Brother P-touch QL-1050 Manual

The Brother P-touch QL-1050 is a high-speed, direct thermal label printer designed for professional and office use. It supports a wide range of label sizes, features a built-in cutter, and connects via USB for easy integration with computers. Below are key sections covering safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Use 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Functions 6. Connecting to Computer 7. Printing Labels 8. Maintenance & Cleaning 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct thermal print mechanism, built-in automatic cutter, USB interface, LCD display, power adapter, and label roll holder.

Feature	Description
Print Method	Direct thermal
Print Speed	Up to 150mm per second
Maximum Print Width	62mm (2.4 inches)
Label Types	Continuous length, die-cut labels, tape
Cutter	Built-in automatic cutter
Connectivity	USB 2.0 (Type B)
LCD Display	Shows status and error messages
Power Source	AC adapter (included)
Supported OS	Windows, macOS, Linux
Media Sensor	Auto-detects label gap/black mark

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, flat surface.

Install labels: Open cover, insert label roll, thread through guide, close cover.
Connect power: Plug AC adapter into printer and wall outlet.
Connect to computer: Use USB cable to connect printer to computer.
Install drivers: Use included CD or download from Brother website.

WARNING! Use only Brother-approved labels and accessories. Do not touch print head directly.

First-Time Use

Power on printer; follow on-screen prompts from computer.

Power on: Press POWER button; LCD will display startup message.
Load labels: Ensure labels are properly aligned and sensor detects gap.
Install software: Run installer from CD or downloaded file.
Test print: Print a test label via driver settings to verify operation.

CAUTION! Keep fingers away from cutter area during operation.

Specifications

Model: Brother P-touch QL-1050.
Print Resolution: 300 dpi.
Label Width: 12mm to 62mm.
Label Length: Minimum 12mm, maximum 10 meters.
Interface: USB 2.0.
Memory: 8MB Flash ROM, 4MB RAM.
Power Consumption: 24V DC, 1.5A.
Operating Temperature: 5°C to 40°C (41°F to 104°F).
Dimensions: 153mm (W) x 179mm (D) x 141mm (H).
Weight: Approximately 1.9 kg (4.2 lbs).

Controls and Functions

Front Panel: POWER button, FEED button, LCD display, status LEDs.

LCD Messages: READY, COVER OPEN, NO PAPER, CUTTER ERROR.

Software Controls: Access via P-touch Editor or driver settings. Adjust print density, speed, and label size. Set auto-cutter mode (On/Off). Configure sensor type (gap/black mark).

Connecting to Computer

USB: Standard USB 2.0 connection.

Turn off printer and computer before connecting.
Plug USB cable into printer and computer.
Power on printer, then start computer.
Install drivers if prompted.

Tip: Use a high-quality USB cable for reliable communication.

Printing Labels

Supports text, barcodes, graphics, and sequential numbering.

Open P-touch Editor or compatible software.
Create label: Select template, enter text, add barcodes/images.
Print settings: Choose label size, print quantity, density.
Print: Click Print; printer will feed and cut label automatically.
Manual feed: Press FEED button to advance label without printing.

WARNING! Do not use wrinkled or damaged labels. Keep media dry and clean.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug printer before cleaning. Use dry, lint-free cloth to clean exterior. Clean print head with approved cleaning swab if print quality degrades.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or solvents on print head. Replace label roll when empty.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. CE marked. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit www.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Printer not powering on	Power connection	Check AC adapter connection; ensure outlet is working.
No print output	Driver/software	Reinstall drivers; check software print settings.
Labels not feeding	Media jam/sensor	Open cover, remove jam; ensure sensor is clean.
Poor print quality	Dirty print head	Clean print head with approved swab.
Cutter not working	Blunt blade/error	Check for obstructions; reset printer.

Reset: Turn off printer, wait 10 seconds, then power on.

Service: Contact Brother Customer Support or authorized service center.