Brother SE400 Embroidery Machine Manual

The Brother SE400 is a combination sewing and embroidery machine featuring a 4" x 4" embroidery area, built-in embroidery designs, USB port for importing custom designs, automatic needle threader, LCD touch screen display, quick-set drop-in bobbin, and 67 built-in sewing stitches. Below are key sections for safety, features, setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Embroidery unit, LCD touch screen, USB port, Automatic needle threader, Quick-set bobbin, Built-in embroidery designs, Sewing stitches.

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect all components. Place on stable, flat surface.

1. Remove packing materials: Take off all tape and protective covers.
2. Attach embroidery unit: Slide onto machine until it clicks into place.
3. Install foot controller: Plug into machine's front port.
4. Connect power: Plug power cord into machine, then into wall outlet.
5. Wind bobbin: Follow threading diagram to wind bobbin with thread.
6. Thread upper thread: Use automatic needle threader or manual threading.

WARNING! Keep fingers away from moving parts during operation. Ensure machine is on stable surface.

First-Time Operation

Power on machine; follow on-screen prompts.

1. Select embroidery mode: Press embroidery button on control panel.
2. Choose design: Use touch screen to select built-in design or USB design.
3. Hoop fabric: Place stabilizer and fabric in embroidery hoop securely.
4. Attach hoop: Place hoop on embroidery unit, lower presser foot.
5. Start embroidery: Press start button; machine will begin automatically.
6. Thread change: Machine will stop for color changes; follow prompts.

CAUTION! Always use embroidery hoop and stabilizer. Keep hands clear of moving needle.

Specifications

• Embroidery Area: 4" x 4" (100mm x 100mm)
• Built-in Designs: 70 embroidery designs, 5 fonts
• Sewing Stitches: 67 built-in stitches
• Needle: HAx1 SP needle (included), size 75/11
• Bobbin: Brother SA156, Class 15 plastic bobbin
• Display: 3.2" color LCD touch screen
• Connectivity: USB port for design import
• Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
• Dimensions: 18.1" x 8.7" x 14.6" (460mm x 220mm x 370mm)
• Weight: 17.6 lbs (8.0 kg)

Controls and Settings

Access functions via touch screen or physical buttons. Front Panel: Power button, Start/Stop, Needle Up/Down, Speed control slider.

Touch Screen: Design selection, Editing functions (rotate, mirror, combine), Lettering, Settings menu.

Embroidery Settings: Design size adjustment, Color change settings, Thread tension adjustment, Hoop type selection. Sewing Settings: Stitch selection, Stitch length/width, Needle position, Thread tension. System Settings: Language selection, Sound volume, Screen brightness, Machine information.

Connecting to Computer

USB connection for custom design transfer.

1. Prepare designs: Convert to PES format using Brother software.
2. Save to USB: Copy PES files to USB flash drive (FAT32 format).
3. Insert USB: Plug into machine's USB port with power off.
4. Access designs: Power on, select USB icon on touch screen.
5. Import designs: Select file to load into machine memory.

Tip: Use Brother PE-Design software for best compatibility. Maximum design size is 4" x 4".

Embroidery Operation

Supports built-in designs and custom PES files.

1. Select design: Choose from built-in, memory, or USB.
2. Edit design: Use touch screen to rotate, mirror, resize, or combine designs.
3. Hoop preparation: Use correct hoop size; apply stabilizer to fabric.
4. Thread machine: Load upper thread and bobbin with matching colors.
5. Position hoop: Attach to embroidery unit; lower presser foot.
6. Start embroidery: Press start; machine will stitch first color.
7. Color changes: Machine stops automatically; follow prompts to change thread.
8. Finishing: Remove hoop after completion; trim jump threads carefully.

WARNING! Always supervise machine during operation. Do not touch moving parts.

Sewing Functions

67 built-in stitches for various sewing projects.

1. Select sewing mode: Press sewing button on control panel.
2. Choose stitch: Scroll through stitches on touch screen.
3. Adjust settings: Modify stitch length, width, and needle position.
4. Thread machine: Use automatic needle threader for upper thread.
5. Insert bobbin: Drop bobbin into case, pull thread through slot.
6. Select presser foot: Choose appropriate foot for selected stitch.
7. Begin sewing: Place fabric, lower presser foot, press start or use foot controller.

Note: Practice on scrap fabric first. Always use correct needle and thread for fabric type.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug machine before cleaning. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

1. Daily cleaning: Remove lint from bobbin area with brush provided.
2. Needle replacement: Change needle after 8 hours of sewing or if damaged.
3. Oiling: Apply sewing machine oil to hook race periodically (see manual).
4. Exterior cleaning: Wipe with soft, dry cloth only.
5. Storage: Cover machine when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

CAUTION! Never use compressed air to clean machine. Do not immerse in water.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © Brother Industries, Ltd. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.brother-usa.com or contact 1-877-467-4289. This product is covered by Brother's limited warranty. Register your product online for extended support.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Turn machine off and on to reset electronic functions.

Service: 1-877-467-4289; www.brother-usa.com for authorized service centers.