Read this User's Guide before you start using your P-touch.
Keep this User's Guide in a handy place for future reference.
Lea esta Guía de usuario antes de utilizar la rotuladora P-touch.
Guarde esta Guía de usuario en un lugar accesible para futuras consultas.
Thank you for purchasing the PT-18RKT.
The PT-18RKT (hereafter, referred to as “printer”) is a label printer that enables you to
easily print custom labels after it is connected to a computer.
This manual contains various precautions and basic procedures for using this printer.
Read this manual carefully before starting and keep the manual in a handy place for
future reference.
If new versions of the PT-18RKT software become available, this manual may not
reflect the updated features. Therefore, you may find that the software and the contents
in this manual are different.
■
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaration of Conformity (For USA Only)
Responsible Party:Brother International Corporation
declares, that the products
Product Name:Brother P-touch Electronic Labeling System
Model Numbers:PT-18R
comply with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed
and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user
is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Important
• The enclosed interface cable should be used in order to ensure compliance with the limits
for a Class B digital device.
• A shielded interface cable should be used in order to ensure compliance with the limits
for a Class B digital device.
• Changes or modifications not expressly approved by Brother Industries, Ltd. could void
the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Under the supervision of Brother Industries Ltd., this manual has been compiled and
published, covering the latest product’s descriptions and specifications.
The contents of this manual and the specifications of this product are subject to change
without notice.
If new versions of the PT-18RKT software become available, this manual may not
reflect the updated features. Therefore, you may find that the software and the contents
in this manual are different.
Brother reserves the right to make changes without notice in the specifications and
materials contained herein and shall not be responsible for any damages (including
consequential) caused by reliance on the materials presented, including but not limited
to typographical and other errors relating to the publication.
The screen images in this manual may differ depending on your OS or printer.
The Brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.
Brother is a trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.
Microsoft, Windows Vista and Windows are registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and other countries.
The names of other software or products used in this document are trademarks or
registered trademarks of the respective companies that developed them.
Each company whose software title is mentioned in this manual has a Software License
Agreement specific to its proprietary programs.
All other brand and product names mentioned in this User’s Guide are registered
trademarks of their respective companies.
BrotherTM One-Year Limited Warranty and Replacement Service
(USA Only)
Who is covered:
• This limited warranty (“warranty”) is given only to the original end-use/retail purchaser (referred
to in this warranty as “Original Purchaser”) of the accompanying product, consumables and
accessories (collectively referred to in this warranty as “this Product”).
• If you purchased a product from someone other than an authorized Brother reseller in the United
States or if the product was used (including but not limited to floor models or refurbished product
by someone other than Brother), prior to your purchase you are not the Original Purchaser and
the product that you purchased is not covered by this warranty.
What is covered:
• This Product includes a Machine and Consumable and Accessory Items. Consumable and
Accessory Items may include but are not limited to label and tape rolls/cassettes, cutters,
adaptor, carrying cases, batteries and print servers. Except as otherwise provided herein, Brother
warrants that the Machine and the accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items will be free
from defects in materials and workmanship, when used under normal conditions.
• This warranty applies only to products purchased and used in the United States. For products
purchased in, but used outside, the United States, this warranty covers only warranty service
within the United States (and does not include shipping outside the United States).
What is the length of the Warranty Periods:
• Machines: One year from the original purchase date.
• Accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items: 90 days from the original purchase date or the
rated life of consumable, whichever comes first.
What is NOT covered:
This warranty does not cover:
(1) Physical damage to this Product;
(2) Damage caused by improper installation, improper or abnormal use, misuse, neglect or
accident (including but not limited to transporting this Product without the proper preparation
and/or packaging);
(3) Damage caused by another device or software used with this Product (including but not limited
to damage resulting from use of non Brother™-brand parts and Consumable and Accessory
Items);
(4) Consumable and Accessory Items that expired in accordance with a rated life; and,
(5) Problems arising from other than defects in materials or workmanship.
This limited warranty is VOID if this Product has been altered or modified in any way (including but
not limited to attempted warranty repair without authorization from Brother and/or alteration/
removal of the serial number).
What to do if you think your Product is eligible for warranty service:
Report your issue to our Customer Service Hotline at 1-877-BROTHER (1-877-276-8437) or to a
Brother Authorized Service Center
Brother Authorized Service Center with a copy of your dated bill of sale showing that this Product
was purchased within the U.S. For the name of local Brother Authorized Service Center(s), call 1877-BROTHER (1-877-276-8437) or visit www.brother-usa.com.
within the applicable warranty period
. Supply Brother or the
What Brother will ask you to do:
After contacting Brother or a Brother Authorized Service Center, you may be required to deliver (by
hand if you prefer) or send the Product properly packaged, freight prepaid, to the Authorized
Service Center together with a photocopy of your bill of sale.
shipping, packing product, and insurance (if you desire). You are also responsible for loss
or damage to this Product in shipping.
What Brother will do:
If the problem reported concerning your Machine and/or accompanying Consumable and
Accessory Items is covered by this warranty and
Authorized Service Center within the applicable warranty period, Brother or its Authorized Service
Center will repair or replace the Machine and/or accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items
at no charge to you for parts or labor. The decision as to whether to repair or replace the Machine
and/or accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items is made by Brother in its sole discretion.
Brother reserves the right to supply a refurbished or remanufactured replacement Machine and/or
accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items and use refurbished parts provided such
replacement products conform to the manufacturer’s specifications for new product/parts. The
repaired or replacement Machine and/or accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items will be
returned to you freight prepaid or made available for you to pick up at a conveniently located
Authorized Service Center.
If the Machine and/or accompanying Consumable and Accessory Items are not covered by this
warranty (either stage), you will be charged for shipping the Machine and/or accompanying
Consumable and Accessory Items back to you and charged for any service and/or replacement
parts/products at Brother’s then current published rates.
The foregoing are your sole (i.e., only) and exclusive remedies under this warranty.
What happens when Brother elects to replace your Machine:
When a replacement Machine is authorized by Brother, and you have delivered the Machine to an
Authorized Service Center, the Authorized Service Center will provide you with a replacement
Machine after receiving one from Brother. If you are dealing directly with Brother, Brother will send
to you a replacement Machine with the understanding that you will, after receipt of the replacement
Machine, supply the required proof of purchase information, together with the Machine that Brother
agreed to replace. You are then expected to pack the Machine that Brother agreed to replace in
the package from the replacement Machine and return it to Brother using the pre-paid freight bill
supplied by Brother in accordance with the instructions provided by Brother. Since you will be in
possession of two machines, Brother will require that you provide a valid major credit card number.
Brother will issue a hold against the credit card account number that you provide until Brother
receives your original Product and determines that your original Product is entitled to warranty
coverage. Your credit card will be charged up to the cost of a new Product only if: (i) you do not
return your original Product to Brother within five (5) business days; (ii) the problems with your
original Product are not covered by the limited warranty; (iii) the proper packaging instructions are
not followed and has caused damage to the product; or (iv) the warranty period on your original
Product has expired or has not been sufficiently validated with a copy of the proof of purchase (bill
of sale). The replacement Machine you receive (even if refurbished or remanufactured) will be
covered by the balance of the limited warranty period remaining on the original Product, plus an
additional thirty (30) days. You will keep the replacement Machine that is sent to you and your
original Machine shall become the property of Brother.
and a copy of the return freight bill, signed by the courier.
if you first reported the problem to Brother or an
You are responsible for the cost of
Retain your original Accessory Items
Limitations:
Brother is not responsible for damage to or loss of any equipment, media, programs or data related
to the use of this Product. Except for that repair or replacement as described above, Brother shall
not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages or specific relief. Because
some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of consequential or incidental damages, the
above limitation may not apply to you.
THIS WARRANTY IS GIVEN IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, WRITTEN OR ORAL,
WHETHER EXPRESSED BY AFFIRMATION, PROMISE, DESCRIPTION, DRAWING, MODEL
OR SAMPLE. ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES OTHER THAN THIS ONE, WHETHER EXPRESS
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS
FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED.
• This Limited Warranty is the only warranty that Brother is giving for this Product. It is the final
expression and the exclusive and only statement of Brother’s obligations to you. It replaces all
other agreements and understandings that you may have with Brother or its representatives.
• This warranty gives you certain rights and you may also have other rights that may vary from state
to state.
• This Limited Warranty (and Brother’s obligation to you) may not be changed in any way unless
you and Brother sign the same piece of paper in which we (1) refer to this Product and your bill
of sale date, (2) describe the change to this warranty and (3) agree to make that change.
Important:
We recommend that you keep all original packing materials, in the event that you ship
Important: We recommend that you keep all original packing materials, in the event you ship this
product.
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INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing the P-touch PT-18RKT.
Your new P-touch is an easy to operate, feature packed labeling system that makes
creating professional, high quality labels a breeze. In addition to easy label creation via
pre-formatted label layouts, the P-touch editing software features advanced label
formatting, block formats, bar codes and auto-numbering functions.
• Carry your compact,
rechargeable P-touch
with you anywhere
without worrying
about power supply.
• The battery charger
also serves as a
convenient storage
stand, so the P-touch
is always at hand and
ready for use.
z INTRODUCTION
1
• You can quickly
increase your
labeling power, and
design and print
complex labels from
your computer using
the software
provided.
Refer to the Software Installation Guide for more details and installation directions.
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
1
INTRODUCTION
Creating Your First Label
This section introduces you to the methods used to create simple labels with your P-touch.
By creating a simple label, you will become familiar with the procedure for creating
general label layouts.
Creating a label with the P-touch
Prepare the P-touch.
1
Install and charge
the battery.
P. 16P. 19P. 21
To create a label if the battery is not charged, connect the AC adapter directly to the P-touch
machine. Refer to “AC Adapter” on page 19.
Enter the label text.
2
Enter the label text from the keyboard.
Set a tape cassette.Turn the P-touch on.
In addition to entering text, the P-touch
has a large range of editing functions.
"Create labels like these"
3
Creating Your First Label
2
P. 24
Print the label.
Print the label you have created.
P. 43
You can check the layout of your label
before printing.
Checking the label preview before
printing prevents wasting tape on
incomplete labels.
"Preview function"
Create a label with your personal computer
Prepare the P-touch labeler. (Refer to step 1 in the previous section.)
1
Prepare the personal computer.
2
Install the software.
Connect the USB
cable.
Turn the P-touch
labeler on.
z INTRODUCTION
Software Installation Guide
Enter the label text using P-touch Editor.
3
Software Help
Print the label.
4
Software Help
Software Installation Guide
"Create labels with complex designs like these"
P. 21
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
Creating Your Firs t Label
9
3
INTRODUCTION
To use the machine safely
Please read the following directions for safe use and handling before using your
P-touch. These safety precautions are provided for your benefit to prevent unnecessary
injury to you and those around you, and to prevent damage to the product. Please read
and follow them carefully.
The following symbols indicate the level of danger associated with not using the
product within the specified guidelines.
WARNING
CAUTION
The following symbols indicate specific directions.
:
This symbol denotes that the action poses a risk of danger.
:
This symbol denotes that the action is prohibited.
:
This symbol denotes that the action is required.
Rechargeable battery
Failure to observe the following may result in fluid leaking, overheating, rupture, or fire,
causing burns or other injuries.
• Do not throw the battery into a fire, or heat, solder or weld, disassemble or modify
the battery.
• Do not allow metallic articles to short-circuit the terminals of the battery.
• Do not carry or store the battery together with metallic articles.
• Do not remove or damage the plastic cover on the battery, or use a battery with
the plastic cover removed or damaged.
• Use only the battery charger designed exclusively for the rechargeable battery
provided. Do not use any other battery charger.
• Do not charge the battery in high temperature locations.
• Do not use the battery with the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals connected
incorrectly.
• If the battery leaks or emits an odor, it must be moved away from fire
immediately.
• Do not let the battery get wet.
• If the battery leaks, be careful not to let battery fluid contact your eyes.
Battery fluid contacting your eyes may result in the loss of eyesight. If battery
fluid comes into contact with your eyes, flush your eyes with clean water and
seek medical attention immediately.
This symbol denotes that improper handling poses a risk of
causing death or serious injury.
This symbol denotes that improper handling poses a risk of
causing injury or damage to the product.
WARNING
To use the machi ne safely
4
WARNING
• If the battery begins to emit an odor, overheat, discolor, deform, or any other
change occurs during use, charging, or storage, remove the battery immediately
and discontinue use.
Battery charger
Failure to observe the following may result in fire, overheating, or failure.
• Do not allow metallic articles to short-circuit the terminals of the charger.
• Do not let the charger get wet. If water or other liquids get in the charger, unplug
the AC adapter immediately.
• Do not use the charger while the charger terminals are wet or have condensation
on them.
• Do not use this charger with any product other than the P-touch.
• Use only the AC adapter provided with the P-touch.
• If the charger begins to emit an odor, overheat, discolor, deform, or any other
change occurs during use, charging, or storage, remove the P-touch from the
charger immediately, disconnect the AC adapter, and discontinue use.
AC adapter
Failure to observe the following may result in fire, electric shock, or failure.
• Always use the specified voltage (120V) and the AC adapter (AD-18) provided.
• Do not overload the power outlet.
• Do not place heavy objects on, damage or modify the power cord or plug. Do not
forcibly bend or pull the power cord.
• Do not use a damaged power cord.
• Do not touch the AC adapter or power plug with wet hands.
• Make sure that the plug is fully inserted to the power outlet. Do not use an outlet
that is loose.
P-touch
Failure to observe the following may result in fire, electric shock, or failure.
• Do not disassemble or modify the P-touch.
• Do not drop, hit or otherwise damage the P-touch.
• Do not spill drinks or other liquids on the P-touch, or otherwise let the P-touch
become wet.
• Do not use the P-touch if any foreign object has entered the P-touch.
If any foreign object has entered the P-touch, immediately turn the power off,
disconnect the AC adapter, remove the battery, and discontinue use.
• If the P-touch begins to emit an odor, overheat, discolor, deform, or any other
change occurs during use, charging, or storage, remove the P-touch from the
charger immediately, disconnect the AC adapter, remove the battery, and
discontinue use.
• Do not let children play with the empty package that the P-touch came in when
purchased. Store the empty package in location out of the reach of children, or
dispose of it. Empty packaging can be a choking or suffocation hazard for
children.
z INTRODUCTION
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
To use the mach ine safely
5
INTRODUCTION
CAUTION
Rechargeable battery
Failure to observe the following may result in fluid leaking, overheating, rupture, or
deteriorated performance and life span.
• Do not hit or throw the battery.
• Do not use or leave battery exposed in direct sunlight, near heaters or other hot
appliances, or in any location exposed to extremely high temperatures.
• Remove the battery when not using the P-touch for any extended period of time.
• If battery fluid comes into contact with skin or clothes, wash the affected areas
thoroughly with clean water. Battery fluid is harmful to skin.
Battery charger
Failure to observe the following may result in fire, electric shock, or short circuit.
• Do not use or place the battery charger in direct sunlight, near heaters or other
hot appliances, in any location exposed to extremely high temperatures, high
humidity, or dusty locations.
• Do not disassemble or modify the battery charger.
• Do not hit or throw the battery charger.
• Do not carry or store the battery charger together with metallic articles.
AC adapter
• Be sure to disconnect the AC adapter and battery charger from the power outlet
and the P-touch when not using the P-touch for any extended period of time.
• Always hold the plug when disconnecting the power cord from the power outlet.
Tape cutter
• Do not touch the tape cutter with your hands. This may result in injury.
Usage/storage location
• Do not place the P-touch or battery charger in unsafe locations such as unstable
platforms or high shelves, etc. It may fall down and cause an injury.
• Do not place heavy objects on the P-touch or battery charger. It may fall down
and cause an injury.
Memory
• Any data stored in memory will be lost due to failure or repair of the P-touch, or
if the battery expires.
Tape
• Depending on the environmental conditions and the material and condition of
the affixing surface, the label may peel off or the color of the tape may change.
When removing labels, adhesive may remain, the tape's color may be
transferred to the surface, or the surface beneath the label may otherwise be
damaged. Be sure to test the label on the intended surface and material before
affixing the label.
To use the machi ne safely
6
General Precautions
• Do not use the P-touch in any way or for any purpose not described in this guide. Doing
so may result in accidents or damage the machine.
• Use only genuine TZe/HGe tapes, with the / mark, in the P-touch.
• Do not pull or press on the tape in the cassette.
• Do not put any foreign objects into the tape exit slot, AC adapter connector, or USB port,
etc.
• Do not try to print labels using an empty tape cassette or without a tape cassette set in the
P-touch. Doing so will damage the print head.
• Do not touch the print head with your fingers.
• Note that all data stored in memory will be lost if you disconnect BOTH the AC adapter
AND the rechargeable battery.
• Do not use paint thinner, benzene, alcohol or any other organic solvent to clean the
P-touch.
• Do not place the P-touch in direct sunlight, near heaters or other hot appliances, in any
location exposed to extremely high or low temperatures, high humidity, or dusty locations.
Standard operating temperature range: 50
• Be careful not to scratch the CD-ROM. Do not place the CD-ROM in any location exposed
to high or low temperatures. Do not place heavy objects on the CD-ROM or bend it.
• The software on the CD-ROM is intended for use with the P-touch and may be installed
on more than one PC.
• We strongly recommend that you read this User’s Guide carefully before using your
P-touch, and then keep it nearby for future reference.
°
F to 95°F.
z INTRODUCTION
Symbols Used in this Guide
The following symbols are used throughout this guide to indicate additional information.
This symbol indicates information or directions that may result in damage or injury if
:
ignored, or operations that will result in errors.
This symbol indicates information or directions that may help you understand and use
:
the P-touch more efficiently.
General Precautions
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
7
INTRODUCTION
A B C
Quick
Quick
Index
Index
ABC
This section provides quick and easy access to
information on tasks often needed by users.
Quick Index
Simply look for your task below and then go to
the page indicated.
If the task you are looking for is not shown here,
try the Contents or Index pages.
Check that the package contains the following before using your P-touch.
P-touch PT-18RKTTape cassette
CD-ROMUSB cable
z GETTING STARTED
AC adapter
The plug may differ by countries.
Battery chargerUser’s Guide
Software Installation GuideCarrying case
Rechargeable battery
Unpacking Your P-touch
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
11
GETTING STARTED
LCD display
Keyboard
Charging terminals
General Description
AC adapter
connector
USB port
When shipped from the factory, the
LCD display is covered with a
protective sheet to prevent damage.
Remove this sheet before using the
P-touch.
Back
cover
Battery charger
General Description
12
Tape viewer
Tape exit
slot
Back cover
opening grip
AC adapter connector
Charging
indicator
Rechargeable battery
Rechargeable battery
case cover
Charging terminals
Release lever
Tape
cutter
Print
head
Tape cassette
case
LCD Display & Keyboard
LCD Display
45678910
1
2
3
1. Line number
Displayed at the beginning of each line, this mark indicates the line number within
the label layout.
2. Cursor
Indicates the current position of the cursor. New characters are entered to the left of
the cursor, and the character to the left of the cursor is deleted when the
is pressed.
3. Return mark
Indicates the end of a line of text.
4. Caps mode
Indicates that the Caps mode is on.
5.~8. Style guidance
Indicates the current font (5), character size (6), character style (7) and frame (8)
settings.
9. Tape length
Indicates the tape length for the text entered.
10.Cursor selection
Indicates that you can use the cursor keys to select the items on the screen. Use
the and keys to select a menu item, and the and keys to change the
setting.
key
z GETTING STARTED
1
2
3
4
5
LCD Display & Keyboard
6
7
8
9
13
GETTING STARTED
Key Names and Functions
LCD Display & Keyboard
14
(Power):
• Turns the P-touch on and off.
:
• Prints the current label design onto the
tape.
• Opens the Print Options menu when
used in combination with the key.
(Preview):
• Displays a preview of the label.
(Feed & Cut):
• Feeds 0.89" (22.5 mm) of blank tape
and then automatically cuts the tape.
:
• Opens the Text menu, where you can
set character attributes for the label.
:
• Opens the Label menu, where you can
set label attributes for the label.
(Auto-Format):
• Opens the Auto-Format menu, where
you can create labels using pre-defined
templates or block formats.
:
• Opens the Tools menu, where you can
set operating preferences for the P-touch.
:
• Clears all text entered, or all text and
current label settings.
(Backspace):
• Deletes the character to the left of the
cursor.
• Cancels the current command and
returns the display to the data entry
screen or the previous step.
:
• Turns the Caps mode on and off. When
the Caps mode is on, uppercase letters
can be entered by simply pressing a
character key.
~ :
• Use these keys to type letters or
numbers.
• Uppercase letters, symbols or accent
characters can be entered using these
keys in combination with the , ,
or keys.
:
• Use this key in combination with the
letter and number keys to type
uppercase letters or the symbols
indicated on the number keys.
:
• Use this key in combination with keys
that have blue characters above them to
type the accented characters or
symbols indicated, or to activate the
function indicated.
:
• Use this to select and enter a symbol
from a list of available symbols.
:
• Use this to select and enter an accented
character from the list of available
characters.
• Enters a blank space.
• Returns a setting to the default value.
• Enters a new line when entering text.
• Selects the option displayed when
• Cancels the current command and
• Moves the cursor in the direction of the
:
(Return):
setting label attributes in the function
menus, or when entering symbols or
accent characters.
(Escape):
returns the display to the data entry
screen or the previous step.
:
arrow when entering or editing
characters, entering symbols or
accented characters, and when setting
label attributes in the function menus.
z GETTING STARTED
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
LCD Display & Keyboard
9
15
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