1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the Phomemo PM241BT Bluetooth Thermal Label Printer. Please read this guide thoroughly before using the printer to ensure proper operation and to maximize its lifespan. This printer is designed for efficient label printing for various applications, including shipping, addressing, and product labeling.
Image 1.1: Phomemo PM241BT printer in operation, connected via Bluetooth to a smartphone.
2. Safety Information
Observe the following safety precautions to prevent damage to the printer or injury to yourself:
- Do not disassemble or modify the printer.
- Keep the printer away from water, moisture, and direct sunlight.
- Use only the provided power adapter and cables.
- Ensure the printer is placed on a stable, flat surface.
- Avoid touching the print head immediately after printing, as it may be hot.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in the package:
- Phomemo PM241BT Thermal Label Printer
- Power Adapter
- USB Cable
- USB-C Adapter
- Power Cord
- Quick Start Guide
- 10 x 4x6 inch Labels
Image 3.1: All components included in the Phomemo PM241BT product package.
4. Setup
4.1. Hardware Connection
- Connect the power cord to the power adapter, then plug the adapter into the printer's power port.
- Plug the power cord into a wall outlet.
- If connecting via USB, connect the USB cable from the printer to your computer. Use the USB-C adapter if necessary.
4.2. Loading Labels
The printer supports thermal labels with a width of 1 inch (25.4 mm) to 4.6 inches (116 mm).
- Ensure the printer is powered on.
- Gently open the top cover of the printer.
- Insert the thermal labels into the feed slot, ensuring the print side faces upwards.
- Adjust the label guides to fit the label width snugly.
- Close the top cover. The printer will automatically detect and calibrate the label size.
4.3. Software Installation and Connectivity
The Phomemo PM241BT offers both Bluetooth and USB connectivity.
4.3.1. Bluetooth Connection (Mobile Devices & Computers)
For Bluetooth connectivity, download the "Labelife" application or software.
- For Mobile (iOS/Android):
- Scan the QR code in the Quick Start Guide or search for "Labelife" in your device's app store to download the app.
- Enable Bluetooth on your mobile device.
- Open the Labelife app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect to the PM241BT printer.
- For Computers (macOS/Windows/ChromeOS/Linux):
- Download the Labelife software from the official Phomemo website or the provided link in the Quick Start Guide.
- Install the software and ensure your computer's Bluetooth is enabled.
- Open Labelife and pair with the PM241BT printer.
Image 4.1: Bluetooth connection steps for mobile devices using the Labelife app.
4.3.2. USB Connection (Computers Only)
For USB connection, you will need to install the printer driver.
- Connect the printer to your computer using the USB cable.
- Visit labelife.net/#/pm246sbt to download the appropriate printer driver for your operating system (macOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux).
- Install the driver following the on-screen instructions.
- Once installed, your computer should recognize the PM241BT as a standard printer.
Image 4.2: USB connection and driver installation for PC.
5. Operating the Printer
5.1. Printing via Bluetooth
After connecting your device via Bluetooth using the Labelife app:
- Open the Labelife app on your smartphone or computer.
- Select or create the label you wish to print. The app offers various templates for shipping, address, circular, and barcode labels.
- Confirm print settings (e.g., number of copies).
- Initiate the print command from the app.
Image 5.1: Wireless printing from a smartphone using Bluetooth.
5.2. Printing via USB
Once the USB driver is installed, you can print from any application on your computer that supports printing.
- Open the document or label file you want to print (e.g., PDF, image, or a label created in Labelife software).
- Go to 'File' > 'Print' or use the print shortcut (Ctrl+P or Cmd+P).
- Select "Phomemo PM241BT" from the list of available printers.
- Adjust print settings as needed (e.g., paper size, orientation). Ensure the label size matches the loaded labels.
- Click 'Print'.
Image 5.2: Printing from a laptop using a USB connection.
5.3. Supported Label Types and Platforms
The PM241BT printer is compatible with various thermal label types and major e-commerce/shipping platforms:
- Label Types: Shipping labels (4x6 inches), address labels, circular labels, barcode labels, FBA labels, Amazon Warehouse labels, price labels.
- Platforms: Shopify, Etsy, eBay, Amazon, Hermes, Royal Mail Click & Drop, Parcelforce, DPD, UPS, DHL, FedEx, and others.
Image 5.3: Examples of various label types and sizes supported by the printer.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and extends the printer's life.
6.1. Cleaning the Print Head
Clean the print head if print quality degrades or after every few rolls of labels.
- Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
- Open the top cover.
- Use an alcohol swab (70% isopropyl alcohol) to gently wipe the print head.
- Allow the print head to dry completely before closing the cover and powering on the printer.
6.2. Cleaning the Platen Roller
Clean the platen roller if labels are not feeding smoothly.
- Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord.
- Open the top cover.
- Use an alcohol swab to clean the platen roller, rotating it manually to clean the entire surface.
- Allow it to dry completely before use.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to the following table for common issues and their solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Printer not turning on | Power cable not connected; power outlet issue | Check power connections; try a different outlet. |
| Poor print quality | Dirty print head; incorrect label type; low print density setting | Clean the print head; ensure thermal labels are used; adjust print density in software. |
| Labels not feeding correctly | Labels loaded incorrectly; label guides not adjusted; dirty platen roller | Reload labels correctly; adjust label guides; clean platen roller. |
| Bluetooth connection failure | Bluetooth off; incorrect pairing; app issue | Ensure Bluetooth is on; re-pair device in Labelife app; restart app/device. |
| Printer not recognized by PC via USB | Driver not installed; faulty USB cable | Install or reinstall the printer driver; try a different USB cable or port. |
8. Specifications
- Model: PM241BT
- Printing Technology: Thermal
- Connectivity: Bluetooth (iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux via Labelife app), USB (macOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux)
- Print Resolution: 203 dpi
- Max Print Speed: 150 mm/s (72 pages per minute)
- Supported Label Width: 1 inch (25.4 mm) to 4.6 inches (116 mm)
- Dimensions: 11 x 22 x 16 cm (4.3 x 8.7 x 6.3 inches)
- Weight: 1.05 kg (2.3 lbs)
- Operating System Compatibility: iOS, Android, macOS, Windows, ChromeOS, Linux
Image 8.1: Overview of connectivity options and compatible operating systems.
9. Warranty and Support
Phomemo offers a limited warranty for the PM241BT printer. For specific warranty terms, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or contact customer support.
9.1. Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Phomemo customer service. Support is available 24 hours a day. You may also be eligible for free returns within 30 days of purchase.
Please visit the official Phomemo website for contact information or refer to your Quick Start Guide.
