VTech Cordless Phone Problems

Cordless handsets replace wires with radio signals.

VTech is the manufacturer of a popular line of cordless phones. All cordless phones are subject to service quality issues similar to the reception problems associated with cell phones.

The Facts

Cordless phones differ from cell phones in that they are designed to be used in a single location, within range of a short-range radio transmitter that transmits a landline call to the handset. Cordless phones operate on one of three radio frequencies: 900 megahertz (MHz), 2.4 gigahertz (GHz, which is 1,000 megahertz), or 5.8 GHz; newer phones tend to operate on the higher frequencies.

Radio Interference

All radio devices are subject to interference issues with other signals operating on the same frequency. For example, a 2.4 GHz phone operates in the same frequency as an 802.11b or 802.11g home wireless network; network traffic may interfere with call quality, and vice versa. Both are subject to being overwhelmed by microwave oven radiation, which operates at the same frequency. Microwave ovens may leak radiation at a completely safe level for humans but which is powerful enough to overwhelm other radio signals. This is best solved with a cordless phone upgrade to the 5.8 GHz system, although changing the 2.4 GHz channel may improve call quality.

Battery Life

Cordless handsets use a rechargeable battery to power the phone when it is in use. Cordless stations are provided with VTech systems; they double as a handset stand and a charging station. Leave your VTech phone in the station when it is not in use to ensure it has a full charge. If the handset loses power too quickly despite a full charge, it is time to replace the battery; all rechargeable batteries have a limited number of recharge cycles (usually several hundred) before they are unable to hold a full charge.

VoIP Integration

If you are using an Internet call provider, such as Skype or magicJack, you may experience problems integrating this system with your VTech devices. If possible, test the system with a regular wire phone to ensure that the connection is working properly before it gets to the cordless phone setup; your problem may be occurring before it reaches the VTech base station, and your troubleshooting time should be spent working with your USB connection to the phone jack or with your software.

Call Quality

Many things can interfere with cordless phone call quality. Be sure to remain within range of the base station, and if possible, avoid having walls with water pipes or electrical wiring between yourself and the station. Install DSL line filters onto your phone jacks if you use a DSL high-speed Internet connection service. Try to test a phone jack with a wired phone to see if the problem continues without the cordless phone in use.

References

• VTech Product Support