Someone in the market for a cordless phone system today might have a bit of research to do. There are many different frequencies and choices available and it's important to understand the technology prior to making an investment. Consulting the websites of the most popular brand name phones (e.g., Panasonic, VTech, AT&T, RCA or Uniden) and reading consumer reviews, either online or via consumer report magazines, are two strong starting points. There is a wide range of associated prices, as well, so a selection may be based, for instance, on whether the phone system will be used in the home, in a home business or in a small business environment.
One of the major considerations when using cordless phone systems, particularly in small business, is the amount of possible interference between the base and the various handsets. Cordless phones in the 900 MHz range, for example, are best relegated to home use. 2.4 GHz cordless phones, operating at the same frequency as Wi-Fi networks, may be subject to a great deal of interference. For this reason, in 2003, the FCC allocated the 5.8GHz frequency for cordless phone use. Phones operating at 5.8GHz will generally have a higher price tag but, in exchange, offer greater call clarity with no loss in range – a real consideration when operating a professional home or small business.
There are many 5.8 ghz cordless phone systems to choose from, some featuring 1 or 2 line capacity. However, as today's technology evolves and user needs expand, a 5.8 GHz 4 line cordless phone system may be desirable. Such a system will easily allow a small business to offer the functionality and efficiency that once involved a significant investment in both equipment and installation.
The Panasonic KX-TG4500B is a prime entry at this level. Currently available online, for example, through sites such as Amazon.com for a price tag of under $400, this 4 line 5.8 ghz cordless phone system is a small business workhorse. Offering a built-in digital answering system capable of holding 100 minutes of recordings, call transfer, call waiting, caller ID and other popular features, the Panasonic KX-TG4500B is a great investment for any enterprise that can foresee the need to expand up to the available 8 handsets.
It is possible to acquire the Panasonic KX-TGA450B handsets and other accessories new, used and also refurbished (through a variety of companies such as Barcley Telecom, for one). One of the popular accessories for the Panasonic KX-TG4500B system is a headset. Being able to work hands-free in a busy small business is certainly a boost to efficiency and productivity. The Panasonic KX-TCA92 Comfort Fit Hands-Free Headset gets good consumer review marks for its noise-canceling microphone which sits close to the mouth and provides great clarity. This headset is very lightweight and comfortable to wear and it folds for storage. It can also be used on either the left or right ear, depending on user preference. The unit features a volume control and calls can be muted with push and hold button. Additionally, the headset will work with other phones in this range, such as those marketed by Uniden, and also cellular phones.
A 5.8 Ghz 4 line cordless phone system can clearly offer a solid return on investment for today's small business. With the system being expandable, having 4 lines and multiple handsets or headsets will ensure that all customers are answered promptly and professionally, with excellent sound quality and far less opportunity for missed calls and busy signals.