Ideal for people who like the reliability of a corded phone and the flexibility of a cordless handset, the remanufactured Panasonic KX-TGA2970B combines the best of both worlds. The expandable system, which can accommodate up to three cordless handsets, is centered around a base unit with a traditional corded receiver. Home-based business owners can locate the base unit at their desk, while homeowners can simply place it in the most convenient room (such as the kitchen). In addition, the phone comes with a single charging cradle and cordless handset, which work through the same phone line and jack. The cordless handset lets users wander around the home or office without dealing with crisscrossing wires or multiple phone jacks, and each additional handset purchase further boosts the system's flexibility.

When combined with other cordless handsets, the phone system offers a variety of complementary features, such as a home-wide intercom--perfect for calling the family together for dinner--a privacy mode that blocks other handsets from joining the conversation, and up to five-way call conferencing with outside lines and multiple handsets.

To ensure a nearly interference-free connection, the system employs 2.4 GHz frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS) technology, which eliminates the hiss and fuzziness suffered by most analog signals. Reception is further improved by Panasonic's Voice Enhancer circuitry, which helps clarify and improve reception by producing an easy-to-hear, natural-sounding voice, making the handsets sound crisp and intelligible even at a distance from the base. In addition, users needn't worry about cross-talk or eavesdropping through the handsets, as the FHSS system randomly changes frequencies several times per second to ensure an exclusive signal.

Adding to the security theme is the unique SecurityLink Plus function. Unique among many phone systems, the KX-TGA2970B can actually control an ADT Safewatch 3000 Pro security system through either the handset or base. This means that homeowners can set the alarm system while in bed, or turn off a false alarm without trudging downstairs to the wall keypad. Alternately, they can deactivate the smoke alarm from the kitchen phone after accidentally burning microwave popcorn.

Thanks to the phone's call waiting/caller ID compatibility--which requires a subscription to a fee-based phone company service--and caller ID memory, you'll know the name and number of the last 50 callers, even if you're currently talking to someone else. The included handset's four-line, multifunction LCD, meanwhile, lets you see all caller ID information without scrolling, while the backlighting aids visibility in low-light situations. Another nice bonus stems from the 50-number speed dial, which lets you stay in quick contact with your favorite friends, family members, or pizza joints. The speed dial directory can be shared among all the handsets in the system.

The all-digital answering machine, meanwhile, offers a 15-minute maximum recording time and can be operated remotely, allowing you to stay on top of your incoming messages even while you're away from home. An LCD call counter lets you know how many messages you have waiting, and a time/date stamp tells you when each message was received. Additionally, all messages are stored in flash memory, so if you ever experience a power outage, your messages will be there when you get back up and running.

Finally, the KX-TGA2970B offers both handset and base speakerphones and is headset compatible (sold separately) to ensure several hands-free communication methods. Other features include a page function that helps find misplaced handsets, an illuminated keypad for dialing in the dark, and six personalized ring tones. The phone is backed by a 90-day warranty.

What's in the Box
Base unit with corded handset, cordless handset, charging cradle, AC adapter, telephone line cord, belt clip, warranty card, user's manual.