BT8500

[stockdalecarina]

I've just disconnected the base unit for a couple of minutes and then re connected it. It's not made any difference.

Does the make of batteries make a difference. So long as I put in the same size does it matter. Are all AAA batteries the same.

[Keith_Beddoe]

---

@stockdalecarina wrote:

I've just disconnected the base unit for a couple of minutes and then re connected it. It's not made any difference.

Does the make of batteries make a difference. So long as I put in the same size does it matter. Are all AAA batteries the same.

---

The batteries will not cause this fault, which I assume is affecting all handsets, it that correct?

[stockdalecarina]

yes it has. I think I might have a couple of spare handsets somewhere. I'll try and find them and see if it still the same 

[Keith_Beddoe]

---

@stockdalecarina wrote:

yes it has. I think I might have a couple of spare handsets somewhere. I'll try and find them and see if it still the same 

---

You will need to try that first. If they do the same, then you need to report the fault to BT.

A faulty line card port in the exchange can cause this, and its quite straightforward for an Openreach exchange technician to move you line to a different piece of equipment.

The exchange equipment is quite old, and does cause faults like this.

[stockdalecarina]

what's the updated and most recent model that replaced the BT8500 and has 4 handsets

[Keith_Beddoe]

---

@stockdalecarina wrote:

what's the updated and most recent model that replaced the BT8500 and has 4 handsets

---

The BT4600 quad handsets. This also has larger buttons,

I would prove whether it is your existing handsets that are faulty, before buying any more. As I have said, an exchange fault is possible,

[stockdalecarina]

Thank you

[stockdalecarina]

I've now established that the problem is the base unit.  As I have several spare BT8500 handsets as well as the 4 currently in use,, I've decided to get a new BT8500 base unit. Found 2 on E Bay that look in good condition and had little use, so bought them..

So my next questions are

 1) How do I set up the new base unit and register it?  It won't be as simple as unplugging one and connecting the other.

2) Will the stored numbers on the existing handsets stay and still be there when I put them on the new base.  Do I need to  make a paper list of names and numbers and then re input them.