Casio Phonemate TC920BK 900 MHz Phone and Answering Machine

Description

The TC-920B combines a phone--with clear 900 MHz transmission--and an answering machine so that you don't waste valuable space with two separate pieces of equipment. Casio locates selected function keys in the handset cradle, an unexpected space-saving advantage for your busy home or office. This unit even monitors your phone line to prevent accidental interruptions of modem or fax transmissions.

The TC-920B's advanced message management lets you play, save, skip, erase, repeat, or file messages with simple commands from the base or handset. You can listen to all messages or only new messages and you can hear them through the speakerphone or, for added privacy, the handset. You can save important messages in a special file for as long as you like.

An array of features adds to the TC-920B's utility. The modem-monitor light warns if your line is busy with fax transmissions or online activity and prevents unwanted interruptions. You can also record and store two greetings and choose which one you want callers to hear. The memory holds up to 10 numbers for speed dialing; you can place callers on hold, take call-waiting calls, or pick up calls on any extension. The TC-920B also offers complete remote operation, with voice menu prompts, from outside the home of office.

We tested the TC-920B's cordless operation in an area obstructed with walls and electronic equipment. The sound quality and signal clarity were fine up to a distance of about 50 feet; at that point, the signal quickly faded, even after switching channels. Though the manufacturer doesn't rate the TC-920B's talk time, it tested at three hours after four days of standby. It's possible that this phone may offer additional capacity for talk time.

Setup and programming of the answering machine, guided by voice prompts, was quick and easy. The answering machine's sound quality is good, though it's not as clear as some stand-alone digital machines. We recorded a combination of messages and greetings; the memory successfully stored 20 minutes of recorded material. The manufacturer doesn't list a maximum message length, but we were able to record a three-minute test message.

Overall, we think the TC-920B is versatile for home or business use, but the limited range may not suit users with more demanding expectations of a 900 MHz cordless phone.

Pros:

• Space-saving design
• Complete message management with handset commands
• Built-in speakerphone for call screening

Cons:

• Shorter operating range than some 900 MHz cordless phones