Cordless phones are so convenient. You can take them anywhere in the house or outside as long it is within their range. The only downside is that they cannot be used if there is a power failure, so remember to keep an ordinary one to plug in.
The two types of cordless phone available are DSS (digital spread spectrum) and DECT (digital enhanced cordless telecommunications). The frequency band used by the latter is exclusive, so there is no interference. Sound quality for the former is considered superior, and the range is better, but it may also interfere with other wireless applications.
REN (ringer equivalent number) is an important factor to consider when purchasing your cordless. Each appliance uses a certain number of REN, but the amount of REN available on most phone lines is 3. If you have other appliances (such as a fax machine) plugged into your phone line, they will use some of the REN and there may not be enough left to allow your cordless to work properly.
To find out, look for the REN number on the bottom of your appliances and add them. If the total is less than 3 then it’s okay. A digital cordless phone, especially a DECT is the more secure if you use your credit card a lot over the phone.
