How to Use Brother P-Touch D200 Label Maker: A Comprehensive Guide
The Brother P-Touch D200 is a reliable and user-friendly label maker perfect for home, office, or school use. Whether you want to organize files, label shelves, or create custom tags, this compact device helps you produce professional-looking labels quickly and efficiently. If you’re new to the Brother P-Touch D200 or want to maximize its functionality, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from setup to advanced features. how to use brother p-touch d200 label maker
What is the Brother P-Touch D200?
The Brother P-Touch D200 is a handheld electronic label maker featuring a QWERTY keyboard for fast typing, a large LCD display for previewing labels, and multiple font styles, sizes, and frames to customize your labels. It uses durable laminated tapes that are resistant to water, heat, and fading — ideal for long-lasting organization.
Getting Started: Unboxing and Setup
What’s in the Box?
When you purchase the Brother P-Touch D200, your package typically includes:
Brother P-Touch D200 label maker
AC adapter (power supply)
TZe laminated tape cassette (usually black on white, 12mm width)
User manual
Batteries (in some bundles)
Installing Batteries or Connecting Power
Battery Installation: Open the battery cover on the back and insert six AAA batteries according to the polarity markings.
Using AC Adapter: For extended use, plug the AC adapter into the label maker’s DC IN jack and connect it to an electrical outlet.
Loading the Tape Cassette
Open the cassette cover on the front of the label maker.
Insert the TZe tape cassette, ensuring it clicks securely into place.
Close the cassette cover.
Press the Feed button to advance the tape and make sure it moves smoothly.
Note: Only use Brother TZe laminated tapes compatible with the P-Touch D200.
Basic Label Creation
Step 1: Power On the Device
Press the Power button. The LCD screen will light up, showing the home screen.
Step 2: Type Your Text
Use the QWERTY keyboard to enter the text you want on your label. The LCD screen shows what you type, allowing you to proofread before printing.
Step 3: Customize Your Label
The Brother P-Touch D200 offers various customization options:
Font Style: Press the Font button to cycle through font types like Arial, Times New Roman, and others.
Font Size: Choose from sizes such as Small, Medium, Large, or Extra Large.
Frames and Borders: Add decorative frames or borders by pressing the Frame button.
Bold/Italic/Underline: Use the Style button to apply these effects.
Label Length: Adjust the label length to suit your text or project.
Step 4: Print Your Label
Press the Print button. The label maker will print your label and automatically cut it.
Step 5: Peel and Apply
Carefully peel the backing off the label and stick it to the desired surface.
Advanced Features
Using Symbols and Special Characters
Press the Symbol key to access a variety of symbols like arrows, stars, currency signs, and more. Use the navigation keys to select your desired symbol and press OK.
Adding Multiple Lines
You can add up to seven lines of text on a single label:
After typing a line, press the Enter key to start a new line.
Adjust font and style for each line if desired.
Creating Vertical Text
For labeling cables or narrow surfaces, vertical text is useful:
Press the Vertical button to rotate your text 90 degrees.
Preview your label on the LCD before printing.
Memory Function
The P-Touch D200 can store frequently used labels for quick reprinting:
After typing your label, press the Memory Save button.
To recall, press Memory Recall and navigate through saved labels.
Label Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Replacing the Tape Cassette
When your tape runs out:
Open the cassette cover.
Remove the empty cassette.
Insert a new compatible TZe tape cassette.
Close the cover and press Feed to check tape movement.
Cleaning the Print Head
Regular cleaning ensures sharp prints:
Turn off the device and unplug it.
Use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the print head.
Allow it to dry before powering the device back on.
Common Issues and Fixes
Tape Jam: Turn off the label maker, open the cassette cover, carefully remove jammed tape, and reload.
Faded Printing: Replace the tape cassette or clean the print head.
Label Not Cutting Properly: Ensure tape cassette is correctly loaded and not damaged.
Practical Tips for Using the Brother P-Touch D200
Use the AC adapter for long labeling sessions to save battery life.
Experiment with fonts and frames to create labels that stand out.
Label cables, storage boxes, office supplies, or even create name tags.
Keep extra tape cartridges handy, especially for frequently used colors and widths.
Use the memory function for business use, such as labeling files with common names or project codes.
Summary
The Brother P-Touch D200 is a powerful and easy-to-use label maker suitable for various labeling needs. By understanding how to load tape, customize labels, and utilize advanced features like multiple lines, symbols, and memory storage, you can create professional and durable labels with ease. Regular maintenance and proper handling will keep your device working optimally for years.
Whether organizing your home, office, or classroom, the Brother P-Touch D200 is an essential tool that simplifies your labeling tasks and adds a touch of professionalism to your projects.