1. Introduction
This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your VTech IS8151-5 Answering System. This system includes a base unit with a digital answering machine and five cordless handsets, expandable with additional IS8101 accessory handsets.
Key features of your VTech IS8151-5 system include:
- Super Long Range: Over 2000 feet for clear coverage, utilizing unique antenna design and noise-filtering technology.
- Connect to Cell: Pair up to two cell phones or one cell phone and one Bluetooth headset to make and receive cellular calls through your home phone system.
- Digital Answering Machine: Features 22 minutes of recording time, English/French voice prompts, LED counter, date/time stamp, and remote access.
- Smart Call Blocker: Automatically blocks robocalls on your landline and allows blacklisting up to 1,000 numbers with a single touch.
- Expandable System: Supports up to 12 handsets (using IS8101 accessory handsets, sold separately) with features like Push-to-Talk intercom, remote message access, and conferencing.
2. Package Contents
Ensure all items are present in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact VTech customer support.
- 1 x IS8151-5 Base Unit with Digital Answering Machine
- 5 x Cordless Handsets (IS8101)
- 5 x Handset Chargers
- 5 x Power Adapters for Handset Chargers
- 1 x Power Adapter for Base Unit
- 1 x Telephone Line Cord
- 5 x Ni-MH Rechargeable Battery Packs
- 1 x Wall Mount Bracket (optional)
- 1 x Quick Start Guide (not included in this manual)
Image: The VTech IS8151-5 Answering System, showing the main base unit with one handset docked, and four additional handsets each in their individual charging cradles. All units are black with silver and gold accents, featuring digital displays and keypads.
3. Setup Guide
Follow these steps to set up your VTech IS8151-5 Answering System.
3.1. Base Unit Connection
- Connect the Telephone Line Cord: Plug one end of the telephone line cord into the TEL LINE jack on the back of the base unit. Plug the other end into a telephone wall jack.
- Connect the Power Adapter: Plug the small end of the base unit's power adapter into the POWER jack on the back of the base unit. Plug the large end into a standard electrical outlet not controlled by a wall switch.
- Position the Base Unit: Place the base unit on a flat, stable surface, away from other electrical appliances or large metal objects that could interfere with the signal.
3.2. Handset Battery Installation and Charging
- Install Battery: Open the battery compartment cover on the back of each handset. Connect the battery pack connector securely into the jack inside the compartment. Place the battery pack with the label facing up. Close the battery compartment cover.
- Charge Handsets: Plug each handset charger's power adapter into a standard electrical outlet. Place each handset face forward into its respective charger. The CHARGE light on the handset will illuminate, indicating proper charging.
- Initial Charge: Allow each handset to charge for at least 16 hours before initial use to ensure optimal battery performance.
3.3. Handset Registration (if necessary)
Your handsets are typically pre-registered to the base unit. If a handset displays "To register HS" or "Put HS on base," you may need to manually register it:
- Place the unregistered handset on the base unit's charger.
- Press and hold the FIND HS button on the base unit for about 4 seconds until the IN USE light on the base unit turns on.
- The handset will display "Registering..." and then "Registered" once successful.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Basic Phone Functions
- Making a Call: Press HOME/FLASH or any dial pad key, then dial the phone number.
- Answering a Call: Press HOME/FLASH or SPEAKER when the phone rings.
- Ending a Call: Press OFF/CANCEL or place the handset back in its charger.
- Volume Adjustment: During a call, press VOL+ or VOL- on the side of the handset to adjust earpiece or speaker volume.
Image: A single VTech cordless handset, black with silver and gold accents, resting in its white charging cradle. The display shows "VTECH 888-595-9511 MUTE BLOCK" and the keypad is visible with large, clear buttons.
4.2. Digital Answering System
The answering system is integrated into the base unit and records messages when you are away or unable to answer calls.
- Turning On/Off: Press ANS ON/OFF on the base unit to activate or deactivate the answering system.
- Playing Messages: Press PLAY/STOP on the base unit to listen to new messages.
- Deleting Messages: During message playback, press DELETE on the base unit.
- Remote Access: You can access your answering machine remotely from any touch-tone phone by dialing your home number and entering your remote access code.
4.3. Connect to Cell Feature
This feature allows you to make and receive cellular calls using your VTech cordless handsets.
- Pairing a Cell Phone:
- On the base unit, press and hold CELL 1 or CELL 2 until the corresponding light flashes.
- Enable Bluetooth on your cell phone and search for devices. Select "VTech DECT" from the list.
- Confirm the pairing code on both devices if prompted.
- Making a Cell Call: Press CELL 1 or CELL 2 on a handset, then dial the number.
- Answering a Cell Call: When your cell phone rings through the system, press CELL 1 or CELL 2 on a handset.
4.4. Smart Call Blocker
The Smart Call Blocker helps filter unwanted calls, including robocalls and telemarketers.
- Blocking a Number: During a call, press CALL BLOCK on the handset or base unit. Follow the voice prompts to block the current number.
- Reviewing Blocked List: Access the Call Blocker menu through the handset or base unit settings to review and manage blocked numbers. The system can permanently blacklist up to 1,000 numbers.
4.5. Intercom and Conferencing
- Intercom: To call another handset, press INT on your handset, then dial the handset number (e.g., 1-5).
- 5-Way Conferencing: During an external call, you can add up to four other handsets to create a 5-way conference call. Refer to the detailed user guide for specific steps.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Cleaning Your Phone
Clean the phone system with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Do not use cleaning sprays or harsh chemicals, as they may damage the finish or electrical components.
5.2. Battery Care
- Use only the supplied Ni-MH rechargeable battery packs.
- If the handset will not be used for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent leakage.
- Dispose of used batteries according to local regulations. Do not dispose of batteries in a fire.
6. Troubleshooting
If you experience difficulty with your phone, please try the suggestions below. For more detailed troubleshooting, refer to the full user manual or VTech's online support.
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No dial tone. |
|
| Handset displays "Low Battery" or does not charge. |
|
| Cannot make or receive calls. |
|
| Poor audio quality or static. |
|
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | VTech |
| Model Numbers | IS8151-5 (Base Unit), IS8101 (Accessory Handset) |
| Colour | Black |
| Telephone Type | Cordless |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Answering System Type | Digital |
| Answering System Capacity | 22 minutes |
| Compatible Devices | Mobile devices (via Bluetooth), additional handsets |
| Conference Call Capability | 5-way |
| Multiline Operation | Multi-Line Operation |
| Caller Identification | Yes |
| Expandability | Up to 12 handsets (using IS8101 accessory handsets) |
| Range | Over 2000 feet (with unique antenna design) |
8. Warranty and Support
VTech products are designed to provide years of reliable service. For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official VTech website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
For technical support, product registration, or to purchase accessories, please visit the VTech support website or contact their customer service line. Contact information can typically be found on the VTech website or in the quick start guide.
