The VTech i5801 is an accessory handset designed to expand VT5831 or i5881 cordless phone systems, supporting up to 6 handsets. It requires a compatible base unit for operation. This manual covers setup, registration, and basic functions; refer to the base unit manual for detailed operations. Features include intercom, phonebook (50 entries), caller ID log (50 records), redial (10 numbers), customizable pictures/sounds, speakerphone, and USB for images. Below are the key specifications, installation, operation, programming, and troubleshooting instructions.
Unpack the handset and ensure all components are present: i5801 Handset, Rechargeable Battery Pack (2.4V 1400mAh NiMH), Charger, Power Supply (6V DC @ 300mA), Belt Clip, Owner's Manual, Audio Patch Cable (for recordings), USB Cable (for images). Before using, carefully peel off the protective film covering the displays. Place away from water, heat sources, and interference. Requires compatible base (VT5831 or i5881) for full operation.
WARNING! Failure to read and follow all instructions carefully before installing or operating this control could cause personal injury and/or property damage. Save these instructions.
The VTech i5801 is a color accessory handset with 5-way joystick navigation, speakerphone, headset/belt clip compatibility, and USB for image downloads. Supports intercom with base/handsets, phonebook (50 entries with distinctive rings/images), caller ID (50 records), redial (10 numbers), customizable pictures/sounds (recordable ringers), and menu shortcuts. Handset layout: Joystick (navigate/select), soft keys, ON/FLASH, OFF/CLEAR, speakerphone, MUTE/DEL, INTERCOM, volume keys, LCD display, headset jack (2.5mm), charging contacts.
Applications: Expansion for VT5831/i5881 cordless systems; Residential multi-handset telephony.
CAUTION! To prevent electrical shock/equipment damage, unplug before installation. Use only supplied adapters and NiMH batteries.
WARNING! Do not use near water; avoid rough treatment. Batteries: Insert with correct polarity; do not mix types; remove if unused long-term; do not short-circuit or dispose in fire. Supervise children. Clean with soft damp cloth; avoid direct sunlight/heat/moisture.
Remove battery compartment cover by pressing indent and sliding downward; insert battery pack with metal contacts aligned; replace cover by sliding upward. Place handset in charger and charge for at least 12 hours (initial charge). Plug charger power supply into unswitched electrical outlet. Peel off protective film from display before use. For registration: Screen shows "Enter Base ID"; on base (powered off), MENU > DISPLAY BASE-ID > OK for 15-digit code; enter on handset using dialing keys (joystick left to backspace); press OK; wait 15-60 seconds for beeps and extension assignment (1-6).
After charging/registration, press ON or SPEAKERPHONE for dial tone (wait 1-2 seconds). Test by dialing a number and adjusting volume. Verify speakerphone LED on during use. Press INTERCOM for internal call to base/other handsets. Check phonebook access via menu key 2.
Access menu: Press joystick or left soft key from idle; navigate with joystick, select with in/press or number keys (1=Intercom, 2=Phonebook, etc.).
Recordable Ringer: Menu > Sounds & Alerts > Sound Clips > RECORD (up to 10s, name/save to My Clips). Pictures: Download via USB/software from CD; edit/save to My Pictures (up to 14); assign to wallpaper/phonebook.
Changes activate immediately.
Access via menu key 6: Time (auto via CID), Contrast (levels), Reset (clear clips/pictures/phonebook/defaults), Language (English/Spanish/French), Register (Base ID screen), Appearance (text color: Blue/Green/Tan/Rose).
| Setting | Default | Options | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ringer Volume | Medium | On/Off/Vibrate levels | Menu > Sounds & Alerts > Ringer Control |
| Ringer Tone | Preset 1 | 8 traditional + 12 recordable | Menu > Sounds & Alerts > Ringers |
| Key Tone | On | On/Off | Menu > Sounds & Alerts > Tones |
| Time/Date | Auto | Manual | Menu > Settings > Time |
| Language | English | English/Spanish/French | Menu > Settings > Language |
| Contrast | Medium | Low/Med/High | Menu > Settings > Contrast |
Set Time/Date: Menu > Settings > Time > Enter > SAVE.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Phone doesn't work at all | Power cord loose, line cord insecure, batteries low, not registered. | Check connections; charge batteries; verify registration. |
| No dial tone | Connections loose. | Secure cords; test with another phone; contact telephone company. |
| Noise/static/weak signal near base | Interference from appliances. | Move base/appliance; try different outlet. |
| Noise/static/weak signal away from base | Range issue. | Move closer; relocate base. |
| Handset does not ring | Ringer off, range low. | Set ringer on; move closer; check cords. |
| Handset vibrates/shakes on call | Vibrating ringer on. | Turn off in Sounds & Alerts > Ringer Control. |
| Hear other calls | Wiring issue. | Test with regular phone; contact company. |
| Noise in handset, keys don't work | Power issue. | Disconnect/reconnect power/battery; wait, reinstall. |
| Low battery persists after charging | Battery defective. | Replace battery pack. |
| Invalid Base ID | Entry error. | Re-enter 15-digit code carefully. |
| Phonebook full | 50 entries max. | Delete entries. |
Care: Wipe with soft damp cloth; store batteries removed if long unused.