Brother QL-650TD Manual

The Brother QL-650TD is a direct thermal label printer designed for high-volume, high-speed printing of shipping labels, barcodes, and tags. It features USB and Ethernet connectivity, supports various label sizes up to 4" wide, offers fast print speeds, includes P-touch Editor Lite software, and has a durable metal construction for reliable performance in office and industrial environments. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Computer/Network 7. Printing Labels 8. Software Features 9. Maintenance & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct thermal print mechanism, Control Panel (Buttons & LCD), Label cutter, USB & Ethernet ports, Roll holder, Power connector.

FeatureDescription
Print MethodDirect Thermal
Maximum Print Width4 inches (102mm)
Print SpeedUp to 150mm per second
ConnectivityUSB 2.0, Ethernet (10/100BASE-TX)
Media TypesDie-cut labels, continuous length tape, tag stock
CutterBuilt-in automatic cutter
LCD Display2-line, 16-character backlit display
Control ButtonsFEED, PAUSE, CANCEL, MENU, Arrow keys
Power SupplyInternal switching power supply
Software IncludedP-touch Editor Lite, Driver

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on a stable, level surface near a power outlet.

  1. Install the roll holder and load a label roll: Open the cover, place the roll on the holder, and thread the label under the guide.
  2. Connect to power: Plug the AC power cord into the printer and a wall outlet.
  3. Connect to computer: Use the provided USB cable to connect to your PC or Mac.
  4. Connect to network (optional): Plug an Ethernet cable into the port for network sharing.

WARNING! Ensure the printer is placed on a stable surface. Keep the area around the printer clear for ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on the printer; follow on-screen prompts on the LCD.

  1. Install software: Insert the included CD or download drivers/software from the Brother website.
  2. Configure printer settings: Use the control panel MENU to set language, default media size, and network settings if applicable.
  3. Calibrate the sensor: Perform a media sensor calibration from the menu for accurate label detection.
  4. Test print: Print a configuration label to verify installation.

CAUTION! Do not touch the print head while it is hot. Allow the printer to cool before performing maintenance.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus and functions via the front control panel. Buttons: POWER, FEED, PAUSE, CANCEL, MENU, Arrow keys (Up/Down/Left/Right), OK.

LCD Display: Shows status, error messages, and menu options.

Menu Settings: Language, Media Size, Sensor Calibration, Print Darkness, Network Configuration (IP address), Cutter Mode, Print Speed, Reset to Defaults.

Connecting to Computer/Network

USB: Standard connection for single computer. Ethernet: For shared network printing.

  1. Turn off printer before connecting cables.
  2. For USB: Connect the cable to the printer and computer. Install the driver when prompted.
  3. For Network: Connect an Ethernet cable from the printer to your router/switch. Configure the IP address via the printer menu or using the Brother software.
  4. Select the printer in your computer's printer settings (Brother QL-650TD).

Tip: For network setup, use the printer's configuration label to find its IP address.

Printing Labels

Supports printing from various applications and the included P-touch Editor software.

  1. Design a label: Use P-touch Editor or any application that supports printing.
  2. Load correct media: Ensure the label roll matches the size set in the printer driver.
  3. Send print job: Select Brother QL-650TD as the printer and click Print.
  4. Monitor status: The LCD will show "Printing" and the cutter will automatically cut the label (if enabled).
  5. Manual feed: Press the FEED button to advance the media without printing.
  6. Adjust darkness: Use the MENU > PRINT DARKNESS setting for optimal print quality.

WARNING! Use only Brother-approved thermal labels. Using incompatible media may damage the print head.

Software Features

P-touch Editor Lite: Create and design labels with text, barcodes, graphics, and sequential numbering. Driver: Provides access to printer settings from within applications. Utilities: Includes Brother Printer Setting Tool for configuration and firmware updates.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Unplug the printer before cleaning. Regularly clean the print head, roller, and sensor.

  1. Print Head: Use a cotton swab lightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the print head.
  2. Roller and Sensor: Use a dry, lint-free cloth to remove dust and debris.
  3. Exterior: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth.

CAUTION! Never use abrasive cleaners or solvents. Do not spray liquids directly onto the printer.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for business environments. CE Mark: Conforms to European directives. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-552-6255.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Printer does not power onPower connectionCheck power cord connection and outlet; ensure power switch is on.
No print output/blank labelsPrint darkness/mediaIncrease print darkness setting; ensure protective liner is removed from labels.
Paper jam or feed errorMedia loading/sensorReload media correctly; clean the media sensor; perform sensor calibration.
Printer not detected (USB)Cable/driverTry a different USB cable and port; reinstall the printer driver.
Network connection failedIP configuration/cableVerify Ethernet cable is connected; check IP settings via configuration label.
Poor print qualityDirty print head/mediaClean the print head; use recommended Brother media; adjust print darkness.

Reset: Menu > All Settings > Reset Settings to return to factory defaults.

Service: 1-877-552-6255; support.brother.com

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