1. Introduction
The Brother SX-4000 Portable Daisywheel Typewriter offers a blend of traditional tactile typing with modern electronic conveniences. Designed for ease of use and portability, this typewriter is suitable for various typing tasks, from personal correspondence to professional documents. Its compact design and responsive keyboard aim to enhance focus and productivity, providing a reliable typing experience.

Figure 1: Brother SX-4000 Portable Daisywheel Typewriter.
2. Setup
2.1 Unpacking and Placement
Carefully remove the typewriter from its packaging. Ensure all packing materials are removed from the unit, especially any protective inserts around the print head and ribbon area. Place the typewriter on a stable, flat surface near an electrical outlet.
2.2 Power Connection
Locate the power cord compartment cover at the rear of the unit. Open the cover, plug the power cord into a standard 110V electrical outlet, and then into the typewriter's power input. Close the compartment cover. The power switch is located on the right side of the machine. Turn the power switch to the 'ON' position. A green LED light on the keyboard will illuminate, indicating the typewriter is ready for use.
2.3 Loading Paper
- Lift the paper support up.
- Align a sheet of letter-size paper with the (L) symbol on the paper support.
- Lift the paper bail and turn the platen knob until the paper is inserted correctly.
- Push the paper release lever forward to straighten the paper. Once straight, return the lever back to secure the sheet.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Basic Typing
The Brother SX-4000 features a full-size 45-key keyboard with 17 function keys. Simply press the desired keys to type. The responsive keys provide a tactile typing experience. For fast typists, a 20-character keystroke buffer helps prevent missed characters.
3.2 Margin Settings
Upon turning on the unit, margins are automatically set to 10 (Left) and 75 (Right). To set new margins, move the carriage to the desired position and press the MAR LEFT or MAR RIGHT key. To release margins, press MAR REL.
3.3 Tab Settings
To set a tab, move the carriage to the desired position and press TAB SET. The typewriter will beep to confirm. You can store up to 12 tab positions. To clear a tab, move the carriage to the tab position and press TAB SET again. To clear all tabs, hold down CODE + TAB SET simultaneously.
3.4 Correction Features
The typewriter includes a correction memory and correction film ribbon for easy error correction. If you make a typing error, press the WORD correction key, and the typewriter will automatically erase the last typed word. For single character corrections, use the BACK SPACE key and then the correction key.
3.5 Special Functions
- Automatic Underlining: Activates automatic underlining for typed text.
- Bold Typing: Enables bold character printing.
- Superscript and Subscript: Allows for typing characters above or below the normal line.
- Auto Indent: Automatically indents the first line of a paragraph.
- Decimal Tabulation: Aligns numbers by their decimal points.
- Auto Centering: Automatically centers text on the page.
- Flush Right Margin: Aligns text to the right margin.
- Auto Return: Automatically moves the carriage to the next line when the right margin is reached.
4. Maintenance
4.1 Cleaning
Keep the typewriter clean by regularly wiping its exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the keyboard or internal components. Use a small brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keys and around the print head area.
The typewriter features two built-in dust covers to protect internal mechanisms from foreign objects when not in use. Ensure these covers are closed when storing the device.
4.2 Ribbon and Printwheel Replacement
When the print quality deteriorates, it's time to replace the ribbon cassette. Refer to the detailed instructions provided in the quick reference guide for proper ribbon and printwheel replacement procedures. Always turn off the typewriter before attempting any replacement.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Brother SX-4000 typewriter, consider the following common solutions:
- No Power: Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into both the typewriter and a working electrical outlet. Check the power switch on the right side of the machine is in the 'ON' position.
- Poor Print Quality: This often indicates a worn-out ribbon. Replace the ribbon cassette as per the instructions in the maintenance section. Also, ensure the printwheel is clean and correctly installed.
- Paper Jams: Ensure paper is loaded correctly and aligned with the paper support. Avoid using wrinkled or damaged paper. Gently pull the paper out if it gets stuck, ensuring not to damage internal components.
- Keys Not Responding: Check for any debris lodged under the keys. If the issue persists, ensure the typewriter is powered on and the keyboard is not locked (if applicable).
- Incorrect Margins/Tabs: Reset margins and tabs according to the operating instructions.
For further assistance, refer to the full operation manual or contact customer support.
7. Warranty & Support
This Brother SX-4000 Typewriter is a renewed product. Renewed products are professionally inspected and tested to work and look like new by Amazon-qualified suppliers. If not satisfied with the purchase, renewed products are eligible for replacement or refund under the Amazon Renewed Guarantee for 90 days from the date of purchase.
For specific support regarding the operation or functionality of your Brother SX-4000, please refer to the comprehensive user manual that came with your product or contact Brother customer service.