DECT 6.0 - CORDLESS PHONE TECHNOLOGY
and the VTECH DS6222-5 Cordless Phone
© 2009 BOB SKIDMORE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
BOB SKIDMORE
CORRESPONDENT
DECT, Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications, 6.0 is a new protocol and frequency standard used for cordless phone transmissions. The 6.0 version is designed for use in the USA, while other versions do exist for other countries and other purposes. The 6.0 version is the next generation step up from the 2.4 and 5.8 GHz systems and is 1.9 GHz. Unlike those systems DECT. 6.0 phones are virtually immune to most local interference including disruption of wireless internet, wi-fi, use. An extra layer of encryption that previous technology did not offer, keeps your personal communications safe and enhances security. The noticeable result is clearer calls without crosstalk interference. The addition of extra handsets is made easier and battery life may be extended as much as 30%.
One manufacturer that offers DECT 6.0 technology is VTECH. I recently tested their newest model, the DS6222-5, a five-handset system that includes a digital answering system. (The last digit indicates the number of handsets in the system) I found the sound quality to be greatly improved and in a 1650 Sq. Ft. condo constructed of steel and concrete walls, the transmission never faded or dropped out, nor were there any dead spots. Entering numbers into the 50 number directory is a snap since all entries made from any handset are automatically updated for use by all other handsets in the system. Handsets are automatically assigned an individual number from 1 – 12 depending on the number of handsets in the system, that appears in the display. A blue backlit display makes for easy visibility of the data information being shown as well as highlighting the numeric keypad in the dark. Incoming calls cause it to light up on all the handsets even when the ringer is turned off. In the event of a power failure, or dead battery, all stored directory information, phone preference settings, outgoing message and recorded messages are retained. An intercom feature allows one handset to contact another, or the transfer of a call to another handset. Some of the other features include: caller ID/call waiting; 14 minute answering machine; handset speakerphone that works exceptionally well; possible addition of optional handsets to a maximum of 12; conference outside calls to other handsets; any key answer; remote message retrieval; handset volume control; last number redial; page/handset locater; selectable ring tones; wall mounting bracket; compatible with hearing aid T-coil.
Two features need improvement. The wall mount bracket needs a compartment, or pocket to hide the excess cables of the line and power cords. The caller ID feature needs to offer a talking capability that announces the name and number of the incoming caller, a feature that is not available on any of the VTECH models, but is available on many competitive brands. I rate this feature high on my list of must haves in this day and age of nuisance calls. One caller ID feature that is nice is that all incoming call numbers are stored for future review unless you delete them. Also, during my two-month test, I had one handset fail. Simply unplugging the battery momentarily reset the phone and corrected the problem, a common solution for most of today’s electronics. It would also be nice if the directory capacity were increased to 100. All things considered I give the VTECH system one thumbs up and DECT 6.0, three thumbs up. VTECH phones are available at retail locations and on-line. For more details go to www.vtechphones.com
MSRP: $129.95
VTECH is a registered trademark of VTECH TELECOMMUNICATIONS, LTD.
Bob Skidmore is a freelance writer who may be contacted at bskidmore@mac.com or twitter.com/bskidmore.
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