Brother TD-4000 Manual

The Brother TD-4000 is a high-performance direct thermal label printer designed for industrial and commercial use, featuring fast print speeds, wide media compatibility, and robust connectivity options including USB, Ethernet, and serial interfaces. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Direct thermal print mechanism, LCD control panel, Media compartment, Power supply, Interface ports (USB, Ethernet, Serial).

Feature	Description
Print Method	Direct thermal
Print Speed	Up to 8 inches per second
Maximum Print Width	4.09 inches (104 mm)
Media Compatibility	Labels, tags, receipts, continuous paper
Connectivity	USB 2.0, Ethernet 10/100BASE-TX, Serial RS-232
LCD Panel	2-line backlit display for status and settings
Media Sensor	Reflective and transmissive for gap/black mark detection
Cutter Option	Built-in automatic cutter (optional)
Power Requirements	100-240V AC, 50/60Hz
Operating Environment	41°F to 95°F (5°C to 35°C)

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable, level surface.

1. Remove all packaging materials and tape from printer.
2. Connect interface cable: Use USB, Ethernet, or serial cable to connect to host computer.
3. Connect power cord: Plug into AC outlet and printer power port.
4. Load media: Open media compartment and insert roll.
5. Install driver: Use included CD or download from Brother website.

WARNING! Do not place near heat sources or in direct sunlight. Ensure proper ventilation.

First-Time Setup

Power on printer; follow initialization sequence.

1. Power on: Press POWER button; printer performs self-test.
2. Configure media: Use FEED button to calibrate media sensor.
3. Set communication: Configure interface settings via control panel or software.
4. Test print: Print configuration label to verify operation.
5. Adjust settings: Configure print darkness, speed, and media type.

CAUTION! Handle print head with care; avoid touching heating elements.

Specifications

• Print Resolution: 203 dpi (8 dots/mm) or 300 dpi (12 dots/mm) models.
• Memory: 8 MB DRAM, 4 MB Flash ROM.
• Media Width: 0.47" to 4.33" (12 mm to 110 mm).
• Media Thickness: 0.0024" to 0.0098" (0.06 mm to 0.25 mm).
• Roll Diameter: Up to 5.1" (130 mm) outer diameter.
• Interface: USB, Ethernet, Serial (RS-232), Parallel (optional).
• Emulations: Brother Raster Command (BRML), Line mode, ESC/P.
• Dimensions: 7.5" (W) × 9.8" (D) × 7.9" (H).
• Weight: Approximately 6.6 lbs (3.0 kg).
• Power Consumption: Approx. 24W (printing), 7W (standby).

Controls and Settings

Access functions via control panel buttons and LCD display.

Control Panel: POWER, FEED, PAUSE, CANCEL, MENU, UP/DOWN arrows, ENTER.

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

Menu Settings: Print darkness (1-15), Print speed, Media type, Sensor calibration, Communication settings, Factory reset, Self-test.

Software Configuration: Use Brother P-touch Editor or integrated driver settings.

Connecting Devices

Connect to computer or network using available interfaces.

1. USB: Connect USB cable to computer and printer (supports Plug and Play).
2. Ethernet: Connect Ethernet cable to network router/switch and printer.
3. Serial: Connect RS-232 cable to computer serial port (configure baud rate).
4. Parallel: Optional interface card for parallel connection.

Tip: Configure IP address via control panel for Ethernet connection.

Loading Media

Supports roll media (labels, tags, receipts).

1. Open media compartment: Press latch and lift cover.
2. Insert media roll: Place roll on spindle with media feeding from bottom.
3. Thread media: Pull media under media guide and through print mechanism.
4. Close cover: Ensure media is properly aligned.
5. Calibrate sensor: Press FEED button to auto-calibrate.
6. Adjust media sensor: Use control panel to set for gap or black mark detection.

WARNING! Use only recommended media; improper media can damage print head.

Printer Configuration

Configure printer settings for optimal performance.

1. Print darkness: Adjust for media type (lighter for sensitive media).
2. Print speed: Balance speed with print quality requirements.
3. Media calibration: Recalibrate when changing media type.
4. Sensor settings: Configure for gap, black mark, or continuous media.
5. Communication: Set protocol, baud rate, IP address as needed.
6. Factory reset: Restore default settings if needed.

Care & Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Clean print head: Use isopropyl alcohol and lint-free swab monthly.
2. Clean rollers: Use damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
3. Clean sensors: Use compressed air to remove dust from media sensors.
4. Inspect platen roller: Replace if worn or damaged.
5. Update firmware: Check Brother website for updates.

CAUTION! Unplug printer before cleaning. Never use abrasive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for commercial use. CE Mark: Complies with European directives. RoHS: Compliant with restriction of hazardous substances. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. For support, visit support.brother.com or contact Brother Customer Service at 1-877-276-8437.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Power cord/outlet	Check power connection; try different outlet; ensure power switch on.
No communication	Cable/settings	Check cable connections; verify communication settings match host.
Poor print quality	Print head/media	Clean print head; adjust print darkness; use recommended media.
Media not feeding	Sensor/loading	Recalibrate media sensor; ensure proper loading; check for obstructions.
Paper jam	Media path	Clear jammed media; check for debris in media path.
Error messages	Various	Refer to error code in manual; perform suggested corrective action.

Reset: Press and hold CANCEL while powering on to reset to defaults.

Service: 1-877-276-8437; support.brother.com