® User’s manual w w w .v t e c h p h o n e s .
Congratulations on purchasing your new VTech product. Before using this telephone, please read Important safety instructions on page 107 of this manual. This manual has all the feature operations and troubleshooting necessary to install and operate your new VTech telephone. Please review this manual thoroughly to ensure proper installation and operation of this innovative and feature rich VTech product. For support, shopping, and everything new at VTech, visit our website at www.vtechphones.com.
Table of contents Getting started............................1 Parts checklist.............................. 1 Installation.................................... 2 Telephone base and charger installation................... 3 Battery installation ...................... 4 Battery charging........................... 5 Installation options....................... 6 Tabletop to wall mount installation . ................... 6 Wall mount to tabletop installation................................. 7 Handset layout......
Table of contents Caller ID........................................68 About caller ID.............................. 68 Information about caller ID with call waiting......................... 68 Caller ID history............................ 69 Memory match ............................ 69 Review the caller ID log .............. 70 View dialing options..................... 71 Dial a caller ID log entry . ............ 71 Save a caller ID log entry to the directory..........................
Table of contents Message window displays........... 86 Remote access............................ 87 Appendix......................................88 Display screen messages............ 88 Handset and telephone base indicators.......................... 93 Expand your telephone system...................... 95 Add and register a handset.......... 95 Deregister handsets..................... 96 Troubleshooting............................ 97 Important safety instructions........ 107 Battery......................
Getting started Parts checklist Your telephone contains the following items. Save your sales receipt and original packaging in the event warranty service is necessary.
Getting started Installation Install the telephone base close to a telephone jack and a power outlet not connected to a wall switch. For optimum range and better reception, place the telephone base in a central and open location. When using a Bluetooth wireless technology enabled cell phone with this telephone, make sure the cell phone is within 15 feet of the telephone base to maintain a reliable connection between the cell phone and telephone base.
Getting started Telephone base and charger installation Install the telephone base and charger(s) as shown below. Make sure that the electrical outlet is not controlled by a wall switch. If you subscribe to digital subscriber line (DSL) high-speed Internet service through your telephone line, you must install a DSL filter between the telephone line cord and the telephone wall jack. The filter prevents noise and caller ID problems caused by DSL interference.
Getting started Battery installation Install the battery as shown below. 1. Plug the battery connector securely into the socket inside the handset battery compartment, matching the color-coded label. 2. Place the battery with the label THIS SIDE UP facing up and the wires inside the battery compartment. 3. Align the cover flat against the battery compartment, then slide it towards the center of the handset until it clicks into place. 4. Charge the handset by placing it in the telephone base or charger.
Getting started Battery charging Once you have installed the battery, the handset LCD display indicates the battery status (see the table below). • For best performance, keep the handset in the telephone base or charger when not in use. • The battery is fully charged after 16 hours of continuous charging. • If you place the handset in the telephone base or the charger without plugging in the battery, the screen displays No battery.
Getting started Installation options Your telephone base is ready for tabletop use. If �������������������������� you want to mount your telephone on a wall, use the provided wall mount bracket to connect with a standard dual-stud telephone wall mounting plate. If you do not have this mounting plate, you can purchase one from many hardware or consumer electronics retailers. You may need a professional to install the mounting plate. Tabletop to wall mount installation 1.
Getting started Wall mount to tabletop installation 1. If the telephone line cord and power adapter cord are bundled, untie them first. 2. Slide the black wall mount bracket up and remove it from the wall plate. Unplug the telephone line cord (or DSL filter) from the wall. Unplug the power adapter from the power outlet. 3. Slide the telephone base up and remove it from the wall mount bracket. 4. See Telephone base and charger installation on page 3.
Getting started Handset layout CHARGE light On when the handset is charging in the telephone base or charger. Softkeys (2) Press to select a menu item displayed above the key. While in a menu, press to select an item, or save an entry or setting. /CELL Press to make or answer a cell call (page 44). During a cell call, press to answer an incoming call when you hear a call waiting alert (page 44). Flashes quickly when there is an incoming cell call. Flashes slowly when a cell call is on hold.
Getting started Handset layout (continued) VOL/ / While in a menu, press to scroll up. During a call or message playback, press to increase the listening volume (page 47 or page 84). When the handset is not in use, press to enter the directory (page 63). When entering numbers and names in the directory, press to move the cursor to the left. MUTE/DELETE While on a call, press to mute the microphone (page 47).
Getting started Handset layout (continued) PUSH TO TALK (PTT) Press to begin a one-to-one or one-to-group broadcast (page 57 and page 58). Press and hold to broadcast to a group of handsets when the handset is not in use (page 58).
Getting started Telephone base layout REPEAT/ Press to repeat a message or press twice to play the previous message (page 83). DELETE/X Press to delete the message currently playing (page 83). When the phone is not in use, press twice to delete all previously reviewed messages (page 85). /FIND HANDSET Press to page all system handsets (page 48). SKIP/ Press to skip to the next message (page 83). PLAY/STOP/ Press to play messages (page 83). Press to stop message playback (page 83).
Getting started Telephone base layout (continued) /VOL/ Press to adjust the volume during message playback (page 83). When the phone is not in use, press to adjust the telephone base ringer volume (page 41). D1/D2 lights On when the telephone base is paired and connected with a Bluetooth device. Flashes when there is an incoming cell call. Alternate when the telephone base is in discoverable mode. IN USE light On when the handset or headset is in use.
Getting started Handset main menu To enter the main menu: 1. Press MENU when the handset is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight a handset feature menu, then press SELECT to enter that menu. To return to the previous menu, press OFF/CANCEL. To return to idle mode, press and hold OFF/CANCEL. Play messages - play messages from the answering system. Play messages Answering sys Directory Caller ID log Intercom BACK SELECT Answering sys - record memos and change your answering system settings.
Getting started Handset main menu (continued) Ringers - set up ringers for the home and cell lines. Set date/time - set up the date and time of your telephone. Directory Caller ID log Intercom Bluetooth Ringers BACK SELECT Caller ID log Intercom Bluetooth Ringers Set date/time BACK SELECT Settings - change your telephone settings. Website - displays the VTech website address.
Bluetooth Introducing Bluetooth Your new DS6421 telephone system with Bluetooth wireless technology has the following features: • Pair up to four Bluetooth enabled devices (cell phones or headsets) with the telephone base. • Connect a maximum of two cell phones to make and receive cell calls. Only one cell phone can be active on a call at a time. • Connect one Bluetooth enabled headset for making and receiving home calls. • Conference cell and home calls.
Bluetooth Glossary of terms Below are some terms used in this user’s manual to help you become familiar with using your Bluetooth enabled devices and your new DS6421 telephone system. Active device slots - the Device list has two active slots for two cell phones, or one cell phone and one headset. When a device on the list is active, D1 or D2 displays in front of the device name. In order to use a Bluetooth device on a call, it must be in an active slot and be connected.
Bluetooth Bluetooth setup To use a Bluetooth enabled cell phone or headset with your DS6421, you must first pair and connect your Bluetooth device(s) with the telephone base. All DS6421 handsets can be used to make or answer on the cell phone line. Bluetooth wireless technology operates within a short range (30 feet). When you pair a Bluetooth cell phone or Bluetooth headset to the telephone base, move closer to the telephone base to maintain sufficient signal strength.
Bluetooth Add a cell phone (continued) 5. Press NEXT to turn on the telephone base discoverable mode. The handset displays Set cell to search base: VTech DS6421 discoverable PIN: 0000. Promptly turn on the Bluetooth feature of your cell phone and search for or add new devices. • Your cell phone may require a passcode. In this case, the handset displays Check cellular. ENTER PASS CODE. Enter the cell phone passcode into the handset and press SET to save. 6.
Bluetooth Add a headset Before you begin, make sure that your Bluetooth enabled headset is not connected to any other Bluetooth device. Refer to your headset user's manual to learn how to search for or add new Bluetooth devices. To pair and connect a headset: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Bluetooth, then press SELECT. 3. Press SELECT to choose Add device. 4. Press or to highlight Add headset, then press SELECT.
Bluetooth Add a headset (continued) 9. When a device is successfully connected, the handset displays Headset A is added and connected to base and the corresponding status icon ( 1 or 2). You hear a confirmation tone. The corresponding light on the telephone base (D1 or D2) turns on. Adding Headset A to device list... If you have trouble pairing your headset, it may be not compatible with your DS6421. Check the Bluetooth compatibility list at www.vtechphones.com.
Bluetooth Connecting devices Up to four devices can be paired to the telephone base. All paired devices are shown on the device list. To use a paired device, it must be in an active slot (D1 or D2) on the device list and connected. Only one Bluetooth cell phone or a headset can be on a call at a time. Once you have paired a device with the telephone base, you do not need to repeat the pairing procedure again unless you delete the device from the device list.
Bluetooth Remove a device When you already have the maximum of four paired devices on the device list and you want to add another device, you must first delete a device from the device list. 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. or to highlight Bluetooth, then 2. Press press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Device list, then press SELECT. or to highlight a desired device when 4. Press necessary, then press MUTE /DELETE.
Bluetooth Rename a device You can change the name of a device on the device list. 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. or to highlight Bluetooth, then 2. Press press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Device list, then press SELECT. or to choose a desired device when 4. Press necessary, then press OPTION. 5. Press or to highlight Rename, then press SELECT. The handset displays ENTER NEW NAME. 6. Use the dialing keys to edit the name (up to 15 characters).
Bluetooth Replace an active device If you already have two active devices on the device list and you want to activate a different device, you must deactivate one of the two active devices. To replace an active device: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Bluetooth, then press SELECT. or to highlight Device list, then 3. Press press SELECT. 4. Press or to highlight the device you want to activate, without a prefix D1: or D2:, then press OPTION.
Bluetooth Download directory You can download up to four cell phone directories (phonebooks) to your DS6421 telephone system via Bluetooth wireless technology. Each downloaded directory can store up to 1,500 entries with up to 30 digits for each phone number and 15 characters for each name. Before downloading the directory, make sure the cell phone is paired, active and connected to the DS6421. Make sure the handset battery is charged for at least 10 minutes.
Bluetooth Download directory (continued) • If the selected device’s directory has already been downloaded to the DS6421 before, the handset 1 displays the last update date of your cell phone. The Cell Phone A directory stored on the DS6421 for that cell phone will be erased and replaced with the current cell Downloading phone directory. If you have edited the downloaded entry #XXXX entries (page 64), those changes will be lost. Press NEXT to start the download, the handset displays STOP Erasing directory...
Bluetooth Interruption to directory download When you are downloading a directory from a cell phone and the phone receives a call, the download process stops and all handsets display Download fail after the call ends. When you try to view the downloaded directory, the handset displays Last download failed: MM/DD/YY. You need to download the directory again (see page 25). When you are downloading a directory from a cell phone and the telephone base loses power, the download process stops.
Bluetooth Change PIN You are required to enter a PIN when establishing a Bluetooth connection. The default Pin of your telephone base is 0000. BLUETOOTH Add device Device list Download dir Change PIN BACK SELECT To change the PIN: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Bluetooth, then press SELECT. ENTER 3. Press or to highlight Change PIN, then press SELECT. The handset displays ENTER NEW PIN and the existing PIN. 4.
Telephone settings Handset settings Ringers In the ringers menu, you can select the ringer tones and adjust the ringer volume for incoming calls to the home and cell lines. Ringer volume You can adjust the ringer volume for the incoming home and cell calls. To adjust the handset ringer volume: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Ringers, then press SELECT. 3. Press SELECT to choose Ringer volume. 4.
Telephone settings Ringer tone You can select the ringer tones for the incoming home and cell calls. To select a ringer tone: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Ringers, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Ringer tone, then press SELECT. 4. Press or to highlight All lines, Home, Cell-D1 or Cell-D2, then press SELECT. 5. Press or to sample each ringer tone. 6. Press SET to save. You hear a confirmation tone.
Telephone settings Set date and time he answering system announces the day and time of each message prior T to playing it. If you subscribe to caller ID service, the day, month and time are set automatically with each incoming call. If you do not want to set the date and time automatically with caller ID information, turn this feature off (see CID time synchronization on page 36). However, the year must be correct so that the day of the week can be calculated from the caller ID information.
Telephone settings Settings In the settings menu, you can modify the settings for LCD language, display alerts, CID time synchronization, handset name, key tone, dial mode and caller ID announce. LCD language You can select a language (English, French or Spanish) to be used in all screen displays. To select a language: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Settings, then press SELECT. 3. Press SELECT to choose LCD language. 4.
Telephone settings Display alerts In the display alerts menu, you can change and edit the settings for display alerts on the idle screen. Missed call indicator When there are missed calls that have not been reviewed in the caller ID log, the handsets show XX Missed calls. Each time you review a caller ID log entry marked NEW, the number of missed calls decreases by one. When you have reviewed all the missed calls, the missed calls indicator disappears.
Telephone settings Display alerts (continued) Voicemail indicators If you subscribe to voicemail service offered by your telephone service provider, New voicemail and appear on the handsets when you have new voicemail messages. Contact your telephone service provider for more information and assistance about using your voicemail service. After you have listened to all new voicemail messages, the indicators on the handsets turn off automatically.
Telephone settings Display alerts (continued) No line If there is no telephone line connected to the telephone base, the handsets show No home line. If you do not want to display the message on the handsets (for example, if you use the cell line only), you can turn off the no line alert. To turn the no line alert on or off: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Settings, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Display alerts, then press SELECT. 4.
Telephone settings CID time synchronization If you subscribe to caller ID service, the date and time will be set automatically by the caller ID information. You can turn off this feature if you want to set the date and time manually. To change the setting: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Settings, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight CID time sync, then press SELECT. 4. Press or to choose On or Off, then press SET to save. You hear a confirmation tone.
Telephone settings Key tone You can change the volume of the key tone or turn it off. To change the setting: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Settings, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Key tone, then press SELECT. 4. Press or to sample each volume level. Press SET to save. - OR Press OFF to turn off the key tone, then press SET to save. You hear a confirmation tone.
Telephone settings Caller ID announce You can set your handset and/or telephone base to announce the caller ID information for incoming calls. The caller ID announce setting is independent for each handset and the telephone base. To change the setting: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Settings, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Annc Caller ID, then press SELECT. 4. Press or to highlight Handset or Base, then press SELECT. 5.
Telephone settings Website You can use this feature to view the VTech website address. 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Website, then press SELECT. The handset displays the VTech website. 3. Press OK to exit. Bluetooth Ringers Set date/time Settings Website BACK SELECT www. vtechphones.
Telephone settings Cell area code Most cell phone entries are stored in a 10-digit format. If all of your cell phone entries are stored this way, you do not need to program your cell area code. If your cell phone stores entries in a 7-digit format, we recommend that you program your cell area code so that your 7-digit directory entries can be dialed correctly using your home line.
Telephone settings Telephone base settings Telephone base ringer volume Press /VOL or /VOL on the side of telephone base to adjust the ringer volume when the telephone is not in use. When you set the ringer volume to zero, the base ringer is off and the system announces, “Base ringer is off.” Press /VOL during an incoming call to mute the ringer temporarily. See page 29 to set the handset ringer volume.
Telephone operation Make, answer or end a home call Using a handset: To make a home call: • Press /HOME/FLASH or telephone number. , then enter the To predial a home call: • Enter the telephone number, then press /HOME/FLASH or . To answer a home call: • Press /HOME/FLASH or . To end a home call: • Press OFF/CANCEL or put the handset in the telephone base or charger. • The screen shows the elapsed time as you talk (in hours, minutes and seconds).
Telephone operation Make, answer or end a home call (continued) To transfer a call from a handset to a Bluetooth headset: If you make or answer a home call on a handset, you can transfer the call to your headset. The handset remains active, but the handset earpiece and microphone are muted. If you hang up the handset, the call will end. • Press OPTION. • Press or to choose Use BT headset, then press SELECT twice.
Telephone operation Make, answer or end a cell call You can connect a maximum of two Bluetooth enabled cell phones to the telephone base, but only one cell phone can be used on a cell call at a time. All DS6421 handsets can be used to make or answer calls on the cell phone line. To make a cell call: • Press /CELL. • Enter the telephone number, then press DIAL. - OR • Enter the telephone number, then press /CELL.
Telephone operation Answer a cell call while on a home call When you are on a home call and you receive an incoming cell call, you hear a beep, and 1 or 2 displays on the handset you are using. The telephone base and all other handsets ring. To answer the incoming cell call: • Press /CELL on the handset. The home call is automatically placed on hold and all other handsets display Home call on hold and Cell line in use alternately. To end the cell call: • Press OFF/CANCEL on the handset.
Telephone operation Conference home and cell calls When you have calls established on the home and cell lines, you can create a 3-way conference. To conference both home and cell calls: 1. Press OPTION. 2. Press or to highlight Conference. 3. Press SELECT. The handset displays Lines now in conference. To select an option while on a conference call: 1. Press OPTION. 2. Press or to highlight one of the following options: • End home line • End cell line • End Conference • Directory • Caller ID log 3.
Telephone operation Handset speakerphone During a call, press handset use. to switch between speakerphone and normal Volume control During a call, press VOL/ / or VOL/ /CID to adjust the listening volume. You hear an in-ear beep while adjusting. If you turn off the key tone, the inear beep will not be heard. If this is a cell call and the volume is too loud or quiet, try changing the volume on your cell phone.
Telephone operation Temporary tone dialing If you have pulse (rotary) service only, you can switch from pulse to touchtone dialing temporarily during a call. This is useful if you need to send touchtone signals to access your telephone banking or long distance services. During a call: 1. Press . 2. Use the dialing keys to enter the relevant number. The telephone sends touch-tone signals. 3. The telephone automatically returns to pulse dialing mode after you end the call.
Telephone operation Equalizer The equalizer feature on the handset enables you to change the quality of the handset audio to best suit your hearing. While on a call, an intercom, a PTT session, or listening to a message or announcement, press to select the equalizer setting Treble 1, Treble 2, Bass or Natural (the default setting) for the handset. You hear an in-ear beep while adjusting. If you turn off the key tone, the in-ear beep will not be heard.
Telephone operation Chain dialing Use this feature to initiate a dialing sequence from numbers stored in the directory, caller ID log or redial while you are on a call. Chain dialing can be useful if you wish to access other numbers (such as bank account numbers or access codes) from the directory, caller ID log or redial list. To access a number in the directory while on a call: 1. Press OPTION. 2. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. 3.
Telephone operation Redial list The redial list stores up to 10 of the most recently dialed numbers on each handset. When there are already 10 entries, the oldest entry is deleted to make room for the new entry. Entries are shown in reverse chronological order. Review the redial list 1. Press REDIAL/PAUSE when the handset is not in use. 2. Press , or REDIAL/PAUSE to browse. You hear a double beep when you reach the beginning or end of the redial list. Dial a redial entry 1.
Telephone operation Save a redial entry to the directory 1. 2. 3. 4. Press REDIAL/PAUSE when the handset is not in use. Press , or REDIAL/PAUSE to select the desired number. Press SAVE. The handset displays EDIT NUMBER. Use the dialing keys to edit the number, if necessary. • Press MUTE /DELETE to erase a digit. • Press and hold MUTE /DELETE to erase all digits. • Press to move the cursor to the right or to the left. • Press and hold REDIAL /PAUSE to insert a dialing pause (a p appears). 5. Press NEXT. 6.
Multiple handset use Share an outside call Another handset can join you on an outside call. That call continues until all people hang up. You can share an outside call with up to four system handsets. • Press /HOME/FLASH or on another handset to join the call. - OR • Press OPTION during an intercom call, then press or to highlight Share call. Press SELECT. Intercom Use the intercom feature for conversations between two system handsets. Only one intercom call can be established at a time.
Multiple handset use Intercom (continued) To silence an intercom call: • Press OFF/CANCEL , MUTE/DELETE or SILENCE on the destination handset. Its screen displays Ringer muted for a few seconds. To end an intercom call: • Press OFF/CANCEL, END or place either handset back in the telephone base or charger. Both handsets display Intercom ended. • You can cancel the intercom call before it is answered by pressing OFF/CANCEL or END on your handset.
Multiple handset use Transfer a call using intercom You can use the intercom feature to transfer an outside call to other system handsets. Directory 1. When on an outside call, press OPTION. Caller ID log 2. Press or to highlight Intercom, then press Intercom SELECT. The call is automatically put on hold. Bluetooth Ringers • If you have two handsets, your handset displays BACK SELECT Calling other handset. The destination handset rings and displays Other handset is calling.
Multiple handset use Push-to-talk (PTT) You can directly broadcast messages from one handset to the speakerphone of one or a group of handsets. Press and hold PUSH TO TALK to begin two-way communication. If only one handset is available or registered, the handset screen shows PTT requires two handsets when you press PUSH TO TALK. • Only one handset can talk at a time. To do so, press and hold PUSH TO TALK while you are speaking. • You must release PUSH TO TALK, so the other person can respond.
Multiple handset use PTT to a single handset 1. You have two ways to begin a PTT call: • If you have two handsets, press and hold PUSH TO TALK when handset is not in use. • If you have three or more handsets, press PUSH TO TALK when the handset is not in use. Then use the dialing keys to enter a handset number (1-9 for handsets 1-9, and 0 for handset 10, and 1 for handset 11 or and 2 for handset 12), or press or to scroll to the desired handset then press SELECT.
Multiple handset use PTT to multiple handsets When there are multiple handsets registered to the telephone system, PTT supports one-to-group calls. PTT supports a maximum of one-to-four calls when one to five handsets are registered, and a maximum of one-to-three calls when six or more handsets are registered. The first four registered handsets will be able to use this feature. Other handsets can only use PTT for one-to-one calls. 1.
Multiple handset use Answer a PTT call You can respond to a PTT call whenever the speakerphone light is off, as described below. 1. When your handset receives a PTT call, the handset beeps and displays Press and hold [PTT] to talk. 2. When the other party is speaking, your speakerphone light is on, and your handset displays PTT From HANDSET X To handset: Y (X represents the originating handset and Y represents the destination handset; a maximum of four handset numbers appear). 3.
Multiple handset use End a PTT call • • For a one-to-one PTT call, both the originating and destination handsets can end the PTT call. For a PTT call to multiple handsets, the originating handset can end the PTT call. If any one of the destination handsets leaves the PTT call, the call continues until all participants or the initiator hangs up. To end or leave a PTT call: Press OFF/CANCEL or place the handset in the telephone base or charger. The handset displays Push to talk Ended.
Directory About the directory Your phone directory consists of a home directory and up to four directories downloaded from cell phones. The home directory stores up to 200 entries with up to 30 digits for each phone number and 15 characters for each name. Each downloaded directory stores up to 1,500 entries with up to 30 digits for each phone number and 15 characters for each name. • Directory entries are stored at the telephone base and shared by all system handsets.
Directory Create a new entry in the home directory Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. Press OPTION to select Home. Press or to highlight Add contact, then press SELECT. The handset displays ENTER NUMBER. 5. Use the dialing keys to enter a telephone number (up to 30 digits). • Press MUTE /DELETE to erase a digit. • Press and hold MUTE /DELETE to erase all digits. • Press to move the cursor to the right or to the left.
Directory Review the directory Entries are sorted alphabetically. To review the directory: 1. Press VOL / / when the handset is not in use. 2. Press or to choose a directory, then press REVIEW. 3. Press or to browse. - OR 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to choose a directory, then press REVIEW. 4. Press or to browse. - OR 1. Press OPTION while on a call. 2. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. 3.
Directory Dial a directory entry You can dial a directory entry on either a home or cell line. To dial a directory entry: 1. Search for the desired entry in the directory (see Review the directory or 3-character alphabetical search on page 63). 2. When the desired entry appears, press # (pound key) 800-595-9511 repeatedly to show different dialing options. 1-800-595-9511 595-9511 3.
Directory Edit the type of a directory entry If you only want to edit the type of a directory entry: 1. Search for the desired entry in the directory (see Review the directory or 3-character alphabetical search on page 63). 2. When the desired entry appears, press LABEL. Enter the corresponding shortcut keys shown in the below table. Type: Press: Home 1 Cell 2 Work 3 Other 4 - OR Press CLEAR to erase the assigned label.
Directory Speed dial You can copy 10 of your directory entries to the speed dial slots (0-9). The speed dial entries are shared by all handsets. Assign a speed dial slot 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Press MENU on handset when it is not in use. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. Press or to highlight Speed dial, then press REVIEW. Press or to highlight an empty slot, then press ASSIGN. Press or to highlight the desired directory, then press REVIEW.
Directory Delete a speed dial entry 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Press MENU on handset when it is not in use. Press or to highlight Directory, then press SELECT. Press or to highlight Speed dial, then press REVIEW. Press or to highlight an assigned slot, then press DELETE. The handset displays Delete Entry A Speed dial assignment? Press YES to confirm. You hear a confirmation tone. Deleting speed dial entries does not affect the directory entries.
Caller ID About caller ID This product supports caller ID services provided by most telephone service providers. Depending on your service subscription, you may see the caller’s number, or the caller’s name and number from the telephone service provider after the first or second ring. Caller ID from the home line allows you to see the name, number, date and time of the incoming calls. The caller ID may appear differently if the caller is matched to a directory entry (see Memory match on page 69).
Caller ID Caller ID history If you subscribe to caller ID service provided by your telephone service provider and/or cell phone service provider, information about each caller appears after the first or second ring. If you answer a call before the caller information appears on the screen, it will not be saved in the caller ID log. • The home line and each cell phone paired to the DS6421 have their own caller ID log. • The caller ID log stores up to 50 entries.
Caller ID Review the caller ID log 1. Press VOL/ /CID when the handset is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight the desired line (home or cell), then press REVIEW. 3. Press or to browse. - OR 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use, or press OPTION while on a call. 2. Press or to highlight Caller ID log, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight the desired line (home or cell), then press REVIEW. 4. Press or to browse.
Caller ID View dialing options Although the caller ID log entries received have 10 digits (the area code plus the seven-digit number), in some areas, you may need to dial only the seven digits, or 1 plus the seven digits, or 1 plus the area code plus the seven digits. You can change the number of digits that you dial from the caller ID log or store to the directory.
Caller ID Save a caller ID log entry to the directory Caller ID log entries can only be saved to the Home directory. 1. Select a desired entry in the caller ID log (see Review the caller ID log on page 70). 2. When the desired entry appears, press # (pound key) repeatedly to show different dialing options. 3. When the number is in the correct format, press SAVE. The handset shows EDIT NUMBER. 4. Use the dialing keys to edit the number. • Press MUTE /DELETE to erase a digit.
Caller ID Delete from the caller ID log To delete a single entry: 1. Select a desired entry in the caller ID log (see Review the caller ID log on page 70). 2. When the desired entry appears, press MUTE /DELETE. The handset shows the previous caller ID log entry. You hear a confirmation tone. To delete all entries: 1. Press VOL/ /CID when the handset is not in use. 2. Press ERASE.
Answering system settings Answer on/off If you turn the answering system on, it answers calls and records messages only on the home line. If your paired cell phone has voicemail, callers can leave messages with that voicemail service. If your answering system is turned off and you change any of its settings, the answering system automatically turns on again and the handset displays Calls will be answered.
Answering system settings Announcement The telephone is preset with a greeting that answers calls with “Hello, please leave a message after the tone.” You can use this preset announcement, or replace it with your own. Play your announcement 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Answering sys, then press SELECT. 3. Press SELECT to choose Announcement. 4. The handset displays ANNOUNCEMENT, press PLAY.
Answering system settings Delete your announcement 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to choose Answering sys, then press SELECT. 3. Press SELECT to choose Announcement. 4. The handset displays ANNOUNCEMENT, press PLAY to play the announcement. 5. While the announcement is playing, press DELETE to delete your own recorded announcement. The handset displays Reset Announcement to default? Press YES to confirm. You hear a confirmation tone.
Answering system settings Answering system setup In the answering system setup menu, you can change the settings for call screening, number of rings, remote access code, message alert tone and recording time. Call screening Use this feature to choose whether incoming messages are broadcast from the telephone base speaker when they are being recorded. While monitoring an incoming message, you can press /HOME/FLASH or on the handset to answer the call. To change the setting: 1.
Answering system settings Number of rings When the answering system is turned on, it answers all incoming home calls after the number of rings set. You can choose from two, three, four, five or six rings; or toll saver. With toll saver selected, the answering system answers after two rings when you have new messages, and after four rings when you have no new messages.
Answering system settings Remote access code A two-digit security code is required to access the answering system remotely from any touch tone telephone. The preset code is 19. You can change the code to any number from 00 to 99. ANS SYS SETUP Call screening # of rings Remote code Msg alert tone BACK SELECT To change the setting: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Answering sys, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Ans sys setup, then REMOTE press SELECT.
Answering system settings Message alert tone When the answering system is turned on, the telephone beeps every 10 seconds to alert you of new messages. The tone stops when all new messages have been reviewed. The message alert tone is preset to off. To change the setting: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Answering sys, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Ans sys setup, then press SELECT. 4. Press or to highlight Msg alert tone, then press SELECT. 5.
Answering system operation Answering system and voicemail indicators Your telephone has separate indicators for two different types of voice messages: those left on its built-in answering system and those left at your service provider’s voicemail (fees may apply). Your telephone’s built-in answering system messages and voicemail messages are separate. Each alerts you to new messages differently.
Answering system operation Message capacity The answering system can record and store up to 99 messages. Each message can be up to three minutes depending on the message length set (see Recording time on page 80). The total storage capacity for the announcement, messages and memos is approximately 14 minutes. The actual recording time depends on individual message characteristics. Messages remain available for replay until you delete them.
Answering system operation Temporarily turning off the message alert tone If the message alert tone is turned on, the telephone base beeps every 10 seconds when there are new or missed messages. Pressing any telephone base key (except /FIND HANDSET) temporarily silences the message alert tone. If you press DELETE/X when in idle mode to temporarily turn off the message alert tone, there is a voice prompt directing you to press DELETE/X again to delete all old messages.
Answering system operation Message playback (continued) To play messages with a handset: 1. Press MENU to show the menu when the handset is not in use. 2. Press SELECT to choose Play messages. If you have either new or old messages, the messages play automatically. If you have both new and old messages: • To play new messages, press SELECT to select Play new msgs. • To play old messages, press /VOL or /VOL to highlight Play old msgs, then press SELECT.
Answering system operation Delete all old messages Using the telephone base: Press DELETE/X when the phone is not in use. The telephone announces, “To delete all old messages, press DELETE again.” Press DELETE/X again. All previously heard messages are erased and the telephone announces, “All old messages deleted.” Using a handset: 1. Press MENU on the handset when it is not in use. 2. Press or to highlight Answering sys, then press SELECT. 3. Press or to highlight Delete all old, then press SELECT. 4.
Answering system operation Message window displays Window display Description 0 No messages. 0 (flashing) The time and date need to be set. 1-99 Total number of old messages and memos recorded. The message number currently playing. 0-99 (flashing) When time and date are not set, it flashes 0, the total number of new messages recorded, or total number of old messages recorded. The telephone base may have lost and regained power. The clock needs to be set.
Answering system operation Remote access A two-digit security code is required to access the answering system remotely from any touch-tone telephone. The preset code is 19. See Remote access code on page 79 to change it. 1. Dial your telephone number from any touch-tone telephone. 2. When the system plays the announcement, enter the two-digit security code. 3. You can also enter one of the following remote commands. Command Function 1 Play all messages. 2 Play only new messages.
Appendix Display screen messages Add device failed The Bluetooth device failed to pair to the telephone base. Already saved The telephone number entered is already stored in the directory. Area code will not show in Caller ID log The home area code you saved will not be shown in caller ID log. Bluetooth headset in use. Cellular not available. You are trying to make a cell call while the Bluetooth headset is in use.
Appendix Display screen messages (continued) Connecting... Connection is establishing between the telephone base and the Bluetooth device. Connection failed Unsuccessful connection between a Bluetooth device and the telephone base. Connecting to all handsets... You are trying to start a PTT session to all other handsets. Cell Phone A is added and connected to base. The Bluetooth device is successfully added and connected to the telephone base.
Appendix Display screen messages (continued) Home line in use Another system handset or another telephone on the same home line is in use. Home Transfer from HANDSET X (for models with more than two handsets) One handset is receiving an outside call transferred from another handset. Home Transfer from other handset (for models with two handsets) Home Transfer from HANDSET X to all All handsets are receiving an outside call transferred from another handset.
Appendix Display screen messages (continued) No entries found. Try downloading from SIM only There are no entries found when you download a cell phone directory from the cell memory. No entries found. Try downloading from Phone only There are no entries found when you download a cell phone directory from your SIM card. There are no entries found in either the cell or SIM card when you download a cell phone directory from both memories. No headset found No Bluetooth headset can be found.
Appendix Display screen messages (continued) PTT From HANDSET X To HANDSET Y One handset has started a PTT session to another handset. PTT To HANDSET X You have started the PTT process. Push to talk Ended The PTT session is ended. Put handset on BASE to register Your handset is not registered to the telephone base. Rec mem full The answering system has no recording time left. Rec mem low The answering system has less than 3 minutes to record.
Appendix Handset and telephone base indicators Handset lights On when the handset speakerphone is in use. /CELL /HOME/FLASH CHARGE Flashes quickly when there is an incoming cell call. Flashes slowly when the cell line is on hold. Flashes quickly when there is an incoming home call. Flashes slowly when the home line is on hold. On when the handset is charging in the telephone base or charger. Telephone base lights /ANS ON/OFF On when the answering system is turned on.
Appendix Handset icons Home line - on steadily when the home line is in use or there is an incoming home call. 1 CELL line - on steadily when the cell line is in use or there is an incoming cell call. 2 1 2 1 2 1 2 Bluetooth connected devices - indicates that there are Bluetooth connected devices on the device list. Bluetooth disconnected devices - indicates that there are Bluetooth disconnected devices on the device list.
Appendix Expand your telephone system The handsets provided with your telephone system are already registered. Additional handsets registered to the telephone system are assigned in sequential order. For instance, if you already have HANDSET 1 and HANDSET 2, the new registered handset is assigned HANDSET 3. This telephone system accommodates up to 12 handsets.
Appendix Deregister handsets If you want to replace a handset or reassign the designated handset number of a registered handset, you must deregister all handsets. Then register each handset you wish to use individually. To make deregistration easier, read all of the instructions on this page before you begin. To deregister all handsets: 1. Make sure that all handsets are out of the telephone base and handset chargers before you begin deregistration. 2.
Appendix Troubleshooting If you have difficulty with your telephone, please try the suggestions below. For customer service, visit our website at www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511. In Canada, go to www.vtechcanada.com or call 1 (800) 267-7377. I cannot add my cell phone to the telephone base. • • • • • • • Make sure you have cellular coverage. Make sure your cell phone is compatible with your DS6421. Check the Bluetooth compatibility list at www.vtechphones.com.
Appendix Troubleshooting I cannot put my headset in discoverable mode. • • • • Refer to the user’s manual of your headset for information on how to set your headset to discoverable mode. Make sure that the headset is not connected to any other Bluetooth device in order to successfully pair and connect to the telephone base. Carefully follow the pairing process on page 19. Reset the telephone base. Unplug the unit’s electrical power. Wait for approximately 15 seconds, then plug it back in.
Appendix Troubleshooting The PIN on the telephone base does not work. • • The default PIN is 0000. If you have changed the PIN, it will appear on the handset in the pairing process. I cannot hear any audio on my telephone system when on a cell call. • • Reset the telephone base. Unplug the unit’s electrical power. Wait for approximately 15 seconds, then plug it back in. Turn off your cell phone, then turn it on again. I cannot download contacts from my cell phone to the DS6421.
Appendix Troubleshooting My telephone does not work at all. • • • • • • • • Make sure the battery is installed and charged correctly (page 4). For optimum daily performance, return the handset to the telephone base or charger after use. Make sure the power adapter is securely plugged into an outlet not controlled by a wall switch. Make sure the telephone line cord is plugged firmly into the telephone base and the telephone wall jack. Unplug the electrical power to the telephone base.
Appendix Troubleshooting The display shows No line. I cannot hear the dial tone. • • • Disconnect the telephone line cord from your telephone and connect it to another telephone. If there is no dial tone on that other telephone either, then the telephone line cord may be defective. Try installing a new telephone line cord. If changing telephone line cord does not help, the wall jack (or the wiring to this wall jack) may be defective. Contact your telephone service provider.
Appendix Troubleshooting My handset beeps and is not performing normally. • • • • Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the telephone base. Plug the telephone base into a different working electrical outlet not controlled by a wall switch. Move the handset closer to the telephone base. It may be out of range. Reset the telephone base by unplugging the electrical power to the base. Wait for 15 seconds and plug it back in again.
Appendix Troubleshooting I hear noise on the cordless handset and the keys do not work. • Make sure the telephone line cord is plugged in securely. Registration failed appears on the handset. • • • Only one handset can be registered at a time. If you have multiple handsets to register, please follow the instructions on page 95 for the first handset. Once a handset has been successfully registered, repeat the steps for each handset that needs to be registered.
Appendix Troubleshooting Out of range OR No power at base shows on the handset. • • • • The handset may be out of range. Move it closer to the telephone base. Make sure the power cord is securely plugged into the telephone base. Use a working electrical outlet not controlled by a wall switch. Reset your telephone by unplugging the power adapter from the telephone base. Disconnect the battery from the cordless handset. Wait for 15 seconds, then plug in the power adapter and reinstall the battery.
Appendix Troubleshooting The outgoing announcement is not clear. • • When recording the announcement, make sure you speak in a normal tone of voice towards the microphone of the handset. Make sure there is no background noise when recording. The messages on the answering system are very difficult to hear. • Press /VOL on the side of telephone base or VOL/ / on the handset to increase the speaker volume. The answering system does not record messages. • • • • Make sure the answering system is on.
Appendix Troubleshooting I subscribe to a nontraditional telephone service that uses my computer to establish connections, and my telephone doesn’t work. • • • • • • Make sure your computer is powered on. Make sure your Internet connection is working properly. Make sure that the software is installed and running for your nontraditional telephone service. Make sure to plug your USB telephone adapter into a dedicated USB port on your computer.
Appendix Important safety instructions When using your telephone equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock and injury, including the following: 1. Read and understand all instructions. 2. Follow all warnings and instructions marked on the product. 3. Unplug this product from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners. Use a dry non-abrasive cloth for cleaning. 4.
Appendix Battery • • • • • CAUTION: Use Only Supplied Battery. Do not dispose of the battery in a fire. Check with local waste management codes for special disposal instructions. Do not open or mutilate the battery. Released electrolyte is corrosive and may cause burns or injury to the eyes or skin. The electrolyte may be toxic if swallowed. Exercise care in handling batteries in order not to create a short circuit with conductive materials.
Appendix Remember that electrical appliances can cause serious injury if used when you are wet or standing in water. If the telephone base should fall into water, DO NOT RETRIEVE IT UNTIL YOU UNPLUG THE POWER CORD AND TELEPHONE LINE CORD FROM THE WALL. Then remove the telephone by the unplugged cords. About cordless telephones • Privacy: The same features that make a cordless telephone convenient create some limitations.
Appendix FCC, ACTA and IC regulations FCC Part 15 This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the requirements for a Class B digital device under Part 15 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules. These requirements are intended to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation.
Appendix FCC, ACTA and IC regulations (continued) If this equipment is malfunctioning, it must be unplugged from the modular jack until the problem has been corrected. Repairs to this telephone equipment can only be made by the manufacturer or its authorized agents. For repair procedures, follow the instructions outlined under the Limited warranty. If this equipment is causing harm to the telephone network, the telephone service provider may temporarily discontinue your telephone service.
Appendix California Energy Commission battery charging testing instructions This telephone is set up to comply with the energy-conserving standards right out of the box. These instructions are intended for California Energy Commission (CEC) compliance testing only. When the CEC battery charging testing mode is activated, all telephone functions, except battery charging, will be disabled. To activate the CEC battery charging testing mode: 1. 2. 3.
Appendix For C-UL compliance only Mesures de sécurité importantes Afin de réduire les risques d’incendie, de blessures corporelles ou d’électrocution, suivez toujours ces mesures préventives de base lorsque vous utilisez votre téléphone : 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. Lisez et comprenez bien toutes les instructions. Observez toutes les instructions et mises en garde inscrites sur l’appareil. Débranchez ce téléphone de la prise murale avant de le nettoyer.
Appendix For C-UL compliance only 14. N’utilisez pas le téléphone pour rapporter une fuite de gaz à proximité de la fuite. En certaines circonstances, une flammèche pourrait être provoquée lorsque l’adaptateur est branché à une prise de courant, ou lorsque le combiné est déposé sur le socle. Ceci est un événement commun associé à la fermeture d’un circuit électrique.
Appendix For C-UL compliance only À propos des téléphones sans fil • Alimentation électrique: Les mêmes caractéristiques qui constituent des avantages pour les téléphones sans fil affichent également des restrictions. Les appels téléphoniques sont transmis entre le combiné sans fil et le socle par le biais d’ondes radio ; il y a donc la possibilité que vos conversations téléphoniques sans fil soient interceptées par des équipements de réception radio se trouvant dans la portée du combiné sans fil.
Appendix Limited warranty What does this limited warranty cover? The manufacturer of this VTech Product warrants to the holder of a valid proof of purchase (“Consumer” or “you”) that the Product and all accessories provided in the sales package (“Product”) are free from defects in material and workmanship, pursuant to the following terms and conditions, when installed and used normally and in accordance with the Product operating instructions.
Appendix Limited warranty (continued) How do you get warranty service? To obtain warranty service in the United States of America, please visit our website at www.vtechphones.com or call 1 (800) 595-9511. In Canada, go to www.vtechcanada.com or dial 1 (800) 267-7377. NOTE: Before calling for service, please review the user’s manual - a check of the Product’s controls and features may save you a service call.
Appendix Technical specifications Frequency control Crystal controlled PLL synthesizer Transmit frequency Handset: 1921.536-1928.448 MHz Telephone base: 1921.536-1928.448 MHz Channels 5 Nominal effective range Maximum power allowed by FCC and IC. Actual operating range may vary according to environmental conditions at the time of use. Power requirements Handset: 2.
Index A Conference home and cell calls 46 Connect an active device 21 Create a new directory entry 62 Add a cell phone 17 Add a handset 95 Add a headset 19 Alphabetical search 63 Announcement 75 Answer a cell call 44 Answer a cell call while on a home call 45 Answer a home call 42 Answer a home call while on a cell call 45 Answer an incoming call during a PTT call 60 Answering a PTT call 59 Answering system and voicemail 81 Answering system setup 77 Answer on/off 74 Assign a speed dial slot 66 D B Batt
Index H Handset icons 94 Handset layout 8 Handset lights 93 Handset locator 48 Handset main menu 13 Handset ringer volume 29 Handset speakerphone 47 Hold 48 Hold a call and intercom 55 Home area code 39 O Operating range 108 P Icons 94 Indicators 93 Installation 2, 3, 4, 6, 7 Intercom 53 Interruption to directory download 27 Paging 48 Pair and connect a Bluetooth headset 19 Pair and connect a cell phone 17 Parts checklist 1 Play memos 85 Play messages 83, 84 Play the announcement 75 Predial a home cal
Index S Safety instructions 107 Save a caller ID log entry to the directory 72 Save a redial entry to the directory 52 Search for a contact 63 Set date/time 31 Share an outside call 53 Silence the ringer 47 Skip messages 83, 84 Speakerphone 47 Speed dial 66 Stop messages 83, 84 Swap 44 T Technical specifications 118 Telephone base installation 3 Telephone base lights 93 Telephone base ringer volume 41 Temporary tone dialing 48 Time 31 Transfer a call 49, 55 Transfer a call from a handset to a headset 43
® The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by VTech Holdings Limited is under license. VTech Holdings Limited is a member of Bluetooth SIG, Inc. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners. Designed to fit your home. And your life. VTech Communications, Inc. A member of THE VTECH GROUP OF COMPANIES. VTech is a registered trademark of VTech Holdings Limited. Specifications are subject to change without notice.
