Cordless telephones provide secure and reliable voice communication with the portability and versatility that you can’t get with a corded phone. With new improvements in technology, the sound and security of cordless telephones now rival those of corded phones.

There are many cordless telephone options available today with varying technology, styling and features. Determining the right phone for you depends on how you want to use it and the environment you live in. Criteria to consider include:

FREQUENCY
Cordless phones operate on various radio frequencies, which are set by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

The three most common frequencies today are 900MHz, 2.4GHz and 5.8GHz:

900 MHz Currently the most common frequency for cordless phones, 900MHz phones may offer a greater range than other frequencies. However, the 900MHz spectrum is cluttered and may result in interference with baby monitors and other 900MHz cordless phones. Radio scanners can also easily pick up this band.

2.4 GHz 2.4GHz phones offer better clarity and security than 900MHz, but may experience some interference with microwave ovens and wireless networking (wi-fi) products.

5.8 GHz The most advanced cordless phones available, 5.8GHz phones transmit on a new, open frequency and have the least chance for interference. They will not interfere with wireless networking (wi-fi) products.

Note: Many people equate a higher cordless phone frequency with a better range. However, range for a cordless phone is difficult to quantify because it ultimately depends on the environment in which the phone is being used and potential interference from other electronic devices.

ANALOG vs. DIGITAL
Cordless phones can operate with analog or digital technology.

Analog technology is common in cordless telephones, especially in inexpensive models. Analog signals tend to be more noisy or prone to interference with respect to sound quality. In addition, analog signals are easily picked up and interpreted by radio scanners.

Digital technology allows phone signals to sound clearer and also offers significantly increased security.

Digital Spread Spectrum (DSS or FHSS) technology enables voice data to “frequency hop,” or transmit in pieces over several frequencies between the receiver and the base, making it almost impossible to eavesdrop on cordless phone conversations.

KEY FEATURES TO CONSIDER
When purchasing your next cordless phone, look for the four most requested features built into cordless phones today.

Battery Life All cordless phone handsets have a rechargeable battery (i.e. nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium). Nickel-cadmium batteries are subject to a memory effect. Nickel-metal hydride and lithium batteries have no memory effect. Battery life depends on the type of battery and the transmitting power of the handset. Battery life usually ranges from 2-7 hours of continuous talking or 4-7 days on standby.

Cordless Phone Features Cordless phones have evolved extensively in both design and features. In response to consumer demand, many cordless telephones today are equipped with cell-phone like styling and features.

Basic Cordless Features Include: