5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum operation * multi-handset operation (add up to 3 optional cordless handsets for a total of 4) * Voice Enhancer Technology (adds lost frequencies back to voices)Panasonic's KX-TG5200M utilizes 5.8 GHz DSS signal operation for increased call security and range and less interference. Call waiting/caller ID-ready, the phone offers a 50-call memory and dialer, accessible through the handset's three-line backlit LCD. And, it's expandable, accommodating up to three additional handsets (for a total of four).
You can pre-program frequently called numbers, even chain dialing for automated systems that require a series of numeric inputs. The KX-TG5200M is Caller IQ compatible, a service that allows you to receive updates on weather, sports, horoscopes, and more, that are sent directly to your telephone and displayed on the handset screen (requires optional service).
What's in the Box
KX-TG5200M handset and base, battery cover, AC power adapter, phone line cord, belt clip, NiMH battery, user guide, warranty information
1 Middle-aged Mom
THIS IS THE WORST PHONE I HAVE EVER OWNED! DO NOT BUY THIS PHONE.This is my first review of anything, but I felt this phone was so bad and expensive that you needed to be warned.
The display goes blank so you cannot read caller ID and it is impossible to hear anyone or be heard.
I bought this phone through Amazon in December 2004. Do not buy!
2 Perfect for use near my WiFi
I had been using an old 900mhz phone that was dying quickly, so I set out to buy a new 5.8ghz phone. I have an Apple Airport set up for my WiFi, and the phone needs to sit near the base station. I had a Panasonic Cordless phone once and it lasted FOREVER!. I had that phone for over 10 years, but then one day I started getting to much interference, so I switched to another brand, and then another. Finally I bought this model and am THRILLED with it. No defects, no problems, great quality. I especially appreciate the fact that you can actually set a pleasant ring tone on it that wont cause you to jump out of your skin. I LOVE that fact!
3 Faulty product, don't buy it!!
Check out the below (cut and past into your browser address) - all of these panasonic phones have problems. This is about a pending class action lawsuit against Panasonic.
http://www.sheller.com/Practice.asp?PracticeID=140
4 KX-TG5200M Doesn't Interfere with 802.11g Network
The main reason I purchased this phone was to replace my Panasonic 2.4 GHz phone which interfered with my 802.11g wireless network. When the 2.4 GHz phone would ring or when we would talk on it, it would disconnect my laptop's wireless Internet connection.
It seems there are very few phones that are "true" 5.8 GHz models. Most AT&T, GE, Uniden and VTECH 5.8 GHz cordless phones utilize 5.8 GHz transmission from the base station to the handset and then 2.4 GHz from the handset to the base station. Not sure why except that it must be cheaper. In any case, this means that most 5.8 GHz phones may still potentially interfere with an 802.11g network.
The Panasonic KX-TG5200M uses 5.8 GHz transmissions in both directions, is packed with features (caller ID on the handset, softkey for one-touch dialing to voicemail, speakerphone on handset) and is reasonably priced. It also allows for up to four expansion handsets. Make sure you buy the expandable base before you buy the expansion handsets as the latter won't work without the former.
Call clarity has been great and there are no longer interference issues with my 802.11g network.
I'll likely give my four-year old 2.4 GHz phone to a friend or relative as it still works fine.
