5.8 GHz FHSS (frequency-hopping digital spread spectrum) * 4-line backlit LCD shows Call Waiting Caller ID info (where available; subscription required) * illuminated keypad * silver finish * 50-entry personal directory * 50 Caller ID memories * NiMH rechargeable battery * base/charger * warranty: 1 year
The Panasonic KX-TGA520M handset is a supplemental accessory for Panasonic's KX-TG5200M-series phone systems. Operating on the same 5.8 GHz frequency as the base system and employing digital spread spectrum technology, this handset features all the basic functions you've come to rely on.
Supporting caller ID/call waiting, the handset features a three-line backlit LCD to let you see who's calling when the phone rings, or who has called while you were out. It also features talking caller ID, which audibly announces your caller's name or number through the speakerphone. A light-up antenna visually alerts you to new calls and messages. Additional features include an illuminated keypad, headset compatibility, and a variety of ring tones.
What's in the Box
KX-TGA520M handset and charging cradle, AC power adapter, belt clip, NiMH battery, instruction sheet, warranty information
Note: This is not a standalone phone. It requires a Panasonic base system (sold separately) to function.
1 Panasonic does it again( KX-TG5202M )
Last phone was a Panasonic it endured 11-12 years of daily use.Purchased the KX-TG5200M,for it's features,2 phone set,speaker phone,ect.So far so good.I don't for-see any problems.
The volume control is outstanding,clarity is good.Topping it off they are not that bad to look at either.User friendly.Outstanding product.I don't expect nothing less from a Panasonic.
2 Annoying Caller ID Problem and Disappointing Quality
We bought the KX-TG5210M and the optional extra handset (KX-TGA520M) in Dec. 2004. The display on the option handset quit working in Jan. 2005. Like the other reviewer said, a phone that doesn't work is worthless. In addition, after answering a call on one of the handsets, the other handset (the one I didn't answer) shows a missed call even though I just answered it. This is annoying because you can't keep track of calls you missed because some of the calls shown as missed were actually answered.
3 Great Phone
This is a great phone that has great features. Don't listen to the negative hype. There is usually a great rebate offer too. I got 20 bucks and I think they are up to 30 now.
This handheld phone has seven different ringers (on the base unit KX-TG5240M), and can control all the base unit functions. It can also be used to monitor a room (like a baby monitor), check the voice mail, phone to phone conference, multiple (up to 5) conference, and many many more features. If you have multiple handsets, you can use it as a pager for each OR all handsets at a time.
I experience excellent clarity several hundred feet away from the house, and that is through three concrete walls. This model comes equipped with NiMH batteries, which beat the heck out of NiCd in both capacity and long (battery memory free) life, which is a huge bonus, considering how much replacement batteries cost nowadays.
My wife loves the talking caller ID so that see doesn't have to cross the room or even clean her hands while cooking to answer some annoying telemarketer.
Good quality, good clarity, and the longest lasting best batteries!
4 Needs improvement
For about a month, I've been using this system with a total of 3 handsets for VoIP. Sounds great, I like the feel and some of the features like speaker phone and talking caller ID. Here's what I'd add/change:
When one handset answers the phone, the other handsets should not display a missed call.
One handset should be able to erase all the other handsets missed call log.
The handsets should display the time and date.
The handsets should be able to supercede the caller ID. Meaning: when the phonebook is programmed with a friends work number and the handset receives the call from the friend, the company's name displays instead of the friend's name in the phone book.
Single button dialing to the carriers voice mail system. Doesn't make much sense to press the VM button and then the talk button or vice-versa.
5 Steer clear...
I bought the base station (KX-TG5200M) and a second handset (KX-TGA520M) and both failed within 2 months. (Comapred to my last Panasonic 900MHz phone that lasted 8+ years and counting...)
The features on this phone are great and worth 5 stars (programmable phone book, room-to-room monitor, multiple voicemail inboxes) but a great phone that doesn't work is worthless.
