1. Introduction
The Avaya 1608-I IP Phone is designed to provide essential communication features for users with moderate call volume. This cost-effective device offers a reliable and enhanced experience for various professional environments, including sales staff and cubicle workers. This manual provides instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Avaya 1608-I IP Phone.
2. Setup
Follow these steps to properly set up your Avaya 1608-I IP Phone.
2.1 Unpacking and Physical Placement
Carefully remove all components from the packaging. The phone includes a dual-position flip stand, allowing you to adjust the viewing angle for optimal comfort. Place the phone on a stable, flat surface.

Figure 1: Avaya 1608-I IP Phone. This image displays the phone from an angled perspective, showing the handset resting in its cradle, the alphanumeric keypad, fixed feature keys, navigation cluster, and the monochrome display screen. The phone is supported by its integrated flip stand.
2.2 Connecting the Phone
- Connect the Handset: Plug the coiled cord from the handset into the handset port on the left side of the phone base.
- Connect the Ethernet Cable: Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the LAN port on the back of the phone and the other end to your network switch or router. The Avaya 1608-I supports Power over Ethernet (PoE) 802.3af Class 2, which can power the phone directly through the Ethernet connection.
- Connect to PC (Optional): If you wish to connect a computer through the phone, connect an Ethernet cable from your computer to the PC port on the back of the phone.
- Connect Power Adapter (If not using PoE): If PoE is not available, connect a compatible local power supply (sold separately) to the power port on the back of the phone and then to an electrical outlet.
- Connect Headset (Optional): If using a headset, plug it into the dedicated headset interface port.
2.3 Initial Boot-up
Once connected, the phone will power on and begin its boot-up sequence. The display will show various status messages as it connects to the network and registers with your Avaya communication system. This process may take a few minutes.
3. Operating Instructions
This section details the primary functions and features of your Avaya 1608-I IP Phone.
3.1 Phone Layout and Key Functions
The Avaya 1608-I features a white backlit 3.5-inch display with 3 rows by 24 characters. It includes eight line appearances, each with dual red and green LEDs to indicate status.
- Line Appearance Buttons: Located next to the display, these buttons represent your phone lines or programmable features. Dual LEDs (red/green) indicate line status (e.g., active, on hold, ringing).
- Fixed Feature Keys: Dedicated buttons for common functions:
- MESSAGE: Accesses your voicemail.
- PHONE: Returns to the main phone screen.
- MENU: Accesses phone settings and options.
- CONTACTS: Opens your phone's contact directory.
- CALL LOG: Displays a list of recent incoming, outgoing, and missed calls.
- REDIAL: Dials the last number called.
- SPEAKER: Activates or deactivates the speakerphone.
- MUTE: Mutes your microphone during a call.
- VOLUME: Adjusts the volume for the handset, headset, or speakerphone.
- HEADSET: Activates or deactivates the headset.
- HOLD: Places an active call on hold.
- TRANSFER: Transfers an active call to another extension or number.
- CONFERENCE: Initiates a conference call.
- DROP: Disconnects the current call.
- Navigation Cluster (OK button and arrow keys): Used to navigate menus and select options on the display.
- Softkey Buttons: Three context-sensitive buttons located directly below the display. Their function changes based on the current phone activity.
- Dial Pad: Standard alphanumeric keypad for dialing numbers.
3.2 Basic Call Functions
- Making a Call:
- Pick up the handset, press the SPEAKER button, or press an available line appearance button.
- Dial the number using the dial pad.
- Press the CALL softkey (if available) or wait for the call to connect.
- Answering a Call:
- When the phone rings, pick up the handset, press the SPEAKER button, or press the flashing line appearance button.
- Ending a Call:
- Hang up the handset, press the SPEAKER button again, or press the DROP button.
- Placing a Call on Hold:
- During an active call, press the HOLD button. The line appearance LED will typically flash red.
- To retrieve the call, press the flashing line appearance button.
- Transferring a Call:
- During an active call, press the TRANSFER button. The current call is placed on hold.
- Dial the number of the party you wish to transfer the call to.
- Once the second party answers (or if you prefer a blind transfer), press the TRANSFER button again to complete the transfer.
- Initiating a Conference Call:
- During an active call, press the CONFERENCE button. The current call is placed on hold.
- Dial the number of the party you wish to add to the conference.
- Once the second party answers, press the CONFERENCE button again to join all parties.
3.3 Using Contacts and Call Log
- Contacts: Press the CONTACTS button to access your stored directory. Use the navigation cluster to scroll through entries and the OK button or a softkey to dial.
- Call Log: Press the CALL LOG button to view a list of your last 100 calls. Use the navigation cluster to scroll and select an entry to redial.
4. Maintenance
Proper care ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Avaya 1608-I IP Phone.
- Cleaning: Use a soft, slightly damp cloth to clean the phone's exterior. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the finish. Do not spray liquids directly onto the phone.
- Handling: Handle the phone and handset with care. Avoid dropping the device or exposing it to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight.
- Cable Management: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not under strain. Periodically check for any signs of wear or damage to the cords.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Avaya 1608-I IP Phone, try these basic troubleshooting steps.
- No Dial Tone/Cannot Make Calls:
- Check all cable connections, especially the Ethernet cable to the LAN port.
- Ensure the phone is receiving power (either via PoE or a local power adapter).
- Restart the phone by disconnecting and reconnecting its power source.
- Verify that your network connection is active.
- Display is Blank:
- Confirm the phone is powered on and connected correctly.
- Adjust the display contrast if available in the phone's menu (refer to your system administrator for specific settings).
- Poor Audio Quality:
- Adjust the volume using the VOLUME buttons.
- Check the handset or headset connection.
- Ensure there is no interference from other electronic devices.
- Buttons Not Responding:
- Restart the phone.
- Ensure the phone is not in a locked state (if such a feature is enabled by your administrator).
If these steps do not resolve the issue, please contact your system administrator or IT support for further assistance.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Display | White Backlit 3.5-inch Display, 3 Rows by 24 Characters |
| Line Appearances | Eight, with Dual LEDs (Red, Green) |
| Speakerphone | 2-Way, Message Waiting Speakerphone |
| Fixed Feature Keys | Conference, Transfer, Drop, Hold, Mute, Contacts, Call Log, Redial, Speaker, Headset |
| Softkey Buttons | Three |
| Ports | Dual 10/100 Ethernet Ports |
| Power | 802.3af Class 2 PoE Device; Supports Local Power Supply (Sold Separately) |
| Protocol Support | H.323 |
| Codec Support | G711, G726, G729A/B |
| Supported Languages | English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 9.84 x 7.87 x 2.76 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.98 pounds |
| Material | Plastic |
| Color | Black |
7. Compatibility
The Avaya 1608-I IP Phone is compatible with the following systems:
- Avaya Communication Manager 3.0 or higher
- Avaya IP Office 4.2(11) or higher
- Supports Local or Centralized Electrical Power
- HTTP File Server
8. Support
For further technical support, warranty information, or service inquiries, please refer to your Avaya product documentation or contact your authorized Avaya reseller or system administrator. You can also visit the official Avaya support website for additional resources.





