Cingular Go Phone: Uniden TRU9485 Expandable Cordless System with Digital Answering System, Dual Keypad and Call Waiting/Caller ID Review

The introduction of 2.4GHz-based 802.11b/g wireless computer networks will spell the end of many 2.4GHz-based cordless phone systems. Though one can continue to use the phones, the interference they cause with wireless computer networks is a nagging problem. The solution is to either upgrade your cordless phones or your wireless computer network to 5.8GHz. For most, upgrading the phone will be simpler and cheaper than upgrading the network.

But selecting a new cordless phone is no simple proposition. There are dozens of variables to consider, and a wide range of brands, models and prices. Rather than searching primarily by price, many will find it easier to search by the specifics of their functional needs, narrow the results by reviews and brand reputation, and then narrow further by price.

My search began with these technical requirements:

·5.8GHz in both directions (some manufacturers extend handset battery by using 5.8Ghz base-to-handset, and 2.4GHz handset-to-base).
·Digital handset-to-base transmission, and with some form of frequency-hopping spread spectrum technology for security.
·System extendable to at least three cordless handsets.
·Handsets must include headphone jack and speakerphone.
·Base unit must include digital answering machine.
·Excellent audio (listening and speaking from handset and headphone jacks.
·Useable audio (listening and speaking) from speakerphone.
·Ergonomic handset with positive-touch buttons of reasonable size.

I'm particularly uninterested in cordless phones that attempt to mimic the size, weight and ergonomics of cellular handsets. I do not carry my cordless phone in my pocket, and I have no need to trade ergonomics for portability.

Items that do not concern me include:

·Caller ID.
·Phone book.
·Cordless range longer than 25-feet.

With that, I researched dozens of products that met some or all of my basic criteria, including models from Motorola, AT&T, Uniden, Panasonic, VTech and several others.All but the Uniden TRU9485 (which is available in the base single-handset package, as well as 2- and 3-handset packages) failed one or more criteria -- typically ergonomics.The TCX905 handset (supplied with the TRU9485 system) could still use slightly larger number buttons, but compared to all the other models I inspected in person, it was the easiest to dial.

The TRU9485 has all the basics I listed above, plus many extras that are very handy:

·Two handsets can participate in a call simultaneously.
·Room/baby monitoring that allows any handset to monitor any other handset.
·Handset-to-handset communication, either as an intercom, or directly without engaging the base.
·System time and date set from any handset.
·Single touch "do not disturb" button on base unit silences all ringers.
·Phonebook entries can be sent from any station to any other station.
·Remote answering machine control from any handset.
·3 number redial list.
·100 number caller ID list.
·Separate mute and hold functions.
·Detailed, easy-to-follow instructions.

And lots more. The system is compatible with a number of Uniden handsets, including TCX805, TCX400, TCX440, TWX977, ELX 500) and the TCX905 included with base. Everything you need is included, including batteries, belt clips, and even a phone line for the base unit.

The TX905 handset has a nice weight, and the buttons have a positive feel that lets you know when they've been pressed. The display is easy to read, and the internalized antenna is a plus.

There are very few things I dislike about this system, all of which are drawbacks with nearly every cordless system out there:

·Limited ring tones/tunes.
·Only three ring volume levels (off, low, high).
·Short answering machine record time (12 minutes).
·Answering machine security code is only 2 digits.
·Always-on lights on handset base units waste power.

Overall this system is a terrific improvement over the 2.4 GHz system that it replaced, and other than the typical cheesy, electronic ringtones, there's really no major improvements I could think of. [©2006 hyperbolium dot com]

Click Here to see more reviews about: Uniden TRU9485 Expandable Cordless System with Digital Answering System, Dual Keypad and Call Waiting/Caller ID

Product Description:
Expandable cordless system with digital answering system, dual keypad, and Call Waiting/Caller ID.IntegriSound life-like audio, 100-name phonebook with 2 phone numbers per name, up to 100-number Caller ID memory, handset speakerphone, headset compatible, 4-way conferencing, base to handset call transfer, intercom between handsets, transfer phonebook memory between handsets, room/baby monitor, DirectLink 2-way radio feature, call screening, trilingual voice promts, new message LED indicator, time and date stamp, call and memo recording, animated display, backlit display, trilingual menus, dual Caller ID display, clock display, IntegriSound natural sounding ansering system, 20 ring tone options, personal ring feature, do not disturb setting, lighted keypad, belt clilp included, last 3-number redial, mute/hold features, wall mountable