Cordless Phone
Earning the ENERGY STAR means a product meets strict energy
efficiency guidelines set by the US Environmental Protection Agency and
the Department of Energy.
Cordless phones, answering machines, and combination units that have earned
the ENERGY STAR perform much more efficiently than conventional units and
use about one-third of the energy.
These products use less energy by incorporating improved energy
performance features such as switch-mode power supplies and “smart” chargers.
Important operating and convenience features
In addition to energy performance, there are many other
important operating and convenience features to consider when shopping
for cordless phones
and cordless phone/answering machine combination units.
Analog vs. Digital
Analog phones are the most common type of cordless phone. They
rely on conventional radio waves that are modulated to carry sound to
and from the handset. Digital phones transmit sound in two values--zeros
and ones (digits) and offer increased security and reduced interference
with the same or better range.
Concerned about security? Then choose DSS (digital spread spectrum) technology.
It spreads the phone’s digital information in pieces over several frequencies,
making it the almost impossible for others to listen in.
Frequency
Currently, cordless phones are available at three frequencies:
900 MHz, 2.4 GHz, and 5.8 GHz. The advantages are noted below.
900 MHz. Often the lowest priced phone
2.4 GHz. Offers enhanced security
5.8 GHz. Offers reduced interference
What about dual-band phones? These simply use one band to transmit
between base and handset and another band to receive calls. They do not
switch between bands.
Dual/Multi-Handset Capable
If you are limited in the number of phone-jacks that you can
have, or do not wish to install multiple jacks throughout your home,
a dual or multi handset capable phone may be the choice for you. These
phones incorporate a main base unit that plugs into a phone-jack and
an electrical outlet, and can support anywhere from one to eight additional
handsets. Only an electrical outlet is needed for the additional handsets
and their charging cradles.
Tip: It’s always best to have at least one traditional, corded telephone
in your household as a back up. Often, cordless telephones don’t work during
blackouts because they rely on household electrical current. A corded telephone
is not usually prone to this problem.
Refrigerator
