Brother PT-2600 Labeling System User Manual

1. Introduction

The Brother PT-2600 Labeling System is a versatile electronic label maker designed for both portable standalone use and computer connectivity. It supports printing on P-touch laminated labels and Avery die-cut address, return address, and file folder labels. This manual provides detailed instructions to help you effectively use and maintain your PT-2600 labeling system.

Figure 1: The Brother PT-2600 Labeling System, showcasing its design and packaging.

2. What's in the Box

Upon opening the package, verify that all the following components are included:

• Black on white laminated P-touch TZ starter tape
• AV-2067 cassette with 65 Avery address labels
• USB interface cable
• CD-ROM with label design software, label templates, and driver
• 8 AA batteries
• Tape separator

Figure 2: Rear view of the Brother PT-2600 packaging, illustrating the included accessories and key features.

3. Setup

3.1. Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment on the underside of the PT-2600 unit.
2. Open the battery compartment cover.
3. Insert 8 AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

Note: An optional AC adapter (not included) can be used for continuous power, bypassing the need for batteries.

3.2. Tape Cassette Installation

1. Open the tape cassette cover on the PT-2600.
2. Insert either a P-touch TZ tape cassette or an Avery label cassette into the compartment. Ensure it clicks into place.
3. Close the tape cassette cover.
4. To switch label types, simply remove the current cassette and insert the desired one.

3.3. Computer Connection (Optional)

1. Connect one end of the provided USB interface cable to the USB port on the PT-2600.
2. Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your PC or Mac computer.
3. Insert the included CD-ROM into your computer's optical drive.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the label design software, label templates, and necessary drivers.
5. Once installed, you can design and print labels directly from your computer.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Basic Label Creation (Standalone)

1. Turn on the PT-2600 by pressing the power button.
2. Use the QWERTY keyboard to type your desired text.
3. Utilize the function keys to adjust font size, style, frames, and other formatting options. The display screen will show a preview of your label.
4. Press the Print button to print the label. The built-in auto-cutter will automatically cut the label after printing.

4.2. Advanced Label Creation (PC/Mac Connected)

1. Ensure the PT-2600 is connected to your computer via USB and the software is installed.
2. Launch the Brother P-touch Editor software on your computer.
3. Use the software interface to design your label. This allows for integration of graphics, signatures, logos, various type fonts, and images.
4. Select the desired label type (P-touch or Avery) within the software, corresponding to the cassette loaded in the PT-2600.
5. Send the print command from the software. The PT-2600 will print and automatically cut the label.

The PT-2600 supports up to 640 type variations when connected to a computer, offering extensive customization.

5. Maintenance

5.1. Cleaning the Print Head

To ensure optimal print quality, periodically clean the print head:

1. Turn off the PT-2600 and open the tape cassette cover.
2. Remove the tape cassette.
3. Gently wipe the print head with a dry cotton swab or a specialized cleaning cassette (if available). Avoid touching the print head with bare hands.
4. Reinsert the tape cassette and close the cover.

5.2. Replacing Tape Cassettes

When a tape cassette is empty or you wish to change label types:

1. Open the tape cassette cover.
2. Remove the used or unwanted tape cassette.
3. Insert a new P-touch TZ tape cassette or Avery label cassette, ensuring it is seated correctly.
4. Close the tape cassette cover.

5.3. Battery Replacement

Replace the 8 AA batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display or if the unit fails to power on. Refer to section 3.1 for battery installation instructions.

6. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure 8 AA batteries are correctly installed or the optional AC adapter is securely connected.
• Poor Print Quality: Clean the print head (refer to section 5.1). Ensure the tape cassette is correctly installed and not empty.
• Label Jam: Turn off the unit, open the tape cassette cover, and carefully remove any jammed tape. Ensure the tape is properly aligned when reinserting the cassette.
• "Tape Waste" at Start/End of Label: The PT-2600, like many label makers, has a design characteristic that results in a small amount of tape being fed before and after printing for proper cutting and handling. This is normal operation and not a malfunction.
• Computer Connectivity Issues:
  • Verify the USB cable is securely connected to both the PT-2600 and your computer.
  • Ensure the P-touch Editor software and drivers are correctly installed from the CD-ROM.
  • Note that official support for newer operating systems (e.g., Windows 7, 8, 10, or recent macOS versions) may be limited as this is an older model. Check Brother's support website for the latest driver availability.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The Brother PT-2600 Labeling System comes with a 1-year limited warranty. For warranty claims, technical assistance, or further support, please contact Brother customer service. You can find contact information and additional resources on the official Brother website.

For the most up-to-date drivers and software compatibility information, especially for newer operating systems, it is recommended to visit the Brother support page for the PT-2600 model.