Grandstream HT286 maximum handsets

[victor1242]

Is there a limit to the number of handsets that can be connected to this adapter. In other words can a current Bell user disconnect his Bell line and connect the line to this adapter without it burning out. Consider a household having 5 hardwired handsets.

[Jake]

The only restriction would be the REN number. Each phone should have a REN number on it and that shouldn't go over the REN output of the ATA. You might have to look up the specs for the ATA to find the REN number, but I would guess at around 5. Years ago I used to assume a REN of 1 for each phone, even if it was under 1 as a guide. Don't forget things like PVR boxes if they are connected.

The problem comes when the ATA has to make all the phones ring when a call comes in. If the unit can't power all the ringers then some may not ring, and it also might damage the unit. Modern phones are much better, especially the base station type as one phone basically turns into many. I will stick my neck out and say you should probably be OK, but I would check the REN numbers if you can, or better yet get a base station walkabout set.

Unless the wiring in your house is massively long, you will be find by disconnecting the incoming Bell pair and hooking up the house to the output of the ATA. Many have done this, but it will of course depend on how your house is wired. Don't forget if you have DSL you will still need the incoming pair going to a jack where your modem is, so you may have to fiddle with the wires a bit. If you have cable, then this is obviously a moot point.

[seagame2001]

Is there a limit to the number of handsets that can be connected to this adapter. In other words can a current Bell user disconnect his Bell line and connect the line to this adapter without it burning out. Consider a household having 5 hardwired handsets.

go outside and open Bell box and disconnect the outside connected to your house

then you will be all right