VTech CS 5249 Series Cordless Phone User Manual
Congratulations
Congratulations on your purchase of a new VTech product. This manual provides instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting for your VTech telephone. For support and more information, visit www.vtechphones.com or phones.vtechcanada.com.
This product is compatible with Hearing Aid T-Coil (TIA-1083 Compliant) and meets ENERGY STAR® guidelines for energy efficiency.
Important Safety Instructions
Basic safety precautions must be followed when using your telephone equipment to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury. Always:
- Read and understand all instructions.
- Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product.
- Unplug the product before cleaning; use a damp cloth, not liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Do not install the telephone base higher than 2 meters (approx. 6.5 feet).
- Avoid using the product near water (e.g., bathtub, sink, pool) or in wet areas.
- Do not place on unstable surfaces.
- Avoid extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or other electrical devices. Protect from moisture, dust, corrosive liquids, and fumes.
- Ensure ventilation openings are not blocked. Do not place near radiators or heat registers.
- Operate only from the indicated power source.
- Do not allow anything to rest on the power cord; do not install where cords can be walked on.
- Never insert objects into slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or cause short circuits. Never spill liquid on the product.
- Do not disassemble; take to an authorized service facility for repairs to avoid dangerous voltages or other risks.
- Do not overload wall outlets or extension cords.
- Unplug and refer servicing to an authorized facility if the power cord/plug is damaged, liquid has spilled, the product was exposed to rain/water, it doesn't operate normally, it has been dropped, or it exhibits a distinct change in performance.
- Avoid using cordless phones during electrical storms.
- Do not use the phone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak due to potential spark hazards. Ensure adequate ventilation in environments with flammable gases.
- Only place the handset next to your ear when in normal talk mode.
- Power adapters are designed for vertical or floor mount positions; prongs are not designed to hold the plug in place if plugged into ceiling or under-table outlets.
- For pluggable equipment, the socket outlet must be installed near the equipment and easily accessible.
- Use only the specified batteries (e.g., BT162342/BT262342) for the handset. Do not dispose of batteries in fire; they may explode.
- Use only the included adapter; incorrect polarity or voltage can damage the product.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
Battery
Use only the supplied battery. To order replacements, visit www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511. In Canada, visit phones.vtechcanada.com or call 1 (800) 267-7377.
- Do not dispose of batteries in fire. Check local waste management codes.
- Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause burns or injury. Electrolyte may be toxic if swallowed.
- Handle batteries carefully to avoid short circuits with conductive materials.
- Charge the provided battery only as specified in this manual.
Precautions for Users of Implanted Cardiac Pacemakers
Wireless Technology Research, LLC (WTR) recommends that pacemaker patients:
- Keep wireless telephones at least six inches (15 cm) from the pacemaker.
- Do NOT place wireless telephones directly over the pacemaker (e.g., in a breast pocket) when turned ON.
- Use the wireless telephone at the ear opposite the pacemaker.
WTR's evaluation did not identify any risk to bystanders with pacemakers from other persons using wireless telephones.
About Cordless Telephones
- Privacy: Conversations are transmitted by radio waves and can be intercepted. Do not consider cordless telephone conversations as private as corded telephones.
- Electrical Power: The telephone base must be connected to a working electrical outlet not controlled by a wall switch. Calls cannot be made if the base is unplugged, switched off, or if power is interrupted.
- Potential TV Interference: Some cordless phones operate at frequencies that may interfere with televisions and VCRs. To minimize interference, do not place the telephone base near or on top of a TV or VCR. Moving the base away from the TV/VCR may resolve interference.
- Rechargeable Batteries: Handle batteries with care to avoid short circuits with conductive materials (rings, bracelets, keys). Battery or conductor may overheat and cause harm. Observe proper polarity.
- Nickel-metal hydride rechargeable batteries: Dispose of these batteries safely. Do not burn or puncture them, as they could release caustic material.
ECO mode
This power-conserving technology reduces power consumption for optimal battery performance. ECO mode activities automatically whenever the handset is synchronized with the telephone base.
FCC, ACTA and IC Regulations
FCC Part 15
This equipment complies with Class B digital device requirements under Part 15 of the FCC rules, intended to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. If interference occurs, try reorienting the receiving antenna, increasing separation between equipment and receiver, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a dealer/technician. Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no harmful interference, and (2) acceptance of any received interference. Privacy of communications may not be ensured. The handset may be safely held against the user's ear. The telephone base should be installed and used with parts of the user's body other than hands maintained at least 20 cm (8 inches) away.
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian requirement: CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B).
FCC Part 68 and ACTA
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules and ACTA technical requirements. The product identifier (US:AAAEQ##TXXXX) must be provided to the telephone service provider. Connect to compatible modular jacks using the provided compliant telephone cord and modular plug. The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) determines the number of devices allowed on a telephone line; the sum of RENs should generally be five or less. This equipment may not be used with Party Lines. Ensure connection does not disable alarm equipment. Malfunctioning equipment must be unplugged until corrected. Replacement can only be made by the manufacturer or authorized agents. If this equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the service provider may temporarily discontinue service after notification. Changes by the service provider may affect product functioning; notification will be given. If equipped with a corded or cordless handset, it is hearing aid compatible. If storing emergency numbers, remain on the line and explain the reason for the call before hanging up, and perform such activities during off-peak hours.
Industry Canada
This device complies with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) no interference, and (2) acceptance of any interference. Privacy of communications may not be ensured. The term 'IC:' signifies compliance with Industry Canada technical specifications. The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is 1.0. The sum of RENs on an interface should not exceed five. This product meets applicable Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada technical specifications.
California Energy Commission Battery Charging Testing Instructions
Instructions for CEC compliance testing only. To activate CEC battery charging testing mode:
- Unplug the telephone base power adapter. Ensure all handsets have charged batteries.
- Press and hold the [FIND HANDSET] button, then plug the telephone base power adapter back in.
- After about 10 seconds, when the IN USE light flashes and the base shows "Registering..." then "De-register?", release and immediately press [FIND HANDSET] again within two seconds.
If successful, handsets display "To register HS..." and "...see manual" alternately. If it fails, repeat steps 1-3.
To deactivate CEC battery charging testing mode:
- Unplug and then plug back in the telephone base power adapter.
- Press and hold [FIND HANDSET] on the telephone base for about four seconds until the IN USE light turns on and the handset shows "Registering...".
- Press [QUIET #] on the handset. The handset shows "Registered" and a beep is heard upon completion (approx. 60 seconds).
Install | Set up
What's in the box
Your telephone package contains the following items. Save your sales receipt and original packaging for warranty service. Additional handsets (CS5209) can be purchased separately. The telephone base supports a maximum of five devices.
Models supported:
- CS5249: 1 set
- CS5249-2: 2 sets
- CS5249-3: 3 sets
- CS5249-4: 4 sets
- CS5249-5: 5 sets
Battery Pack: BT162342/BT262342 (2.4V 300mAh Ni-MH)
WARNING: DO NOT BURN OR PUNCTURE BATTERIES.
Note: To purchase replacement batteries or power adapters, visit www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511. In Canada, go to phones.vtechcanada.com or call 1 (800) 267-7377.
Connect the telephone base
Diagram shows releasing and flipping a wall-mount bracket, passing cords through it, and plugging them into sockets.
- Press to release the wall-mount bracket from the back of the telephone base.
- Flip the wall-mount bracket down.
- Pass the power cord, telephone line cord, and coiled handset cord through the wall-mount bracket.
- Plug them into the respective sockets.
- Flip the wall-mount bracket up and restore it to its original position. A "click" sound indicates it is locked.
- The power cord, telephone line cord, and coiled handset cord should be placed in the slots.
Tips:
- If mounting the base, ensure the telephone line passes through the mounting bracket before connecting to the DSL filter.
- If you subscribe to DSL Internet service, connect a DSL filter (not included) to the telephone wall jack.
Connect the charger
Diagram shows plugging the charger into a wall outlet and the base unit.
Plug the charger into a power outlet.
Install the battery
Diagram shows connecting the battery connector to the socket inside the handset battery compartment, ensuring the "THIS SIDE UP" label faces up, and sliding the cover into place until it clicks.
- Plug the battery connector securely into the socket inside the handset battery compartment. Ensure the battery label "THIS SIDE UP" faces up.
- Align the cover flat against the battery compartment, then slide it upwards until it clicks into place.
Charge the battery
Diagram shows placing the handset on the charger base. A full charge takes approximately 12 hours.
Battery Indicators:
- Screen blank or flashing: Battery has no or very little charge. Put in charger and charge without interruption (at least 30 minutes).
- Screen shows "Low battery" and flashes: Battery has enough charge for short use. Charge without interruption (at least 30 minutes).
- Screen shows "HANDSET X": Battery is charged. To keep it charged, place it in the charger when not in use.
After full charge, expect approximately 7 hours talk time and 5 days standby time. Operating times vary with use and battery age.
Check for dial tone
Lift the corded handset or press [TALK] on the cordless handset. If a dial tone is heard, installation is successful. If not, ensure procedures are correct, wait a moment, or check the telephone line cord and wall jack.
Before use
Set date and time (before use)
After installation or power restoration, the handset prompts to set the date and time. Correct date and time are essential for the answering system's message timestamp.
- Use dialing keys (0-9) to enter month (MM), date (DD), and year (YY). Press [SELECT].
- Enter hour (HH) and minute (MM). Press [AM/PM] to choose AM or PM.
- Press [SELECT] to save.
Note: Press [CANCEL] to skip setting the date and time.
Set up through voice guide - Answering system (before use)
After setting the date and time, the handset prompts to set up the answering system via voice guide. Follow voice prompts to record an announcement, set the number of rings, and message alert tone.
- Press [SELECT] to start answering system setup via voice guide.
- Follow voice prompts to configure the system.
Note: Press [CANCEL] to skip setup.
Alternate way to set up:
- Press [MENU] in idle mode.
- Scroll to "Answering sys" and press [SELECT].
- Scroll to "Voice guide" and press [SELECT].
- Follow voice prompts to set up the answering system.
Note: Press [CANCEL] to quit the voice guide at any time.
Install
Mount the telephone base
The telephone base can be used for tabletop or wall mounting. For wall mounting, use the provided wall-mount bracket and a standard dual-stud telephone wall-mounting plate. Professional installation of the wall-mounting plate may be required.
Diagrams illustrate releasing the bracket, passing cords, plugging them in, and securing the bracket.
Overview
Telephone base
Key components and their functions:
- [1] Handset earpiece
- [2] Switch hook
- [3] Microphone
- [4] Coiled handset cord
- [5] LCD display
- [6] Antenna
- [7] FLASH: Answer incoming call during call waiting.
- [8] X/DELETE: Delete current message/announcement, delete all reviewed messages (press twice), delete individual entries, delete characters.
- [9] /REPEAT: Repeat message or play previous message.
- [10] /SKIP: Skip to the next message.
- [11] /PLAY/STOP: Play messages, stop message playback. Flashes when new messages or memos are present.
- [12] /FIND HANDSET: Page all handsets when the phone is not in use.
- [13] ANS ON/OFF: Turn the answering system on or off. Light is on when the system is on.
- [14] /SPEAKER: Make or answer calls using the speakerphone. Mute the microphone during a call.
- [15] MUTE: Mute the microphone during a call. Temporarily silence the ringer.
- [16] INT: Start an intercom conversation or transfer a call (multi-handset models).
- [17] p VOL q: Adjust listening volume during a call. Adjust telephone base ringer volume when the phone is not in use.
- [18] REDIAL/PAUSE: View last 10 numbers dialed. Insert a dialing pause.
- [19] QUIET # OPER 0: Add or remove '1' before a number for dialing/saving. Set/dial voicemail number. Set/turn off QUIET mode. View dialing options. Enter space. Switch to tone dialing temporarily.
Telephone base lights:
- IN USE light: On when the phone line is in use, answering system is answering, or a handset is being registered. Flashes for incoming calls, when handsets are being deregistered, or when another phone on the line is in use.
- ANS ON/OFF light: On when the answering system is turned on.
Handset
Key components and their functions:
- [1] LCD display: Shows information, menus, and caller ID.
- [2] MENU/SELECT: Display menu, select an item, save an entry or setting.
- [3] p VOLUME / [4] VOLUMEq/CID: Adjust listening volume, scroll through menus, move cursor. [4] also reviews caller ID log and decreases listening volume.
- [5] OFF/CANCEL: Hang up, cancel operation, back up to previous menu, exit menu, mute ringer temporarily, erase missed call indicator, set/turn off QUIET mode.
- [6] QUIET #: View dialing options.
- [7] INT: Start intercom conversation or transfer a call.
- [8] MUTE/DELETE: Mute microphone, delete digits/characters, silence ringer temporarily.
- [9] CHARGE light: On when handset is charging.
- [10] REDIAL/PAUSE: View last 10 numbers dialed, insert dialing pause.
- [11] TALK/FLASH: Make or answer a call. Answer incoming call during call waiting. Add/remove '1' before a number. Set/dial voicemail number.
- [12] ECO: Switches to tone dialing temporarily.
- [13] 0: Make or answer a call using the speakerphone. Turn on handset speakerphone.
Handset lights:
- CHARGE: On when handset is charging.
- [SPEAKER icon]: On when speakerphone is in use.
Display Icons:
- [Battery icon]: Shows battery level (low, charging, fully charged).
- [Ringer icon]: Ringer is off.
- NEW VOICEMAIL: New voicemail received from service provider.
- NEW MSG#: Number of new/old messages recorded.
- ECO: ECO mode is active.
Operate
Make, answer or end a call
- Make a call: Using cordless handset: Press [TALK] or dial number, then press [TALK]. Using telephone base: Lift corded handset or press [SPEAKER], then dial number.
- Predial a call: Enter number, then press [TALK] or [SPEAKER].
- Answer a call: Using cordless handset: Press [TALK] or any dialing key. Using telephone base: Lift corded handset or press [SPEAKER].
- End a call: Using cordless handset: Press [TALK] or place handset in charger. Using telephone base: Place corded handset back on base or press [SPEAKER].
Notes: Screen displays "Unable to call" if line is in use. Elapsed time is shown during calls.
View dialing options
Caller ID log entries may require dialing 7 digits, 1+7 digits, or 1+area code+7 digits. While reviewing the caller ID log, press [#] repeatedly to show different dialing options. Press [1] repeatedly to add or remove '1' before the number.
Sound
- Use speakerphone: During a call, press [SPEAKER] on handset or base to switch between speakerphone and handset.
- Volume control: During a call, press [VOL p] or [VOL q] on handset or base to adjust listening volume. Volume settings are independent.
- Mute the microphone: During a call, press [MUTE] on handset or base. Press again to resume. Mute is automatically cancelled when the call ends.
- Temporary ringer silencing: When the phone rings, press [MUTE] on handset or [MUTE/CANCEL] on base to silence the ringer temporarily. The next call rings normally.
Join a call
You can have up to three devices on an outside call (base + 2 handsets, or 3 handsets). To join a call in progress, press [TALK] or [INT] on another handset, or lift the corded handset/press [SPEAKER] on the base.
Call waiting
If subscribed to call waiting service, hear an alert tone for an incoming call. Press [FLASH] on handset or base to put the current call on hold and take the new call. Press [FLASH] again to switch between calls. Caller ID service may show the name and number of the caller during call waiting.
Intercom
Use the intercom feature for conversations between the telephone base and handsets, or between two handsets. The base supports up to five handsets. Additional expansion handsets (CS5209) can be purchased.
- Initiate an intercom call: Press [INT] on handset or base. Select destination handset/base. The destination rings. Press [TALK], [INT], or any dialing key to answer.
- Answer an incoming call during an intercom call: Press [TALK] or [SPEAKER] (on base) to end the intercom call and answer the outside call.
- Transfer a call via intercom: During an outside call, press [INT]. Select destination handset/base. The outside call is put on hold. Answer the intercom call on the destination device. You can then join the outside call (three-way conversation) by pressing and holding [INT] on the originating handset, or transfer the call by pressing [CANCEL] or placing the handset in the charger.
Notes: If a handset is in use, out of range, or does not answer, the originating device displays "Unable to call".
Find handset
Press [/FIND HANDSET] on the telephone base to page all idle handsets. They will ring and display "Paging". To end paging, press [/FIND HANDSET] again, or press [TALK], [INT], or any dialing key on a handset, or place the handset in the charger.
Cautions: Do not press and hold [/FIND HS] for more than four seconds to avoid handset deregistration. Do not use the feature while the base is playing messages or the answering system is accessed remotely.
Use phone menu
Press [MENU] in idle mode to enter the main menu. Scroll through menu items using [VOL p] or [VOL q] and press [SELECT] to choose or save.
Phonebook
The phonebook can store up to 50 entries, shared by all handsets. Each entry can have a number up to 30 digits and a name up to 15 characters. Changes on one handset reflect on others.
Add a phonebook entry
Enter the number (up to 30 digits) and name (up to 15 characters). Use dialing keys, [VOL p]/[VOL q] for cursor movement, and [X/DELETE] or [MUTE/DELETE] to edit.
Review the phonebook entries
Press [VOL p] in idle mode to display the first entry. Scroll using [VOL p]/[VOL q] or use dialing keys for name search.
Dial a phonebook entry
Search for the entry, then press [TALK] or [SPEAKER] to dial.
Delete a phonebook entry
While reviewing an entry, press [X/DELETE] or [MUTE/DELETE] to delete.
Edit a phonebook entry
While reviewing an entry, press [SELECT] to edit the number and name.
Alphabetical search
Press [VOL p] in idle mode, then use dialing keys (0-9) to start a name search. Press keys repeatedly to cycle through letters associated with that key.
Redial list
Each handset stores the last 10 dialed numbers. Entries are in reverse chronological order.
Review a redial list entry
Press [REDIAL/PAUSE] in idle mode. Scroll using [VOL p]/[VOL q] or [CID] to browse.
Dial a redial list entry
Access the redial list, browse to the desired entry, then press [TALK] or [SPEAKER] to dial.
Delete a redial list entry
Access the redial list, browse to the desired entry, then press [X/DELETE] or [MUTE/DELETE] to delete.
Chain dialing
Access numbers from the phonebook, caller ID log, or redial list while on a call. Press [MENU], select the desired list, find the entry, and press [SELECT] to dial.
Caller ID
If subscribed to Caller ID service, caller information appears after the first or second ring. The log stores up to 30 entries. Entries appear in reverse chronological order.
Review the caller ID log
Press [CID] in idle mode, or press [MENU], scroll to "Caller ID log", and press [SELECT]. Scroll through entries using [VOL p]/[VOL q].
Save a caller ID log entry to the phonebook
While reviewing an entry, press [SELECT], then choose "To Phonebook". Edit the number and name if necessary, then press [SELECT] to save.
Save a caller ID log entry to call block list
While reviewing an entry, press [SELECT], then choose "To Call block". Edit the number and name if necessary, then press [SELECT] to save.
Dial a caller ID log entry
Search for the entry, then press [TALK] or [SPEAKER] to dial.
Caller ID memory match
If the last 7 digits of an incoming number match a phonebook entry, the name from the phonebook is displayed.
Missed call indicator
The screen shows "XX Missed calls" for new or missed calls. The count decreases as entries are reviewed. You can erase the missed calls indicator by pressing and holding [OFF/CANCEL] for four seconds when the handset is idle.
Call block
If subscribed to Caller ID service, you can block unknown calls and specific undesired numbers. The call block list stores up to 20 entries. Blocked calls hear a simulated busy tone for one ring.
Block unknown calls
Press [MENU], select "Call block", then "Calls w/o num". Choose "Block" or "Unblock".
Add a call block list entry
Press [MENU], select "Call block", then "Add new entry". Enter the number and name, then press [SELECT] to save.
Review call block list
Press [MENU], select "Call block", then "Block list", then "Review". Scroll through entries.
Edit a call block list entry
Search for the entry, press [SELECT] to edit the number and name, then press [SELECT] to save.
Unblock a telephone number
Review the call block list, select the entry, press [X/DELETE] or [MUTE/DELETE] to unblock.
Mute first ring
Option to mute the first ring for all incoming calls. By default, it is On. To change, press [7464#] and select "First ring:Off".
Answering system
Difference between the built-in answering system and voicemail service
The telephone has separate indicators for its built-in answering system and voicemail from your service provider. Messages are stored differently, and deletion policies vary.
Use your built-in answering system
The system can record up to 99 messages, each up to 3 minutes long, with a total capacity of approximately 22 minutes for announcements, messages, and memos. Messages are retained until deleted.
New message indication: "XX new messages" displays on handsets.
Message window display: Shows message count (0, 1-99, or flashing for new messages). "--" indicates system is busy. "F" indicates memory is full.
Turn on or off the answering system
Use the [ANS ON/OFF] button on the base or navigate through the handset menu.
Playback messages
Listen to messages at the base or handset. The system announces the number of messages, day, and time of recording. Options during playback include adjusting volume, skipping messages, repeating messages, deleting messages, and stopping playback.
Delete all messages
From the base: Press [MENU], then [X/DELETE] twice. From handset: Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", then "Delete all old".
Answering system remote access
Dial your home telephone number from any touch-tone phone. Enter the two-digit remote access code (default is 19). Commands are available for playing messages, deleting messages, recording announcements, etc. Press [*5] for a list of commands.
Recording memo
Record your own messages (memos) for reminders. Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", choose "Record memo", speak after the tone, and press [5] when done.
Turn on or off the call screening
Call screening allows you to hear incoming messages being recorded over the telephone base. Access via [MENU] > "Answering sys" > "Ans sys setup" > "Call screening".
Screen a call with answering system
If call screening is on, announcements and incoming messages broadcast at the telephone base. Options include adjusting volume and temporarily silencing screening.
Announcement
The telephone has a default announcement or you can record your own (up to 90 seconds).
Record a new outgoing announcement
Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", then "Announcement", then "Rec [7]". Speak after the tone, and press [5] when done.
Play your announcement
Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", then "Announcement", then "Play [2]".
Delete your announcement
Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", then "Announcement", then "Del [3]".
Voicemail (via Telephone service provider)
When voicemail is received, the handset and base display "New voicemail". Retrieve by dialing your service provider's access number and PIN. Contact your provider for service details.
Turn off the new voicemail indicators
If indicators remain after checking voicemail, press [MENU], select "Settings", then "Clr voicemail" to turn off the display.
Configure | Settings
Answering system settings
The answering system can record up to 99 messages, each up to 3 minutes. Total capacity is approx. 22 minutes. Messages are retained until deleted. If recording time is low, "Less than 3 minutes to record" is announced. If memory is full, "Memory is full" is announced.
Set answering system through voice guide
Alternative method for basic setup: record announcement, set rings, message alert tone. Press [MENU], select "Answering sys", then "Voice guide", and follow prompts.
Set remote access code
Change the two-digit remote access code (default 19) via [MENU] > "Answering sys" > "Ans sys setup" > "Remote code".
Turn on or off the message alert tone
When On, the base beeps every 10 seconds if there are new messages. Tone stops when messages are reviewed. Set via [MENU] > "Answering sys" > "Ans sys setup" > "Msg alert tone".
Area code settings
Set home area code
Enter your home area code if you dial 7 digits for local calls. This ensures correct display of numbers in the caller ID log. Set via [MENU] > "Settings" > "Home area code".
Dial modes
Temporary tone dialing
If you have pulse (rotary) service, switch to tone dialing temporarily during a call by pressing [OPER] or [0] on the handset.
Set dial mode
Preset to tone dialing. If you have pulse service, change to "Pulse" via [MENU] > "Settings" > "Dial mode".
Ringer
Set ringer tone
Choose from different ringer tones for handset and base. Set via [MENU] > "Ringers" > "Ringer tone". Sample tones by pressing [VOL p]/[VOL q].
Set ringer volume
Adjust handset ringer volume or turn it off. Set via [MENU] > "Ringers" > "Ringer volume". Base ringer volume can be adjusted by pressing [VOL q]/[VOL p] on the base.
Set date and time
Answering system announces message date/time. Set manually or automatically via Caller ID service. After installation or power failure, handset prompts for date/time setting.
To set manually: Press [MENU] > "Set date/time". Enter MM/DD/YY, then HH:MM AM/PM. Press [SELECT] to save.
Set languages
Set LCD language
Select English, French, or Spanish for screen displays. Set via [MENU] > "Settings" > "LCD language".
Note: To reset to English from French/Spanish, press [MENU] then enter [*364#].
Set voice language
Select English or French for voice prompts (Canada version only). Set via [MENU] > "Answering sys" > "Ans sys setup" > "Voice language".
Sound settings
Set number of rings
Set answering system to answer after 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 rings, or "Toll saver" (2 rings if new messages, 4 if no new messages). Set via [MENU] > "Answering sys" > "Ans sys setup" > "# of rings".
Set QUIET mode
Silences all sounds for a set period (1-12 hours). Handset locator paging and sound-generating operations are normal. Answering system turns on automatically and screens calls. To turn on: Press and hold [QUIET #]. Enter duration (1-12 hours). Press [SELECT]. To turn off: Press and hold [QUIET #] when phone is not in use.
Set listening volume
Adjust handset or base listening volume during calls or message playback using [VOL p]/[VOL q] buttons.
Set key tone
Adjust key tone volume or turn it off. Set via [MENU] > "Settings" > "Key tone".
Voicemail settings
Set speed dial voicemail number
Save your voicemail number for quick access by pressing and holding [1]. Set via [MENU] > "Settings" > "Voicemail #" and enter the number.
Add and register handset
Add new CS5209 handsets (sold separately) to your system (max 5 total devices). Each handset must be registered. When first purchased, handsets display "To register HS..." and "...see manual".
To register:
- Press and hold [FIND HANDSET] on the base for ~4 seconds until IN USE light is on and "Registering..." appears.
- Press [QUIET #] on the handset. "Registering..." appears on handset.
Registration completes in ~60 seconds, showing "Registered" and a beep. If registration fails, repeat steps.
Notes: Charge new handset for at least 30 minutes before registering. Cannot register if another handset is in use.
General product care
Treat electronic parts with care. Avoid rough treatment, water, and electrical storms. Clean only with a dry, non-abrasive cloth.
Technical specifications
- Frequency control: Crystal controlled PLL synthesizer
- Transmit frequency: Handset/Base: 1921.536-1928.448 MHz
- Channels: 5
- Nominal effective range: Maximum power allowed by FCC and IC; actual range varies by environment.
- Power requirement: Handset: 2.4V Ni-MH battery; Base: 6V DC @ 400mA; Charger: 6V DC @ 400mA
- Memory: Phonebook: 50 entries (30 digits, 15 chars); Caller ID log: 30 entries (24 digits, 15 chars); Call block: 150 entries.
- Operating time: Talk time: ~7 hours; Standby: ~5 days.
DECT 6.0 digital technology
VTech DECT 6.0 products offer superior range performance and sound clarity due to advanced antenna design and noise-filtering technology. Performance is up to 45% better than leading competitors in range tests.
Redefining long range coverage and clarity
The telephone base antenna provides improved clarity and longer range.
Simulated full-duplex handset and base speakerphones
Allow both ends of a call to speak and be heard simultaneously.
Frequently asked questions
Q: My telephone does not work at all. The display shows "No line." I cannot hear the dial tone.
A: Ensure the base is installed properly and the battery is charged. Check the telephone line cord and wall jack. Contact your service provider if the issue persists or if you use VoIP service.
Q: I cannot dial out.
A: Ensure there is a dial tone. Wait a moment for synchronization. Eliminate background noise or dial from a quieter location.
Q: The display shows "To register HS..." and "...see manual" alternately. The handset does not work at all.
A: The handset is deregistered. Place it in the telephone base to register. Registration takes about 60 seconds.
Q: The display shows "Low battery."
A: Place the handset in the charger. If the battery is completely depleted, charge for at least 30 minutes before use. A new battery may be needed.
Q: The telephone does not ring when there is an incoming call.
A: Ensure the ringer volume is not off. Move the handset closer to the telephone base if it is out of range.
Q: My handset beeps and is not performing normally.
A: Move the handset closer to the telephone base; it may be out of range.
Q: I hear noise on the cordless handset and the keys do not work.
A: Ensure the telephone line cord is plugged in securely. Disconnect the base from the wall jack and plug in a different telephone. If the problem persists, contact your service provider.
Q: I hear other calls when using the telephone.
A: Move the handset closer to the telephone base. If you have DSL service, install a DSL filter. Appliances or other cordless phones on the same circuit can cause interference; try a different outlet. For better reception, place the base centrally, away from obstructions.
Q: Caller ID is not received or not shown during call waiting.
A: Caller ID is a subscription service. Both your and the caller's service providers must use compatible equipment. The caller may not be calling from an area that supports Caller ID.
Q: The display shows "Out of range or no pwr at base."
A: Move the handset closer to the telephone base. Ensure the power cord is securely plugged into the base and a working outlet.
Q: I cannot hear any instruction from the handset when I try to record, play or delete my own announcement.
A: Instructions are announced through the handset receiver, not the speakerphone. Place the receiver close to your ear.
Q: The outgoing announcement is not clear.
A: Speak in a normal tone towards the microphone and avoid background noise when recording.
Q: The answering system does not record messages.
A: Ensure the answering system is on. Delete old messages if memory is full. If you subscribe to voicemail, adjust the number of rings so your answering system answers before voicemail.
Q: The messages on the answering system are very difficult to hear.
A: Press [VOL p]/[VOL +] to increase listening volume.
Q: The answering system does not announce the correct day of the week for recorded messages time stamp.
A: Ensure the date and time are set correctly.
Q: The messages on the answering system are incomplete.
A: Maximum message length is four minutes. Long messages or full memory may cause disconnection. Caller's voice may be too soft.
Q: The answering system does not respond to remote commands.
A: Ensure you are calling from a touch-tone phone. Wait until the announcement is over before entering the remote access code. Ensure your computer is powered on and internet is working if using a non-traditional telephone service.
Q: I accidentally set my LCD language to Spanish or French, and I don't know how to change it back to English.
A: While the handset is not in use, press [MENU] and enter [*364#] to change the LCD language back to English.
Limited Warranty
VTech warrants the Product and accessories to be free from defects in material and workmanship for ONE (1) YEAR from the date of purchase, when installed and used normally. This warranty extends to the Consumer for Products purchased and used in the USA and Canada.
VTech will, at its option, replace a Materially Defective Product with new or refurbished parts or products. Replacement typically takes approximately 30 days. This is your exclusive remedy.
What is not covered: Misuse, accident, physical damage, improper installation, abnormal operation, neglect, fire, water, liquid intrusion, unauthorized repair/alteration, signal conditions, non-VTech accessories, removal/alteration of serial numbers, commercial/institutional use, products returned without valid proof of purchase, or charges for installation/setup.
To get warranty service: Visit www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511 (US) or phones.vtechcanada.com or call 1 (800) 267-7377 (Canada). Review the user's manual before calling for service.
What to return: Original package and contents, description of malfunction, valid proof of purchase (sales receipt), your name, address, and telephone number.
Other limitations: This warranty is the complete agreement and supersedes all other communications. VTech provides no other warranties. Implied warranties are limited to one year. VTech is not liable for indirect, special, incidental, or consequential damages.
Disclaimer and Limitation of Liability: VTech assumes no responsibility for damage or loss resulting from the use of this manual or claims by third parties.
Company: VTech Communications, Inc. Address: 9020 SW Washington Square Road - Ste 555 Tigard, OR 97223, United States. Phone: 1 (800) 595-9511 (US) or 1 (800) 267-7377 (Canada).
Register your product at www.vtechphones.com (US) or phones.vtechcanada.com (Canada) for enhanced warranty support and product news.