Panasonic Kx Tg5438 Operating Instructions Manual

							This unit is compatible with Caller ID. To use this feature, you must 
subscribe to the appropriate service offered by your service provider.
Please read these Operating Instructions before using the unit and save 
for future reference.
For assistance, visit our website: http://www.panasonic.com for 
customers in the U.S.A. or Puerto Rico.
Charge the battery for 6 hours before initial use.
5.8 GHz Digital Cordless Answering System
Model No. 
KX-TG5438
Operating Instructions
5.8 GHz Digital Cordless Answering System 
 with Dual Handsets
Model No. 
KX-TG5439Model shown is KX-TG5438.
TG5438_5439.book  Page 1  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Table of Contents
2For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).
Introduction
Your phone  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Accessory information  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Important safety instructions  . . . . . . . . . 6
For best performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Preparation
Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Battery installation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Battery charge  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Battery replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Controls and displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Controls   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Setting the date and time . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Making/Answering Calls
Making calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Answering calls  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Useful features during a call . . . . . . . . . 19
Voice changer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
HOLD button  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
MUTE button  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Voice enhancer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Clarity booster  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Call share (KX-TG5439 only)   . . . . . 20
PAUSE button (for PBX/long distance 
service users). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Flash button   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
For Call Waiting service users . . . . . 21
Temporary tone dialing (for rotary/pulse 
service users)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Phonebook
Using the phonebook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Adding items to the phonebook   . . . 22
Calling someone in the phonebook . 23
Editing items in the phonebook  . . . . 23
Erasing items in the phonebook  . . . 23
Chain dial feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Copying phonebook items (KX-TG5439 
only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Copying an item   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Copying all items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Caller ID Service
Using Caller ID service . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Ringer ID and light-up ID   . . . . . . . . 26Caller list . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Viewing the caller list and calling 
back . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Editing a caller’s phone number before 
calling back  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Storing caller information into the 
phonebook   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Erasing caller information. . . . . . . . . 29
Intercom Features
Intercom  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
For KX-TG5438 users  . . . . . . . . . . . 30
For KX-TG5439 users  . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Transferring a call (KX-TG5439 only) . . 32
Conference calls (KX-TG5439 only) . . . 32
Programmable Settings
Guide to handset programming  . . . . . . 33
Ringer settings  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Handset ringer volume   . . . . . . . . . . 34
Handset ringer tone . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Handset interrupt tone . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Call options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Auto talk   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Voice changer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Voice enhancer  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Caller ID edit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Display options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Handset LCD contrast  . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Display language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Telephone settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Dialing mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Flash time  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Line mode  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Other options  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Handset key tone   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Re-registering the handset   . . . . . . . 39
Time adjustment (Caller ID subscribers 
only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Customer support  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Programming via direct commands  . . . 41
Direct commands chart  . . . . . . . . . . 41
Answering System 
Features
Answering system  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Recording your greeting message  . . . . 43
Erasing your greeting message   . . . 44
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							Table of Contents
For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).3
Pre-recorded greeting message  . . . 44
Turning the answering system on/off . . 44
Screening your calls  . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Listening to messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Listening to messages using the base 
unit   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Listening to messages using the 
handset  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Memory capacity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Remote operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Using the answering system 
remotely   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Answering system settings . . . . . . . . . . 49
Remote code   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Ring count  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Caller’s recording time . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Message alert  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Useful Information
Wall mounting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Base unit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Charger unit (KX-TG5439 only) . . . . 54
Belt clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Headset (optional)  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Error messages  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
General use   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Programmable settings  . . . . . . . . . . 57
Making/answering calls, Intercom  . . 58
Phonebook   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Caller ID   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Answering system  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Battery charge   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Power failure  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Important information about subscription 
services  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
FCC and other information . . . . . . . . . . 63
openLCR service for the Caller IQ 
feature  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Technical information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Base unit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Handset   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Charger unit (KX-TG5439 only) . . . . 66
Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Customer services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Index
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
TG5438_5439.book  Page 3  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Introduction
4For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).
Thank you for purchasing a Panasonic cordless telephone.
We recommend keeping a record of the following information for future reference.
Attach your purchase receipt here.
Trademarks:
openLCR, openLCR.com, and the openLCR logo are the trademarks of openLCR.com, 
Inc.
Your phone
LReferences in these operating instructions to the “charger” and to the “other handset” 
are for KX-TG5439 users only. Serial No. Date of purchase
(found on the bottom of the unit)
Name and address of dealer
Energy Star:
As an 
ENERGY STA R® Participant, Panasonic has determined 
that this product meets the 
ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy 
efficiency. 
ENERGY STAR is a U.S. registered mark.
KX-TG5438 KX-TG5439
TG5438_5439.book  Page 4  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Introduction
For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).5
Accessory information
Included accessories
To order replacement accessories, call 1-800-332-5368.
TTY users (hearing or speech impaired users) can call 1-866-605-1277.
Additional/replacement accessories
No.Accessory 
itemsOrder numberQuantity
KX-TG5438FKX-TG5438SKX-TG5439S
1AC adaptor for 
base unitPQLV1Z 1 1 1
2Telephone line 
cordPQJA10075Z 1 1 1
3Wall mounting 
adaptorPQKL10057Z1 1 1 1
4Battery HHR-P104 1 1 2
5Handset cover PQKK10584Z2 1 – –
PQKK10584Z3 – 1 2
6Belt clip PQKE10389Z1 1 1 2
7Charger PQLV30031ZB – – 1
AC adaptor for 
chargerKX-TCA1-G––1
1234
567
Accessory itemsOrder number
Rechargeable nickel metal 
hydride (Ni-MH) batteryHHR-P104
Headset KX-TCA60, KX-TCA86, KX-TCA88, KX-TCA88HA, 
KX-TCA91, KX-TCA92, or KX-TCA98
Battery back-up power supply KX-TCA200
TG5438_5439.book  Page 5  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Introduction
6For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).
Important safety 
instructions
When using this unit, basic safety 
precautions should always be followed to 
reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, or 
personal injury.
1. Read and understand all instructions.
2. Follow all warnings and instructions 
marked on this unit.
3. Unplug this unit from power outlets 
before cleaning. Do not use liquid or 
aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for 
cleaning.
4. Do not use this unit near water, for 
example near a bathtub, wash bowl, 
kitchen sink, etc.
5. Place the unit securely on a stable 
surface. Serious damage and/or injury 
may result if the unit falls.
6. Do not cover slots and openings on the 
unit. They are provided for ventilation 
and protection against overheating. 
Never place the unit near radiators, or 
in a place where proper ventilation is 
not provided.
7. Use only the power source marked on 
the unit. If you are not sure of the type 
of power supplied to your home, 
consult your dealer or local power 
company.
8. Do not place objects on the power 
cord. Install the unit where no one can 
step or trip on the cord.
9. Do not overload power outlets and 
extension cords. This can result in the 
risk of fire or electric shock.
10. Never push any objects through slots 
in this unit. This may result in the risk of 
fire or electric shock. Never spill any 
liquid on the unit.
11. To reduce the risk of electric shock, do 
not disassemble this unit. Take the unit 
to an authorized service center when 
service is required. Opening or 
removing covers may expose you to 
dangerous voltages or other risks. Incorrect reassembly can cause 
electric shock when the unit is 
subsequently used.
12. Unplug this unit from power outlets and 
refer servicing to an authorized service 
center when the following conditions 
occur:
A. When the power cord is damaged 
or frayed.
B. If liquid has been spilled into the 
unit.
C. If the unit has been exposed to rain 
or water.
D. If the unit does not work normally 
by following the operating 
instructions. Adjust only controls 
covered by the operating 
instructions. Improper adjustment 
may require extensive work by an 
authorized service center.
E. If the unit has been dropped or 
physically damaged.
F. If the unit exhibits a distinct change 
in performance.
13. During thunderstorms, avoid using 
telephones except cordless types. 
There may be a remote risk of an 
electric shock from lightning.
14. Do not use this unit to report a gas 
leak, when in the vicinity of the leak.
SAVE THESE 
INSTRUCTIONS
CAUTION:
Installation
LNever install telephone wiring during a 
lightning storm.
LNever install telephone jacks in wet 
locations unless the jack is specifically 
designed for wet locations.
LNever touch uninsulated telephone 
wires or terminals unless the telephone 
line has been disconnected at the 
network interface.
LUse caution when installing or modifying 
telephone lines.
TG5438_5439.book  Page 6  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Introduction
For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).7
LDo not touch the plug with wet hands.
LThe AC adaptor is used as the main 
disconnect device. Ensure that the AC 
outlet is installed near the unit and is 
easily accessible.
Battery
To reduce the risk of fire or injury to 
persons, read and follow these 
instructions.
LUse only the battery(ies) specified.
LDo not dispose of the battery(ies) in a 
fire. They may explode. Check with local 
waste management codes for special 
disposal instructions.
LDo not open or mutilate the battery(ies). 
Released electrolyte is corrosive and 
may cause burns or injury to the eyes or 
skin. The electrolyte may be toxic if 
swallowed.
LExercise care when handling the 
battery(ies). Do not allow conductive 
materials such as rings, bracelets or 
keys to touch the battery(ies), otherwise 
a short circuit may cause the battery(ies) 
and/or the conductive material to 
overheat and cause burns.
LCharge the battery(ies) provided with or 
identified for use with this product only in 
accordance with the instructions and 
limitations specified in this manual.
WARNING:
LTo prevent the risk of fire or electrical 
shock, do not expose this product to rain 
or any type of moisture.
Medical
LConsult the manufacturer of any 
personal medical devices, such as 
pacemakers or hearing aids, to 
determine if they are adequately 
shielded from external RF (radio 
frequency) energy. (The unit operates in 
the frequency range of 5.76 GHz to 5.84 
GHz, and the power output level can 
range from 0.25 to 0.5 watts.) Do not use the unit in health care facilities if any 
regulations posted in the area instruct 
you not to do so. Hospitals or health care 
facilities may be using equipment that 
could be sensitive to external RF (radio 
frequency) energy.
Splash-resistant (handset only)
The handset is designed to be splash-
resistant.
You can use the handset with wet hands.
LDo not immerse in water or leave under 
running water.
LKeep the handset away from salt water.
LAvoid exposure to prolonged high 
humidity.
LSince water in headset jack may cause 
damage, close the headset jack cover 
when the optional headset is not in use. 
When the optional headset is 
connected, do not use the handset with 
wet hands.
LIf the handset is wet, wipe with a soft dry 
cloth.
LThe base unit is not designed to be 
splash resistant. Do not place the 
handset on the base unit if the handset 
is wet.
Shock-resistant (handset only)
The handset is designed to be shock-
resistant, however, it should not be thrown 
or stepped on.
TG5438_5439.book  Page 7  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Introduction
8For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).
For best performance
Base unit location/noise
The base unit and handset use radio 
waves to communicate with each other.
For maximum distance and noise-free 
operation, we recommend the following:
LPlacing the unit away from electrical 
appliances such as a TV, personal 
computer or another cordless phone.
LPlacing the base unit in a HIGH and 
CENTRAL location with no obstructions 
such as walls.
LRaising the antennas vertically.
LIf you use the handset near a microwave 
oven which is being used, noise may be 
heard. Move away from the microwave 
oven and closer to the base unit.
LIf you use the handset near another 
cordless phone’s base unit, noise may 
be heard. Move away from the other 
cordless phone’s base unit and closer to 
your base unit.
Environment
LKeep the unit away from electrical noise 
generating devices, such as fluorescent 
lamps and motors.
LThe unit should be kept free from 
excessive smoke, dust, high 
temperature and vibration.
LThe unit should not be exposed to direct 
sunlight.
LDo not place heavy objects on top of the 
unit.
LWhen you leave the unit unused for a 
long period of time, unplug this unit from 
power outlet.
LThe unit should be kept away from heat 
sources such as heaters, kitchen stoves, 
etc. It should not be placed in rooms 
where the temperature is less than 5 °C 
(41 °F) or greater than 40 °C (104 °F). 
Damp basements should also be 
avoided.LThe maximum calling distance may be 
shortened when the unit is used in the 
following places: Near obstacles such as 
hills, tunnels, undergrounds, near metal 
objects such as wire fences, etc.
LOperating near 5.8 GHz electrical 
appliances may cause interference. 
Move away from the electrical 
appliances.
Routine care
LWipe the outer surface of the unit with a 
soft cloth. Do not use benzine, thinner or 
any abrasive powder.
TG5438_5439.book  Page 8  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Preparation
For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).9
Connections
Base unit
Charger unit (KX-TG5439 only)
Note:
LBase unit: Use only the included Panasonic AC adaptor PQLV1.
LCharger unit: Use only the included Panasonic AC adaptor KX-TCA1.
LThe AC adaptor must remain connected at all times. (It is normal for the adaptor to feel 
warm during use.)
LThe AC adaptor should be connected to a vertically oriented or floor-mounted AC outlet. 
Do not connect the AC adaptor to a ceiling-mounted AC outlet, as the weight of the 
adaptor may cause it to become disconnected.
LThe unit will not work during a power failure. We recommend connecting a standard 
telephone to the same telephone line or to the same telephone jack using the Panasonic 
KX-J66 T-adaptor. Emergency power can be supplied to the unit by connecting a 
Panasonic battery back-up power supply noted on page 5.
Fasten the AC adaptor cord.
Hook
AC adaptor
Raise the antennas.
Telephone line cordTo single-line telephone jack (RJ11C)
To power outlet (120 V AC, 60 Hz)
AC adaptor To power outlet (120 V AC, 60 Hz)
TG5438_5439.book  Page 9  Tuesday, January 11, 2005  4:46 PM 
						

							Preparation
10For assistance, please call 1-800-211-PANA (7262).
If you subscribe to an xDSL service
LPlease attach a noise filter (contact your 
xDSL provider) to the telephone line 
between the base unit and the telephone 
line jack in the event of the following:
– Noise is heard during conversations.
– Caller ID features (page 26) do not 
function properly.Battery installation
1Release the battery cover latch and 
slide the cover open.
2Insert the battery (1), and press it 
down until it snaps into the 
compartment (2).
3Close the handset cover.
4Fasten the battery cover latch.
Telephone  
line cordNoise filter  
(For xDSL users)
To single-line telephone 
jack (RJ11C)
12
1
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