Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your AT&T 1040 4-Line Expandable Corded Phone System. Designed for small business and home office environments, this system offers robust communication features including a speakerphone and expandability for up to 16 stations. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize the functionality of your new phone system.
Package Contents and Setup
What's in the Box
- Handset
- Base Unit
- Power Adapter
- Wall Mount Bracket
- Handset Cord
- 3 Telephone Line Cords
- User Manual (PDF available here)
Initial Setup
Follow these steps to set up your AT&T 1040 phone system:
- Connect the Handset: Plug one end of the coiled handset cord into the handset and the other end into the jack on the left side of the phone base.
- Connect Power: Plug the power adapter into the DC IN jack on the back of the phone base, then plug the other end into a standard electrical outlet.
- Connect Telephone Lines: Connect your telephone line cords to the LINE 1, LINE 2, LINE 3, and LINE 4 jacks on the back of the phone base. Connect the other ends to your wall telephone jacks.
- DSL Filter (if applicable): If you have DSL internet service on the same line as your phone, you may need to use a DSL filter (not included) to prevent interference. Connect the DSL filter between the wall jack and the phone line cord.
- Install Backup Batteries: The phone requires 1 Product Specific battery (included). Install it in the designated compartment. For power outages, using rechargeable 9V backup batteries (not included) is recommended.
- Initial Configuration: Upon first power-up, the phone may prompt you to set the date, time, and assign an extension number for the unit within your system (e.g., 11, 12, etc.). Refer to the "Operating" section for details on setting these parameters.

Figure 1: AT&T 1040 4-Line Expandable Corded Phone System. This image shows the full phone unit, including the handset, base, display screen, keypad, and various function buttons. The display shows "12:08PM 12/26" and "INTERCOM TO 16". Key features visible include the four line buttons (LINE 1-4), HOLD, CONFERENCE, INTERCOM, DO NOT DISTURB, (AUTO) REDIAL, FLASH, TRANSFER, VOLUME controls, HEADSET, MUTE, and SPEAKER buttons. The numeric keypad is also clearly visible.
Operating Instructions
Basic Call Functions
- Making a Call: Lift the handset or press the SPEAKER button. Select an available line (LINE 1-4) and dial the number.
- Receiving a Call: When the phone rings, lift the handset or press the SPEAKER button.
- Ending a Call: Place the handset back in the cradle or press the SPEAKER button again if using speakerphone.
Key Features and Buttons
- Speakerphone: Press the SPEAKER button to activate or deactivate the speakerphone function during a call. The speakerphone allows hands-free communication.
- Hold: Press the HOLD button to place an active call on hold. The line indicator light will flash. Press the line button again to resume the call.
- Conference: To initiate a 3-way conference call, establish the first call, press CONFERENCE, dial the second party, and then press CONFERENCE again to connect all parties.
- Intercom: Press the INTERCOM button to communicate with other stations within your expandable system (up to 16 stations). Dial the extension number of the desired station. To page all stations, press INTERCOM then the # key.
- Transfer: During an active call, press TRANSFER, dial the extension number or external number, and then hang up to complete the transfer.
- (AUTO) REDIAL: Press this button to redial the last number called.
- FLASH: Used for call waiting or transferring calls on some phone systems.
- DO NOT DISTURB: Press this button to silence incoming calls. The indicator light will illuminate when active. Press again to deactivate.
- Volume Control: Use the VOLUME up and down arrows to adjust the speakerphone or handset volume during a call.
- Headset Jack: The phone is compatible with 2.5mm jack headsets (not included). Plug your headset into the dedicated jack for private conversations.
- Mute: Press the MUTE button to temporarily silence your microphone during a call. The other party will not hear you. Press again to unmute.
- Speed Dial: The phone supports 32-number speed dial. Refer to the full user manual for programming instructions.
Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity of your AT&T 1040 phone system.
- Cleaning: Wipe the phone's surface with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Replacement: If using 9V backup batteries, replace them as needed. Consider using rechargeable batteries for environmental and cost benefits.
- Environmental Conditions: Avoid exposing the phone to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or excessive moisture.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your AT&T 1040 phone, try the following solutions:
- No Dial Tone / Unresponsive Dialing:
- Ensure all phone cords and the power adapter are securely connected.
- If using DSL, verify that a DSL filter is properly installed.
- Perform a hard reset: Disconnect the power adapter and all phone lines, remove any backup batteries, wait for a few minutes, then reconnect everything.
- Speakerphone Not Working:
- Check the volume settings using the VOLUME buttons.
- Ensure the MUTE function is not active.
- A hard reset (as described above) may resolve this issue.
- Intercom Issues (Screeching, Unintelligible Audio):
- Interference can cause these issues. Ensure cell phones or other electronic devices are not placed directly next to the phone.
- Try configuring non-adjacent extension numbers for your stations (e.g., 12, 16, 20, 24 instead of 11, 12, 13, 14) to potentially reduce frequency interference.
- Ensure the power adapter is plugged directly into a wall outlet, not a power strip, as some power strips can introduce noise.
- Caller ID Not Displaying (on 1040 model):
- The AT&T 1040 model does not inherently support Caller ID. This feature is available on models like the AT&T 1070.
If problems persist after attempting these solutions, consult the full user manual (link provided in "What's in the Box") or contact AT&T customer support.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | 1040 |
| Brand | AT&T |
| Telephone Type | Corded |
| Lines Supported | 4-Line |
| Expandability | Up to 16 stations |
| Speakerphone | Yes, base speakerphone |
| Headset Compatibility | 2.5mm jack |
| Speed Dial | 32-Number |
| Product Dimensions | 8 x 5 x 10 inches |
| Item Weight | 3 pounds |
| Color | Black/Silver |
| Material | Plastic |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Batteries Required | 1 Product Specific (included) |
| Dialer Type | Tone Dialing |
| Answering System Type | Digital (if applicable, though 1040 doesn't have built-in answering machine) |
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official AT&T support website. The full User Manual in PDF format is available for download here for further assistance and advanced features.
For technical support or service inquiries, please contact AT&T customer service through their official channels.





