Brother HL 1240 - B/W Laser Printer User manual

© Copyright Brother 1999
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means without permission
in writing from the publisher.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Trademarks:
The brother logo is a registered trademark of Brother Industries, Ltd.
Apple, the Apple Logo, and Macintosh are trademarks, registered in the United States and
other countries, and True Type is a trademark of Apple computer, Inc.
Epson is a registered trademark and FX-80 and FX-850 are trademarks of Seiko Epson
Corporation.
Hewlett Packard is a registered trademark and HP Laser Jet is a trademark of Hewlett Packard
Company.
IBM, IBM PC and Proprinter are registered trademarks of International Business Machines
Corporation.
Microsoft and MS-DOS are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.

PREFACE
i
PREFACE
This service manual contains basic information required for after-sales service of the laser
printer (hereinafter referred to as "this machine" or "the printer"). This information is vital to the
service technician to maintain the high printing quality and performance of the printer.
This service manual covers the HL-1240/1250 printers.
This manual consists of the following chapters:
CHAPTER 1: GENERAL
Features, specifications, etc.
CHAPTER 2: INSTALLATION AND BASIC OPERATION
Installation conditions, Installation procedures, basic operation of the printer
etc.
CHAPTER 3: THEORY OF OPERATION
Basic operation of the mechanical system, the electrical system and the
electrical circuits and their timing information.
CHAPTER 4: DISASSEMBLY AND RE-ASSEMBLY
Procedures for disassembling and re-assembling the mechanical system.
CHAPTER 5: MAINTENANCE
Periodical replacements parts, consumable parts, etc.
CHAPTER 6: TROUBLESHOOTING
Reference values and adjustments, troubleshooting image defects,
troubleshooting malfunctions, etc.
APPENDICES : Serial No. descriptions, Drum life & page counter, Diameter / circumference
of rollers, Connection diagrams, PCB circuit diagrams, etc.
Information in this manual is subject to change due to improvement or redesign of the product.
All relevant information in such cases will be supplied in service information bulletins
(Technical Information).
A thorough understanding of this printer, based on information in this service manual and
service information bulletins, is required for maintaining its print quality performance and for
improving the practical ability to find the cause of problems.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
ii
TABLE OF CONTENTS
REGULATION .............................................................................................vii
SAFETY INFORMATION .............................................................................ix
CHAPTER 1 GENERAL...........................................................................1-1
1. FEATURES..............................................................................................................1-1
2. OVERVIEW .............................................................................................................1-3
3. SPECIFICATIONS...................................................................................................1-4
3.1 Printing..............................................................................................................................1-4
3.2 Functions ..........................................................................................................................1-4
3.3 Electrical and Mechanical.................................................................................................1-5
3.4 Paper ................................................................................................................................1-6
3.4.1 Feedable paper................................................................................................................... 1-6
3.4.2 Paper cassette capacity......................................................................................................1-7
3.4.3 Print delivery....................................................................................................................... 1-8
3.5 Printing Area.....................................................................................................................1-8
3.5.1 Effective printing area.........................................................................................................1-8
3.5.2 Print guaranteed area.........................................................................................................1-9
CHAPTER 2 INSTALLATION AND BASIC OPERATION.......................2-1
1. CONDITIONS REQUIRED FOR INSTALLATION....................................................2-1
1.1 Power Supply....................................................................................................................2-1
1.2 Environment......................................................................................................................2-1
1.3 System Requirements for Brother Printer Solution for Windows®.....................................2-1
2. UNPACKING ...........................................................................................................2-2
3. INSTALL THE PRINTER..........................................................................................2-3
3.1 For Windows®Users.........................................................................................................2-3
3.2 For Windows®Users with No CD-ROM Drive...................................................................2-5
3.2.1 Install the drum unit.............................................................................................................2-5
3.2.2 Load paper.......................................................................................................................... 2-5
3.2.3 Print a test page..................................................................................................................2-5
3.2.4 Connect the printer and the computer ................................................................................2-6
3.2.5 Install the printer driver from floppy disk.............................................................................2-6
3.3 Using the USB Interface (For Windows®98 only).............................................................2-7
3.3.1 Connect the USB interface cable........................................................................................ 2-7
3.3.2 Install the USB driver..........................................................................................................2-7
3.3.3 Set the PC printer port ........................................................................................................2-9
3.4 For Macintosh (iMac and Power Macintosh) with USB Users Only..................................2-9
4. PAPER HANDLING...............................................................................................2-10
4.1 Load Paper into the Paper Cassette...............................................................................2-10
4.2 Load Paper Manually......................................................................................................2-10

TABLE OF CONTENTS
iii
4.3 Two Side Printing (Manual Duplexing)............................................................................2-11
4.3.1 To print on both sides of the paper from the paper cassette ............................................2-11
4.3.2 To print on both sides of the paper from the manual feed slot..........................................2-12
5. CONTROL PANEL OPERATION...........................................................................2-13
5.1 Ready (Paper) LED Indications ......................................................................................2-13
5.2 Data (Toner) LED Indications .........................................................................................2-14
5.3 Drum LED Indications.....................................................................................................2-14
5.4 Alarm LED Indications ....................................................................................................2-14
5.5 Control Panel Button Operations....................................................................................2-15
5.6 Other Control Features...................................................................................................2-15
5.6.1 Sleep mode.......................................................................................................................2-15
5.6.2 Test print mode.................................................................................................................2-16
CHAPTER 3 THEORY OF OPERATION.................................................3-1
1. ELECTRONICS .......................................................................................................3-1
1.1 General Block Diagram.....................................................................................................3-1
1.2 Main PCB Block Diagram .................................................................................................3-3
1.3 Main PCB..........................................................................................................................3-5
1.3.1 ASIC....................................................................................................................................3-5
1.3.2 ROM....................................................................................................................................3-8
1.3.3 DRAM..................................................................................................................................3-9
1.3.4 Optional RAM.................................................................................................................... 3-11
1.3.5 Optional serial I/O.............................................................................................................3-12
1.3.6 EEPROM........................................................................................................................... 3-12
1.3.7 Reset circuit...................................................................................................................... 3-13
1.3.8 Engine I/O......................................................................................................................... 3-14
1.4 Engine PCB ....................................................................................................................3-14
1.5 Power Supply..................................................................................................................3-15
1.5.1 Low-voltage Power Supply ............................................................................................... 3-15
1.5.2 High-voltage Power Supply............................................................................................... 3-16
2. MECHANICS.........................................................................................................3-17
2.1 Overview of Printing Mechanism ....................................................................................3-17
2.2 Paper Transfer................................................................................................................3-19
2.2.1 Paper supply.....................................................................................................................3-19
2.2.2 Paper registration..............................................................................................................3-19
2.2.3 Paper eject........................................................................................................................ 3-20
2.3 Sensors...........................................................................................................................3-20
2.3.1 Cover sensors A and B.....................................................................................................3-20
2.3.2 Toner sensor.....................................................................................................................3-21
2.4 Drum Unit........................................................................................................................3-21
2.4.1 Photosensitive drum .........................................................................................................3-21
2.4.2 Primary charger ................................................................................................................ 3-21
2.4.3 Transfer roller....................................................................................................................3-21
2.4.5 Cleaner ............................................................................................................................. 3-21
2.5 Toner Cartridge...............................................................................................................3-21
2.6 Print Process...................................................................................................................3-22
2.6.1 Charging ........................................................................................................................... 3-22

TABLE OF CONTENTS
iv
2.6.2 Exposure stage.................................................................................................................3-22
2.6.3 Developing........................................................................................................................3-23
2.6.4 Transfer............................................................................................................................. 3-24
2.6.5 Fixing stage.......................................................................................................................3-24
CHAPTER 4 DISASSEMBLY AND RE-ASSEMBLY ..............................4-1
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS........................................................................................4-1
2. DISASSEMBLY FLOW............................................................................................4-2
3. DISASSEMBLY PROCEDURE................................................................................4-3
3.1 AC Cord............................................................................................................................4-3
3.2 Drum Unit..........................................................................................................................4-3
3.3 Paper Cassette.................................................................................................................4-4
3.4 Front Cover.....................................................................................................................4-10
3.5 Top Cover.......................................................................................................................4-11
3.6 Main Cover......................................................................................................................4-12
3.7 Laser Unit........................................................................................................................4-13
3.8 Drive Unit........................................................................................................................4-14
3.9 Fixing Unit.......................................................................................................................4-17
3.10 Base Plate.......................................................................................................................4-25
3.11 Main PCB ASSY.............................................................................................................4-26
3.12 Lower Tray Relay PCB ASSY (HL-1250 only)................................................................4-26
3.13 Low-voltage Power Supply PCB ASSY ..........................................................................4-27
3.14 Engine PCB ASSY / High-voltage Power Supply PCB ASSY ........................................4-28
3.15 Panel PCB ASSY............................................................................................................4-30
3.16 Solenoid ASSY ...............................................................................................................4-30
3.17 Fan Motor ASSY.............................................................................................................4-33
3.18 Toner Sensor PCB ASSY (Light Emission) ....................................................................4-34
3.19 Toner Sensor PCB ASSY (Light Reception)...................................................................4-34
3.20 Paper Pick-up Roller ASSY ............................................................................................4-35
3.21 Paper Feed Roller ASSY................................................................................................4-36
4. PACKING ..............................................................................................................4-37
CHAPTER 5 PERIODIC MAINTENANCE ...............................................5-1
1. CONSUMABLE PARTS...........................................................................................5-1
1.1 Drum Unit..........................................................................................................................5-1
1.2 Toner Cartridge.................................................................................................................5-2
2. PERIODICAL REPLACEMENT PARTS...................................................................5-4
3. PERIODICAL CLEANING........................................................................................5-5
3.1 Cleaning the Printer Exterior.............................................................................................5-5
3.2 Cleaning the Drum Unit.....................................................................................................5-5
3.3 Cleaning the Scanner Window..........................................................................................5-6
3.4 Cleaning the Electrical Terminals .....................................................................................5-6
4. MTBF / MTTR..........................................................................................................5-7

TABLE OF CONTENTS
v
CHAPTER 6 TROUBLESHOOTING........................................................6-1
1. INTRODUCTION .....................................................................................................6-1
1.1 Initial Check ......................................................................................................................6-1
1.2 Warnings for Maintenance Work.......................................................................................6-2
1.3 Identify the Problem..........................................................................................................6-3
2. OPERATOR CALLS & SERVICE CALLS ................................................................6-4
2.1 Operator Calls...................................................................................................................6-4
2.2 Service Calls.....................................................................................................................6-4
3. ERROR MESSAGES...............................................................................................6-6
3.1 Error Messages in the Status Monitor ..............................................................................6-6
3.2 Error Message Printouts...................................................................................................6-8
4. PAPER PROBLEMS................................................................................................6-9
4.1 Paper Load Problems.......................................................................................................6-9
4.2 Paper Jams.....................................................................................................................6-10
4.2.1 Clearing the jammed paper............................................................................................... 6-10
4.2.2 Causes & countermeasures.............................................................................................. 6-11
4.3 Paper Feeding Problems................................................................................................6-12
5. SOFTWARE SETTING PROBLEMS .....................................................................6-14
6. MALFUNCTIONS...................................................................................................6-18
7. IMAGE DEFECTS..................................................................................................6-23
7.1 Image Defect Examples..................................................................................................6-23
7.2 Troubleshooting Image Defect........................................................................................6-24
7.3 Location of Grounding Contacts .....................................................................................6-41
7.3.1 Drum unit .......................................................................................................................... 6-41
7.3.2 Printer body & paper cassette........................................................................................... 6-41
8. INCORRECT PRINTOUT ......................................................................................6-42
9. INSPECTION MODE.............................................................................................6-45
9.1 Test Print Mode...............................................................................................................6-45
9.2 Inspection Mode..............................................................................................................6-46
APPENDICES
1. SERIAL NO. DESCRIPTIONS................................................................................ A-1
2. DIAMETER / CIRCUMFERENCE OF ROLLERS.................................................... A-3
3. PRINT SPEEDS WITH VARIOUS SETTINGS........................................................ A-4
4. HOW TO KNOW DRUM UNIT LIFE & PAGE COUNTER ...................................... A-5
5. HOW TO USE THE SELF-DIAGNOSTICS TOOLS ............................................. A-10
6. NVRAM DEFAULT VALUE................................................................................... A-14
7. PAPER CASSETTE INFORMATION (FOR EUROPE ONLY)............................... A-15
8. CONNECTION DIAGRAM, HL-1240..................................................................... A-16
9. CONNECTION DIAGRAM, HL-1250..................................................................... A-17
10. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1240 (1/2).................................................... A-18

TABLE OF CONTENTS
vi
11. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1240 (2/2).................................................... A-19
12. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1250 (1/5).................................................... A-20
13. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1250 (2/5).................................................... A-21
14. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1250 (3/5).................................................... A-22
15. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1250 (4/5).................................................... A-23
16. MAIN PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM, HL-1250 (5/5).................................................... A-24
17. ENGINE PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM....................................................................... A-25
18. LOW-VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM (110 - 120V) ........ A-26
19. LOW-VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM (220 - 240V) ........ A-27
20. HIGH-VOLTAGE POWER SUPPLY PCB CIRCUIT DIAGRAM ............................ A-28
INDEX

REGULATION
vii
REGULATION
LASER SAFETY (110 - 120V MODEL ONLY)
This printer is certified as a Class Ilaser product under the US Department of Health and
Human Services (DHHS) Radiation Performance Standard according to the Radiation
Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968. This means that the printer does not produce
hazardous laser radiation.
Since radiation emitted inside the printer is completely confined within the protective
housing and external covers. the laser beam cannot escape form the machine during any
phase of user operation.
FDA REGULATIONS (110 - 120V MODEL ONLY)
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has implemented regulations for laser
products manufactured on and after August 2, 1976. Compliance is mandatory for
products marketed in the United States. One of the following labels on the back of the
printer indicates compliance with the FDA regulations and must be attached to laser
products marketed in the United States.
The label for Japanese manufactured products
MANUFACTURED: K
BROTHER INDUSTRIES, LTD.
15-1, Naeshiro-cho, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya 467-8561,
Japan.
This product complies with FDA radiation performance
standards, 21 CFR Subchapter J.
The label for Chinese manufactured products
MANUFACTURED: C
BROTHER Corporation (Asia) Ltd.
Shenzen Buji Nan Ling Factory
Gold Garden Ind., Nan Ling Village, Buji, Rong Gang,
Shenzen, CHINA
This product complies with FDA radiation performance
standards, 21 CFR Subchapter J.
Caution
Use of controls, adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified in
this manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure.

REGULATION
viii
IEC 825 (220-240V MODEL ONLY)
This printer is a Class Ilaser product as defined in IEC 825 specifications. The label
shown below is attached in countries where required.
CLASS 1 LASER PRODUCT
APPAREIL LASER DE CLASSE 1
LASER KLASSE 1 PRODUKT
This printer has a laser diode which emits invisible laser radiation in the Laser Unit. The
Laser Unit should not be opened without disconnecting the two connectors connected with
the AC power supply and laser unit. Since the variable resistor in the laser unit is adjusted
in accordance with the standards, never touch it.
Caution
Use of controls, adjustments or performance of procedures other than those specified in
this manual may result in hazardous radiation exposure.
For Finland and Sweden
LUOKAN 1 LASERLAITE
KLASS 1 LASER APPARAT
Varoitus! Laitteen käyttäminen muulla kuin tässä käyttöohjeessa mainitulla tavalla saattaa
altistaa käyttäjän turvallisuusluokan 1 ylittävälle näkymättömälle lasersäteilylle.
Varning – Om apparaten används på annat sätt än i denna Bruksanvisning specificerats,
kan användaren utsättas för osynlig laserstrålning, som överskrider gränsen för laserklass
1.

SAFETY INFORMATION
ix
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAUTION FOR LASER PRODUCT (WARNHINWEIS FUR LASER DRUCKER)
CAUTION: When the machine during servicing is operated with the cover open, the
regulations of VBG 93 and the performance instructions for VBG 93 are
valid.
CAUTION: In case of any trouble with the laser unit, replace the laser unit itself. To
prevent direct exposure to the laser beam, do not try to open the enclosure
of the laser unit.
ACHTUNG: Im Falle von Störungen der Lasereinheit muß diese ersetzt werden. Das
Gehäuse der Lasereinheit darf nicht geöffnet werden, da sonst
Laserstrahlen austreten können.
<Location of the laser beam window>
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
When servicing the optical system of the printer, be careful not to place a screwdriver or
other reflective object in the path of the laser beam. Be sure to take off any personal
accessories such as watches and rings before working on the printer. A reflected beam,
though invisible, can permanently damage the eyes.
Since the beam is invisible, the following caution label is attached on the laser unit.
CAUTION
INVISIBLE LASER RADIATION WHEN OPEN AND INTERLOCK DEFEATED.
AVOID DIRECT EXPOSURE TO BEAM. CLASS 3B LASER PRODUCT.
ADVARSEL
USYNLIG LASER STRÅLING NÅR KABINETLÅGET STÅR ÅBENT.
UNGDÅ DIREKTE UDSÆTTELSE FOR STRÅLING. KLASSE 3B LASER.
VARNING
OSYNLIG LASERSTRÅLNING NÄR DENNA DEL ÄR ÖPPNAD OCH SPÄRRAR
ÄR URKOPPLADE. STRÅLEN ÄR FARLIG. KLASS 3B LASER APPARAT.
VARO!
AVATTAESSA JA SUOJALUKITUS OHITETTAESSA OLET ALTTIINA
NÄKYMÄTTÖMÄLLE LASERSÄTEILYLLE. ÄLÄ KATSO SÄTEESEEN. LUOKAN
3B LASERLAITE.
ADVARSEL
USYNLIG LASERSTRÅLING.UNNGÅ DIREKTE KONTAKT MED LASERENHETEN
NÅR TOPPDEKSELET ER ÅPENT. KLASSE 3B LASERPRODUKT.
ATTENTION
RADIATIONS LASER INVISIBLES QUANDOUVERT ET VERROUILLAGE ENLEVE.
EVITER EXPOSITIONS DIRECTES AU FAISCEAU. PRODUIT LASER CLASSE 3B.
VORSICHT
UNSICHTBARE LASERSTRAHLUNG WENN ABDECKUNG
GEÖFFENT UND SICHERHEITSVERRIEGELUNG
ÜBERBRÜCKT. NICHT DEM STRAHL AUSSETZEN.
SICHERHEITSKLASSE 3B.
ATENCIÓN
RADIACIÓN LASER INVISIBLE CUANDO SE ABRE
LA TAPA Y EL INTERRUPTOR INTERNO ESTÁ
ATASCADO. EVITE LA EXPOSICIÓN DIRECTA
DE LOS OJOS. PRODUCTO LASER CLASE 3B.

SAFETY INFORMATION
x
DEFINITIONS OF WARNINGS, CAUTIONS AND NOTES
The following conventions are used in this service manual:
WARNING
Indicates warnings that must be observed to prevent possible personal injury.
!
CAUTION:
Indicates cautions that must be observed to service the printer properly or prevent damage
to the printer.
NOTE:
Indicates notes and useful tips to remember when servicing the printer.
**Listed below are the various kinds of “WARNING” messages included in this manual.
WARNING
Always turn off the power switch and unplug the power cord from the power outlet
before accessing any parts inside the printer.
WARNING
Some parts inside the printer are extremely hot immediately after the printer is used.
When opening the front cover or rear cover to access any parts inside the printer,
never touch the red colored parts shown in the following figures.
WARNING
If you analyze malfunctions with the power plug inserted into the power outlet,
special caution should be exercised even if the power switch is OFF because it is a
single pole switch.

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-1
CHAPTER1 GENERAL
1. FEATURES
This printer has the following features;
High Resolution and Fast Print Speed
<HL-1240>
True 600 x 600 dots per inch (dpi) (GDI mode), true 300 x 300 dots per inch (dpi) (PCL mode)
with microfine toner and up to 12 pages per minute (ppm) print speed (A4 or Letter paper).
<HL-1250>
True 600 x 600 dots per inch (dpi) and 1200 x 600 dpi for graphics with microfine toner and 12
pages per minutes (ppm) print speed (A4 or Letter paper).
Versatile Paper Handling
The printer loads paper automatically from the paper cassette. The paper cassette can hold
A4, letter, B5, Executive A5 and A6 sizes of paper. The manual feed slot allows manual paper
loading sheet by sheet so you can use a variety of types and sizes of paper.
Front Operation
Basic operation of the printer can be controlled from the front panel.
Enhanced Printing Performance and User-Friendly Operation for Windows

The dedicated printer driver for Microsoft

Windows

95/98, Windows

3.1 and Windows

NT
4.0 are available on the CD-ROM supplied with your printer. You can easily install them into
your Windows

system using our installer program. The driver supports our unique
compression mode to enhance printing speed in Windows

applications and allows you to
choose various printer settings including toner save mode, custom paper size, sleep mode,
gray scale adjustment, resolution, water mark and many layout functions. You can easily
setup these print options through the Printer Setup Menu.
Printer Status Monitor with Bi-directional Parallel Interface
The printer driver can monitor the status of your printer using bi-directional parallel
communications. IEEE-1284 bi-directional parallel printer cable is recommended.
The printer status monitor program can show the current status of your printer. When printing,
the animated dialog box appears on your computer screen to show the current printing
process. If an error occurs, a dialog box will appear to let you know what to correct. If you
have turned on the interactive Help ( Windows 95/98 only) you can get visual guidance on your
PC screen on the actions in the event of certain printer errors.
Quick Print Setup
The Quick Print Setup is a convenient utility to allow you to make changes to frequently used
driver settings easily without having to open the printer properties selection box every time. It
is launched automatically when this printer driver is selected. You can change the settings by
clicking on the icon with the right mouse button.
Enhanced Memory Management
The printer provides its own data compression technology in its printer hardware and the
supplied printer driver software, which can automatically compress graphic data and font data
efficiently into the printer’s memory. You can avoid memory errors and print most full page 600
dpi graphic and text data, including large fonts, with the standard printer memory.

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-2
USB Interface (for Windows

98, iMac and Power Macintosh G3 Using USB)
The printer can be connected using the Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface to a PC or Mac
which has a USB interface. Drivers that allow you to use the USB port are provided on the
CD-ROM supplied with the printer.
Remote Printer Console Program for DOS
The utility program, Remote Printer Console (RPC), is available on the CD-ROM supplied with
your printer. When you operate your computer in a DOS (Disk Operating System)
environment, this program allows you to easily change the default settings of the printer such
as fonts, page setup and emulations.
This program also provides a status monitor program, which is a Terminate-and-Stay Resident
(TSR) program. It can monitor the printer status while running in the background and report
the current status or errors on your computer screen.
Popular Printer Emulation Support
These printers support the following printer emulation modes;
The HL-1240 supports HP LaserJet IIP.
The HL-1250 supports HP LaserJet 6P (PCL6), Epson FX-850 and IBM Proprinter XL. When
you use DOS application software or Windows

version 3.0 or earlier, you can use any of
these emulations to operate the HL-1250 printer. The printer also supports auto-emulation
switching between HP and Epson or HP and IBM. If you want to set the printer emulation, you
can do it using the Remote Printer Console Program.
High Resolution Control & Advanced Photoscale Technology (for HL-1250 only)
High Resolution Control (HRC) technology provides clear and crisp printouts. Use this function
to get smooth text print quality.
Advanced Photoscale Technology (APT) enables the printer to print graphics in 256
grayscales, producing nearly photographic quality. Use this function when you want to print
photographic images.
Environment-Friendly
<Economy Printing Mode>
This feature will cut your printing cost by saving toner. It is useful for obtaining draft copies for
proof-reading. You can select from two economy modes, 25% toner saving and 50% toner
saving, through the Windows

printer driver supplied with your printer.
<Sleep Mode (Power Save Mode)>
Sleep mode automatically reduces power consumption when the printer is not in use for a
certain period of time. The printer consumes less than 5W (HL-1240) or 6W (HL-1250) when
in sleep mode.
<Low Running Cost>
Since the toner cartridge is separate from the drum unit, you need to replace only the toner
cartridge after around 3,000 pages for the standard cartridge and around 6,000 pages for the
optional high-capacity cartridge, which is both cost both effective and ecologically friendly.
Bar Code Print (for HL-1250 only)
The printer can print the following 11 types of bar codes;

Code 39

US-PostNet

EAN-8

Code 128

ISBN

EAN-13

Interleaved 2 of 5

UPC-A

EAN-128

Codabar

UPC-E

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-3
2. OVERVIEW
<Front View>
Fig. 1-1
<Rear View>
Fig. 1-2
Fig. 1-3
HL-1240
HL-1250
Output tray
Manual feed paper guides
Paper cassette
Control panel
Tray extension flap
Front cover
Power switch
Manual feed slot
Rear cover
Paper indicator
USB interface connector
Power switch
Parallel interface connector
Rear cover
AC power inlet
USB interface connector
Modular jack for Lower Tray Unit
AC power inlet
Parallel interface connector

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-4
3. SPECIFICATIONS
3.1 Printing
Print method Electrophotography by semiconductor laser beam scanning
Laser Wave length: 780 nm
Output: 5mW max
Resolution HL-1240: 600 x 600 dots/inch (GDI)
300 x 300 dots/inch (under DOS or other operating
system)
HL-1250: 1200(H) x 600(V) dots/inch (for Windows

DIB
graphics)
600 x 600 dots/inch (for Windows

and DOS)
300 x 300 dots/inch (under Apple Macintosh using the
optional RS-100M)
Print quality Normal printing mode
Economy printing mode (up to 25% and 50% toner saving)
Print speed Up to 12 pages/minute*
(when loading A4 or Letter-size paper from the paper cassette.)
Warm-up Max. 45 seconds at 23  C (73.4  F)
First print 15 seconds
(when loading A4 or Letter-size paper from the paper cassette.)
Print media Toner cartridge
Life expectancy: 3,000 pages/cartridge (Standard cartridge)
6,000 pages/cartridge (High-capacity cartridge)
(when printing A4 or Letter-size paper at 5% print coverage)
Developer Drum unit
Life expectancy: 20,000 pages/drum unit
*NOTE:
Print speed varies depending on the paper size or media type. For details, refer to APPENDIX
3 ‘PRINT SPEEDS WITH VARIOUS SETTINGS’.
3.2 Functions
CPU HL-1240: MB86833 66MHz
HL-1250: MB86832 66MHz
Emulation HL-1240: Brother Printing Solution for Windows

HP LaserJet IIP (PCL level 4)
HL-1250: Brother Printing Solution for Windows

Automatic emulation selection among HP LaserJet 6P
(PCL level 6), EPSON FX-850 or IBM Proprinter XL

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-5
Printer driver  Windows

3.1/3.11, Windows

95/98, Windows

NT 4.0 driver:
supporting Brother Native Compression mode
 Windows

3.1/3.11, Windows

95/98 driver: supporting bi-
directional capacity
 iMac, Power Macintosh G3 with USB printer driver
 Optional Macintosh driver available for System 6.0.7 or higher
(for HL-1250 only)
Interface  Bi-directional parallel
 Universal Serial Bus (USB)
 Optional RS-422A/RS-232C serial (RS-100M) available (for HL-
1250 only)
Memory HL-1240: 2.0 Mbytes
HL-1250: 4.0 Mbytes
Expandable up to 36 Mbytes by installing an industry
standard SIMM
Control panel 1 button and 4 LEDs
Diagnostics Self-diagnostic program
3.3 Electrical and Mechanical
Power source U.S.A. and Canada: AC 110 to 120V, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Europe and Australia: AC 220 to 240V, 50 Hz/60 Hz
Power consumption Printing (peak)*: 940 W or less
Printing (average): 340 W or less
Standing by: 80 W or less
Sleep*: 5 W or less (HL-1240) / 6 W or less (HL-1250)
Noise Printing: 49 dB A or less
Standing by: 27 dB A or less
Temperature Operating: 10 to 32.5  C (50 to 90.5  F)
Non operating: 0 to 40  C (38 to 104  F)
Storage: -20 to 40  C (-4 to 104  F)
Humidity Operating: 20 to 80% (non condensing)
Storage: 10 to 85% (non condensing)
Dimensions A4 paper cassette installed: 360 x 370 x 235 mm
(W x D x H) (14.2 x 14.6 x 9.3 inches)
Legal paper cassette installed: 360 x 430 x 235 mm
(14.2 x 16.9 x 9.3 inches)
A4 lower paper cassette installed: 360 x 370 x 345 mm
(HL-1250 only) (14.2 x 14.6 x 13.6 inches)
Legal lower paper cassette installed: 360 x 430 x 345 mm
(HL-1250 only) (14.2 x 16.9 x 13.6 inches)
Weight Approx. 9.2 kg (20.2 lb.) including the drum unit.
Approx. 12.7 kg (27.9 lb.) including the drum unit and Lower Tray unit.

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-6
*NOTE:

The peak figure of power consumption is worked out when the halogen heater lamp is
turned ON.

The peak figure of power consumption is worked out excluding inrush current value.

The peak figure of power consumption is a reference value and should be used internally at
Brother offices only.

The power consumption figure quoted for sleep mode is when the fan has stopped.
3.4 Paper
3.4.1 Feedable paper
(1) Type & size
Feeding source Paper type Paper size
Paper cassette Normal paper
Transparencies A4, Letter, B5 (ISO), A5, A6, Executive, Legal*
Manual feed slot Normal paper A4, Letter, B5 (JIS/ISO), A5, A6, Executive, Legal
70-216 x 116-356 mm
(2.75-8.5 x 4.57-14 inches)
Envelopes DL, C5, COM10, Monarch, B5 (ISO)
Organizers J, K, L sizes of DAY-TIMER
Labels A4, Letter
Transparencies A4, Letter
Other sizes 70-216 x 116-356 mm (2.75-8.5 x 4.57-14 inches)
Optional lower
paper cassette
( HL-1250 only)
Normal paper
Transparencies A4, Letter, B5 (ISO), A5, Executive, Legal*
*NOTE:
Legal-size paper can be printed with the standard paper cassette or the optional lower cassette
for the US and Canada models only.
(2) Other paper specifications
<Paper Cassette> Cut sheet
Basis weight 64 to 105 g/m2(17 to 28 lb.)
Caliper 0.08 to 0.13 mm (0.003 to 0.005 in.)
Moisture content 4% to 6% by weight
<Manual Feed Slot> Cut sheet Envelope
Basis weight 64 to 158 g/m2(17 to 43 lb.) 75 to 90 g/m2(20 to 24 lb.)
single thickness
Caliper 0.08 to 0.2 mm (0.003 to 0.008 in.) 0.084 to 0.14 mm (0.003 to 0.005 in.)
single thickness
Moisture content 4% to 6% by weight 4% to 6% by weight

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-7
(3) Recommended paper
 Letter: Xerox 4200 (75 g/m2)
 A4: Xerox 80 Premier Paper (80 g/m2)
 Label: Avery laser label or equivalent
 Transparency: 3M CG3300 or equivalent
!
CAUTION:
When you are choosing print media, be sure to follow the information given below to prevent
any paper jams, print quality problems or printer damage;

It is recommended to use long-grained paper for the best print quality. If short-grained
paper is being used, it might be the cause of paper jams.

Use neutral paper. Do not use acid paper to avoid any damage to the drum unit.

Avoid using coated paper such as vinyl coated paper.

Avoid using preprinted or highly textured paper.

It is recommended to use labels or transparencies which are designed for use in laser
printers.

Avoid feeding labels with the carrier sheet exposed, or the printer will be damaged.

Before loading paper with holes such as organizer sheets, be sure to fan the stack well.

Do not use organizer sheets that are stuck together. The glue that is used might caused
damaged to the printer.

When printing on the back of pre-printed paper, if the paper is curled, be sure to straighten
the paper as much as possible.

Different types of paper should not be loaded at the same time in the paper cassette to
avoid any paper jams or misfeeds.
3.4.2 Paper cassette capacity
(1) Maximum load height
Paper cassette:
<Normal paper> Up to 27mm (1.06 inches) in height
(250 sheets of 80 g/m2A4/Letter paper)
<Transparencies> 10 sheets
(2) Paper feed conditions
Type Weight Cassette Manual feed
(1 sheet)
Normal paper (cut sheet) 64 to 80 g/m2
(250 sheet) 
158 g/m2✕
Labels ✕
Special paper (cut sheet) Envelopes ✕
Organizers ✕

CHAPTER 1 GENERAL
1-8
3.4.3 Print delivery
(1) Output tray stacking
capacity: Maximum 150 sheets (80 g/m2)
face-down only
(2) Straight paper path output at the rear of the printer
capacity: 1 sheet **Thicker paper printing is recommended.
face-up only
NOTE:

When using the straight paper path feed and the rear output method for thicker paper
printing, lift up the rear cover at the rear of the printer.

Face-down: Delivery with the printed face of the paper downwards.
Face-up: Delivery with the printed face of the paper upwards.
3.5 Printing Area
3.5.1 Effective printing area
The effective printing area means the area within which the printing of all the data received
without any omissions can be guaranteed.
4.23mm
4.23mm
208mm
2,400 (80 characters)
25 25
NOTE:

The units in the above figure are dot size
based on 300 dpi resolution.

25 dots at both sides is for italic characters.
(1)Supported by the engine (2)Supported by the emulation