At liGo, we are often contacted by people looking to buy a cordless phone with 'the best range' to replace a model they are unhappy with. There is a degree of truth in the maxim that you get what you pay for. More expensive phones typically make better use of their output power for a stronger signal. In general, though, most DECT phones will provide roughly the same range (roughly 50 meters indoors, 300 meters outdoors). So, opting for the most expensive model is not necessarily the answer.
If you’re happy with your phone in all other respects (sound quality, usability, etc) but are struggling to get reception in certain areas, there could be any number of reasons. These include thick impermeable walls. modern insulation blocking the radio signals. or simply need coverage over a larger area. Thankfully, though, there is likely to be a solution that doesn't involve buying a brand new set of phones- and it could help you get up to double the range!
1. Position Your Base Carefully
To get the most out of your cordless phone, it is worth considering the position of your base. The signal from the base (the unit plugged into your phone line) is transmitted in all directions. If you have your phone placed near an exterior wall, you could be losing up to half of your coverage. Instead, it is best to position the base in the most central location possible. Try to keep your base clear of thick walls, since these can affect signal strength. You should also place it away from devices like TVs and laptops. These can emit radio signals which will interfere with the DECT connection, and stop you from getting a clear signal.
2. Standard DECT Repeater
If your problem goes further than that, and you're still experiencing deadspots when the base of your phone is as central as can be, then your next port of call should be a DECT repeater. Our recommendation is our very own liGo Repeater, as it offers reliable performance and represents the best value for money, and we've even written our very own guide for easier registration with Gigaset phones.
Once registered, a repeater needs to be plugged into a power socket as far away from your phone’s base station as possible. However, it must still be within the radius of its signal. It extends the range by receiving the signal transmitted by your phone’s base and regenerating it to the original strength. It then ‘repeats’ the signal for a boost capable of doubling your standard range. It’s possible to have up to six repeaters registered to one base station. However, they all need to be within the radius of the base signal- you can’t register one repeater to another. In our experience any more than three would be superfluous. If you have tried to gain the coverage you need with two or three repeaters without any success then you would be better served by either of the following two options.
(Most modern DECT phones are repeater compatible; however some are not. If you are in any doubt, double check with the manufacturer, or our helpful Customer Service staff.)
3. The RTX Pro-Link Repeater
This works like a standard repeater in principle but unlike the previous models, the RTX Pro-Link Plus are capable of registering to one another, for a daisy chain of up to 3 repeaters. It requires a PC tool, and can work out to be quite costly if 3 are needed. However, it is highly effective. With up to triple the range of a standard base station, it is ideal for larger properties.
For further advice on how best to improve the range of your cordless phones, contact our highly trained and knowledgeable Customer Services team, who will be more than happy to help!