Panasonic KX-TG8561E Instruction Manual

The Panasonic KX-TG8561E is a DECT 6.0 cordless phone system with one base unit and up to six handsets, featuring digital answering machine, call blocking, intercom, speakerphone, backlit keypad, and ECO mode for reduced power consumption. It includes features like caller ID, call waiting, phonebook directory, and headset jack. Powered by AC adapter and rechargeable batteries. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Using the Answering Machine 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Base Unit, Handset(s), AC Power Adapter, Telephone Line Cord, Rechargeable Batteries, Belt Clip, User Manual.

FeatureDescription
DECT 6.0 TechnologyClear sound, secure connection, interference-free operation
Digital Answering MachineRecords up to 18 minutes of messages; remote access
Call BlockBlocks up to 250 numbers
IntercomHandset-to-handset and handset-to-base communication
SpeakerphoneHands-free conversation on handset and base
Backlit Keypad & DisplayEasy viewing in low light
ECO ModeReduces power consumption when idle
Phonebook DirectoryStores up to 100 entries per handset
Headset JackFor hands-free headset use (2.5mm)
Caller ID/Call WaitingDisplays caller information on screen

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place base unit on stable surface away from electronic interference.

  1. Charge handset batteries: Insert batteries into handset, place on base charger for 7 hours.
  2. Connect telephone line: Plug line cord into base TEL LINE jack and wall jack.
  3. Connect power: Plug AC adapter into base DC IN 9V jack and wall outlet.
  4. Register additional handsets: Follow manual pairing procedure if adding handsets.

WARNING! Use only supplied Panasonic adapter and batteries. Do not expose to water or extreme temperatures.

First-Time Setup

Power on base and handset; follow prompts.

  1. Set date and time: Press MENU, select SETTINGS, set date/time manually or via caller ID.
  2. Set language: In SETTINGS menu, select ENGLISH (default).
  3. Program phonebook: Add entries via MENU > PHONEBOOK.
  4. Set answering machine: Record outgoing message and set number of rings.

CAUTION! Ensure proper ventilation around base unit; do not cover during use.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via MENU button on handset. Handset Controls: TALK/FLASH, OFF, VOLUME, MENU, INTERCOM, PHONEBOOK, REDIAL, MUTE, Speakerphone.

Base Unit: PAGE, INTERCOM, VOLUME, DELETE, PLAY/STOP (answering machine).

Settings: Date/Time, Language, Ringer Volume/Tone, ECO Mode On/Off, Keypad Tone. Phonebook: Add, Edit, Delete entries. Call Block: Add numbers to block list. Answering Machine: Record outgoing message, set rings (2/4/Toll Saver), play messages.

Connecting Devices

Telephone Line: Standard RJ11 cord. Headset: 2.5mm jack on handset.

  1. Turn off power before connecting.
  2. Plug telephone line cord firmly into base and wall jack.
  3. For headset, plug into handset jack during calls.
  4. Additional handsets register via base unit menu.

Tip: Use surge protector for telephone line to prevent damage from power surges.

Using the Answering Machine

Digital answering machine with remote access.

  1. Record outgoing message: Press MENU > ANSWERING MACHINE > RECORD OGM.
  2. Set number of rings: Choose 2, 4, or Toll Saver.
  3. Play messages: Press PLAY/STOP on base or handset.
  4. Remote access: Dial your number, after OGM press * during playback and enter remote code (default 0000).
  5. Delete messages: Press DELETE during playback.

WARNING! Do not disconnect power while recording or playing messages to avoid data loss.

Advanced Features

Call Block: Add numbers via CALL BLOCK menu; blocked calls go directly to answering machine. Intercom: Press INTERCOM on one handset, then dial handset number (1-6) to call. Speakerphone: Press SPEAKERPHONE during call for hands-free. ECO Mode: Reduces power when handset is near base; enable in SETTINGS.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug power before cleaning. Wipe with dry, soft cloth. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Avoid contact with water; keep away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. IC: Complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Copyright © Panasonic Corporation. For support, visit www.panasonic.com/support or contact 1-800-211-7262.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No dial toneLine/power connectionCheck telephone line and power connections; ensure base is on.
Handset not chargingBattery/contactsClean charging contacts; ensure handset placed correctly; replace battery if old.
Poor sound qualityInterference/low batteryMove away from electronics; recharge handset; use ECO mode.
Answering machine not recordingMemory full/settingsDelete old messages; check OGM is recorded; ensure machine is on.
Handset not registeringDistance/procedurePlace handset near base; follow registration steps in manual.

Reset: Press and hold # on handset while placing on charger for 10 seconds to reset handset.

Service: 1-800-211-7262; www.panasonic.com/support

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