUNCTION key and arrow keys to select your language (default is ENGLISH).
  2. Set Tape Width: The unit will automatically detect the installed tape width. Confirm on the display.
  3. Adjust Contrast: If needed, use the FUNCTION + SIZE keys to adjust LCD contrast.
  4. Test Print: Type a sample text and press PRINT to ensure proper operation.

CAUTION! Ensure the tape cassette is properly seated before printing to avoid jams.

Specifications

Controls and Functions

Access functions via the keyboard and FUNCTION key. Front Panel: POWER, FUNCTION, PRINT, CUT (manual), arrow keys, and character keys.

Key Functions: POWER (on/off), FUNCTION (access secondary functions), PRINT (prints label), CUT (manual cut), arrows (navigation), DEL (delete), SPACE, SHIFT (capital/symbols).

Formatting: Use FUNCTION + SIZE for font size, FUNCTION + FONT for style, FUNCTION + FRAME for borders. Tape Settings: Select tape type and width via FUNCTION + TAPE. Memory: Store/recall labels with FUNCTION + MEMORY.

Creating Labels

Basic steps to create and print a label.

  1. Turn on the unit and ensure tape is loaded.
  2. Type your text using the keyboard. Use SHIFT for capitals and symbols.
  3. Format text: Press FUNCTION + SIZE to change font size, FUNCTION + FONT for style (e.g., bold, underline).
  4. Add frames/symbols: Press FUNCTION + FRAME to select a decorative border.
  5. Preview: Check the LCD display for the label layout.
  6. Print: Press PRINT. The label will print and auto-cut if enabled.
  7. Manual Cut: If auto-cut is off, press CUT after printing.

Tip: Use the mirror print function (FUNCTION + PRINT) for creating labels for inside surfaces like windows.

Advanced Features

Utilize additional functions for enhanced labeling.

  1. Multiple Copies: After typing text, press FUNCTION + NUMBER (1-9) to set copy quantity before printing.
  2. Serial Numbering: Use FUNCTION + NUM to print a sequence of numbers (e.g., 1, 2, 3).
  3. Memory Storage: Save a label by pressing FUNCTION + MEMORY + number key (1-9). Recall with MEMORY + number.
  4. Text Effects: Apply outline, shadow, or vertical printing via FUNCTION + STYLE.
  5. Tape Saver: Enable half-cut mode (FUNCTION + CUT) for saving tape when creating multiple short labels.

Maintenance & Care

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

  1. Tape Path: Occasionally check for tape debris and gently clean with a dry cotton swab.
  2. Cutter Blade: Keep the cutter area clean; do not touch the blade.
  3. Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and dust.
  4. Batteries: Remove if not used for extended periods to prevent leakage.

CAUTION! Never insert objects into the tape slot or attempt to lubricate moving parts.

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

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPower connection/batteriesEnsure AC adapter is plugged in securely; check/replace batteries.
Display is blankContrast setting/powerAdjust contrast (FUNCTION + SIZE); ensure unit is on.
Tape does not feedTape jam/incorrect loadingOpen cover, remove tape cartridge, clear any jam, reload properly.
Print is faint or missingLow tape/dirty print headReplace tape cartridge; gently clean print head with dry cotton swab.
Keys not respondingLock function activatedPress FUNCTION + SHIFT to unlock keyboard.
Error message on displayVarious (e.g., "NO TAPE")Refer to manual error code list; ensure correct tape is installed.

Reset: Remove batteries/unplug AC adapter for 2 minutes to reset unit.

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

Owners Manual for Brother Model PT-2040 © - All Rights Reserved 2025