Classic Rotary Phones Forum

Telephone Switching => Key Systems (Electronic, 1A2 etc) => Panasonic (PBX) Key Systems => Topic started by: AL_as_needed on May 03, 2016, 02:46:39 PM

Title: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 03, 2016, 02:46:39 PM
It seems that my phones a breeding!

I started with a black 500, then picked up a wall set, turn around a few days later and there is a red 500, butt-set, 2500, and the stepchild, a PTT type 51....(every family has a black sheep ;)). What is the best way to wire them all up for use? So far I have a few splitters running into my XLink, but that is starting to become a tangled mess.

Any suggestions?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: andre_janew on May 03, 2016, 05:53:05 PM
Don't try to hook up all your phones all at once.  You can always change your phones every week or every day if you want.  There are forum members who have more phones than you.  I doubt that they have all their phones hooked up at any one time.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Jack Ryan on May 03, 2016, 06:56:57 PM
Try a Panasonic (or other) PBX that works with pulse dialling. With your phones connected as extensions you can ring between your phones. Connect the XLink to a CO line and you can dial out.

While you use that you can contemplate the next step. Perhaps an asterisk solution, CNET, an electro-mechanical exchange...

There are a few options...

Jack
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 03, 2016, 07:00:44 PM
Quote from: AL_as_needed on May 03, 2016, 02:46:39 PM
What is the best way to wire them all up for use? So far I have a few splitters running into my XLink, but that is starting to become a tangled mess.

Any suggestions?

More than a few ways and it depends on what you want to do. The most popular (and easy to install and use) is the Panasonic 616. The forum has a board with many topic discussing that PBX, it use, installation, type of phones, programming and other stuff. That board is at

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?board=62.0

They can be found for under $100 on eBay and I think most members who have a lot of phones have one, some using it only for testing phones, others for wiring a house full of phones.

Look through those topics and post questions here so others who have done what you want to do can help you.


Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 05, 2016, 12:42:15 AM
Is this the model number I want for a panasonic 616 panasonic kx-t61610?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 05, 2016, 07:33:58 AM
Quote from: oldguy on May 05, 2016, 12:42:15 AM
Is this the modle number I want for a panasonic 616 panasonic kx-t61610?

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=13613.0

They also made the -2 and -3 versions which had improvements and slightly different programming codes, IIRC.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 05, 2016, 07:32:24 PM
I haven't seen any -2 or -3 units on eBay yet. people seem to want around $125 + $25-$30 shipping for a 616. I take it I don't want a hybrid or digital unit for dial phone? You can tell I've been looking on eBay. What about a 308? It sounded silly when I said it to my self (I would only be able to hook up 8 of my phones at a time) How many can I use at once? I missed out on a working 616 yesterday for $20 BIN + $30 shipping but I didn't know what I was looking for then. Now I kind of understand. Maybe I will just keep looking until I find another deal. Any other brands that would be good & easy to hook up?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 05, 2016, 08:07:18 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 05, 2016, 07:32:24 PM
I haven't seen any -2 or -3 units on eBay yet. people seem to want around $125 + $25-$30 shipping for a 616. I take it I don't want a hybrid or digital unit for dial phone? You can tell I've been looking on eBay. What about a 308? It sounded silly when I said it to my self (I would only be able to hook up 8 of my phones at a time) How many can I use at once? I missed out on a working 616 yesterday for $20 BIN + $30 shipping but I didn't know what I was looking for then. Now I kind of understand. Maybe I will just keep looking until I find another deal. Any other brands that would be good & easy to hook up?

Most of the KX-T61610 units on eBay are in fact version 2 and version 3 units, by my observations.  They are designated with the 2 or 3 in a circle on the product designation label.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 05, 2016, 08:20:19 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 05, 2016, 07:32:24 PM
I haven't seen any -2 or -3 units on eBay yet. people seem to want around $125 + $25-$30 shipping for a 616. I take it I don't want a hybrid or digital unit for dial phone? You can tell I've been looking on eBay. What about a 308? It sounded silly when I said it to my self (I would only be able to hook up 8 of my phones at a time) How many can I use at once? I missed out on a working 616 yesterday for $20 BIN + $30 shipping but I didn't know what I was looking for then. Now I kind of understand. Maybe I will just keep looking until I find another deal. Any other brands that would be good & easy to hook up?

You can find any of the KX-T61610 or KX-T30810s  for around $20 ea, if you're a little patient.  I have four units total (2 x 308, 2 x 616, of version 2 and 3 ea.) and I am averaging just over $50 for each, including shipping.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 04:33:56 PM
Thanks Teleplay & unbeldi. are you able to connect the units together or do you have groups of phone connected to the different units?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 06, 2016, 04:52:47 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 04:33:56 PM
Thanks Teleplay & unbeldi. are you able to connect the units together or do you have groups of phone connected to the different units?
They just make nice and cheap source of dial tone for a group of phones. This way you don't have to run a dozen pairs to some location, just a single one, if an interconnect is needed at all.

And one of them  I fitted with a variable frequency ring generator, to ring phones with frequency ringers.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 06, 2016, 06:48:32 PM
Sounds like part of the beauty of the hobby, buy lots of phones and fill every wall Jack. Buy a PBX to take the extra load, thus enabling you to buy more phones.... :)
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 07:28:22 PM
This way your phones aren't just sitting on the shelf, you can play with them :-) Most of the rooms in my house are wired with separate cabling for each room for phone & cat 5 for internet. So the way I figure it I should be able to drive my wife nuts if I can ring her from my office / phone room in whatever room she is in, because there is some type of vintage or antique phone in almost every room in the house. If I hook the unit up to the phone line to the unit & the phone rings, do I need a Panasonic switchboard type phone to deal with routing the call? or will just one phone ring? or will all the phones Ring? or is it programmable to do what you want? I would hate to waste my play time by not using a new toy to it's full potential :-)
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 07:33:47 PM
Al as needed, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread but this sounds like so much fun & a useful phone tester too.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 06, 2016, 07:44:16 PM
The default settings in these boxes is that incoming calls ring on all extensions simultaneously.
You need a special proprietary Panasonic telephone to configure the unit for other settings.  For example, you can have each incoming line ring on a designated extension, or on groups of extensions.

They don't actually ring all with the same synchronized cadence, they are staggered in time by ring groups to distribute the power load of the ringers better over time. This creates quite an inferno with real bells, and can be one hell of an alarm system when a dozen phones go off on the same shelf at the same time, it is probably not the most desirable outcome, lol.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 06, 2016, 07:56:47 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 07:33:47 PM
Al as needed, I hope you don't mind me hijacking your thread but this sounds like so much fun & a useful phone tester too.

Don't mind at all! It's part of why I love this forum, great info everywhere you look.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 06, 2016, 09:40:53 PM
Thanks Al as needed & unbeldi, now once I get one & set it up I will have more questions. Searching for a good deal.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 08, 2016, 09:05:51 PM
Always welcome....
Of course, using one of those boxes is just one of many possibilities, but probably the least complex for smaller collections.

If you're looking for higher density, I have solutions with 40+ ports per box, and not really any more expensive than a Panasonic.  In particular, I like the Carrier Access ADIT 600 products.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 08, 2016, 09:53:53 PM
I looked at the Carrier Access ADIT 600 on eBay. they look pretty inexpensive. They seem to be all configured differently. It looks like you need a TDM Controller Card (will it do any phones by it self?). I'm guessing you add FXS Cards (8 phones each, just guessing by the number of lights?). A cable & punchdown block, housing & power supply. again I'm guessing you add FXS cards to add more phones?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 08, 2016, 10:11:56 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 08, 2016, 09:53:53 PM
I looked the Carrier Access ADIT 600 on eBay. they look pretty inexpensive. They seem to be all configured differently. It looks like you need a TDM Controller Card (will it do any phones by it self?). I'm guessing you add FXS Cards (8 phones each, just guessing by the number of lights?). A cable & punchdown block, housing & power supply. again I'm guessing you add FXS cards to add more phones?

Yes, one box can hold up to 6 FXS cards.   I have bought a fully stuffed box for less then $30 incl. shipping. They do show up for ca. $20 at times fully equipped.  You just have to wait for the right deal.

I only use 5 FXS cards, and leave one slot for a CMG router card, which speaks the MGCP protocol. I control the box from a Raspberry Pi running my own MGCP software under Asterisk.  Asterisk does have an MGCP module too, but it is junk.

I have been considering mounting an RPi board directly onto a PCB card, taking power from the box. It would make it a very compact, self-contained unit.
You always need the TDM card in slot A, since it contains the basic operating system for the unit.  It has two T1 ports, which can be used for further expansion to another channel bank, for example, but at the expense of local ports, since the MGCP card can only manage up to 48 logical ports.

The ADIT 600 is an impressively flexible call router, one can almost connect any of the ports in any which way one can imagine.

Of course, it does take quite a bit more skill and effort to build a system, and yes... wiring 25-pair Amphenol connectors is more arduous than plugging RJ11s.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 09, 2016, 01:22:03 PM
Thanks unbeldi, the Carrier Access ADIT 600 looks like a fun project but time consuming, especially if you don't know what you are doing (like me). I think I will start with a 308 or 616 first, that should be enough fun to play with for now, since it seems like it should be plug & play (play literally). phones should be fun right? Once I get my office/phone room setup I will know about how many phones I will be dealing with. i'm guessing about 60 on display but probably not all of them connected. the office & each of 3 rooms upstairs (used to be the kids bedrooms are wire with a second phone jack (from back in the dial up days) but now I can run these lines for a second phone in each room connected to a 308 or 616, whatever I get cheep. yes I can wait for very good deals, I'm cheep & not in a hurry.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: pdxjim911 on May 09, 2016, 06:46:59 PM
I just finished setting up two Adit 600's. Thanks to someone who published their "how to" configuration guide online, I was easily able to connect 64 FXS connections and 16 FXO connections.

It really wasn't that hard and the hardware was fairly cheap.  FXO cards are harder to find, but they are out there.

I used FreePBX to install Asterisk, but was impatient enough to not use the GUI interface.  I learned a lot more using the Linux command line interface and feel I have a better grasp of the entire software now.

Good luck. It's an awesome feeling when you can dial from one old phone to another, but even better calling out through C*NET to another switch or key system.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 09, 2016, 07:44:52 PM
I too want to start the process of networking my collection, realizing it will be a long term project. I am taking notes trying to decide which way to go. I think that if I see a good deal on either unit in question...I will buy it.

Yes Oldguy...phones should indeed be fun!....So far they are!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 12, 2016, 06:26:32 PM
So I bought a 308 on eBay. He was asking $49.96 BIN + 21.50. I offered him $25 & he took it. My new toy came today. it seems to work fine, even though it needs some cleaning up. My wife was thrilled when I hooked up a bunch of phones & called the house, what a racket, it was great :-) I think I will mount it behind the door, under the key boards, it won't use up any useful wall space that way. Now I will have to read all the threads on 308/616s. I want to figure out how much programming I can do, if any with a touch tone phone. now I need to find a deal on a KX-T7030, KX-T7130, KX-T30830 or KX-T61630.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 12, 2016, 07:55:18 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 12, 2016, 06:26:32 PM
So I bought a 308 on eBay. He was asking $49.96 BIN + 21.50. I offered him $25 & he took it. My new toy came today. it seems to work fine, even though it needs some cleaning up. My wife was thrilled when I hooked up a bunch of phones & called the house, what a racket, it was great :-) I think I will mount it behind the door, under the key boards, it won't use up any useful wall space that way. Now I will have to read all the threads on 308/616s. I want to figure out how much programming I can do, if any with a touch tone phone. now I need to find a deal on a KX-T7030, KX-T7130, KX-T30830 or KX-T61630.

That's the way to do it, and that's the right price.
Let's face the truth, we are the only folks who still want one of these, otherwise they are historical junk.

The best proprietary telephone for configuring, and but especially for usage is probably still the KX-T30830, because it has the correct number of line and CO button corresponding to the PBX.  But they are hard to find, at least at an acceptable price. The 7030s are much cheaper to find.
Here is my 30830:
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 12, 2016, 09:01:00 PM
That's great, oldguy!....That is on my project list as well!

Keep us posted on what you do with it!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 13, 2016, 12:57:26 AM
Unbeldi & Pourme, thanks guys. I'm having fun with it.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 13, 2016, 07:52:14 AM
You inspired me, oldguy!...I'm making $25 offers until someone accepts my offer!....On a mission!

Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 13, 2016, 10:03:19 AM
What can be programmed into the 308? Extensions, selective ringing?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: poplar1 on May 13, 2016, 11:12:33 AM
Quote from: AL_as_needed on May 13, 2016, 10:03:19 AM
What can be programmed into the 308? Extensions, selective ringing?


Defaulted, the system allows two-digit dialing between extensions, dial 9 for first available outside line, dial 81, 82, 83 to access line 1, line 2, or 3. Also, all phones ring on an incoming call to any of the 3 lines. You can answer these outside calls from any phone, then transfer to another phone by flashing the hookswitch, then dialing the 2-digit ext. no. you want to transfer to.

Programming allows you to change ringing assignments, so that all phones don't ring on incoming calls from outside. You can also program certain lines to ring only on designated phones.  Also speed dialing, toll restriction, and other features. One useful feature is the day/night program, so that you can have all or several phones ring in the night mode, but  only one or two in the day mode, for example. (This may require leaving the Panasonic phone used for programming connected, in order to have a day/night key to toggle between the two.)

Default programming of extension numbers 11-18 cannot be changed in programming.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 13, 2016, 12:50:18 PM
My 1st $25 offer on a 308) was refused. Along with this comment "Also it is a big and heavy unit so saving $10 on it won't really help much. Depending on where you live, shipping will probably add $20-$30 to the price."

Are these so large that they can't be safely shipped in a USPS Large flat rate box for about $15?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 13, 2016, 02:56:57 PM
Benny, these units aren't mandatory to have, so if you are patient, a good deal will come along. I missed a 616 a couple weeks ago for $20 + shipping. I usually at least get a counter offer, even if it isn't much less than the asking price. I put in an offer on a "BK-Precision-1045B-Telephone-Tester". He was asking $104.99, I offered him $45 & he countered with $70. I didn't get back to him in time, this morning. He relisted It today for $94.99.I like "Make Offer", I always feel like I got a deal. Since I have the 308 I can test phones with, do I really need another toy? My answer would be yes but my wife's would be no. I don't think telling her that since we are married it is half hers would help matters any. I'm thinking of having some of my stuff that I really don't NEED shipped to another address & bringing it home when she's not there. I'm guessing that wouldn't be the act of a loving husband ;-)
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Doug Rose on May 13, 2016, 06:47:08 PM
Benny ...they are big and no way will fit in a flat box ....$25 shipping would be expected....Doug
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 13, 2016, 10:11:39 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 13, 2016, 02:56:57 PM
Benny, these units aren't mandatory to have, so if you are patient, a good deal will come along. I missed a 616 a couple weeks ago for $20 + shipping. I usually at least get a counter offer, even if it isn't much less than the asking price. I put in an offer on a "BK-Precision-1045B-Telephone-Tester". He was asking $104.99, I offered him $45 & he countered with $70. I didn't get back to him in time, this morning. He relisted It today for $94.99.I like "Make Offer", I always feel like I got a deal. Since I have the 308 I can test phones with, do I really need another toy? My answer would be yes but my wife's would be no. I don't think telling her that since we are married it is half hers would help matters any. I'm thinking of having some of my stuff that I really don't NEED shipped to another address & bringing it home when she's not there. I'm guessing that wouldn't be the act of a loving husband ;-)
I understand about the "wife" situation....I also have one of those....Ha!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 13, 2016, 10:14:51 PM
Quote from: Doug Rose on May 13, 2016, 06:47:08 PM
Benny ...they are big and no way will fit in a flat box ....$25 shipping would be expected....Doug

It is not always evident how bulky items are in pictures....thanks for the response....

They look lik a older cassette recorder!...Thanks!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 13, 2016, 10:37:44 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 13, 2016, 10:14:51 PM
It is not always evident how bulky items are in pictures....thanks for the response....

They look like a older cassette recorder!...Thanks!

From the manual:

Dimensions (H×W×D)  14 1/2 x 11 1/8 x 3 3/4 inches

Weight:  Approx. 5.6 lb
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 14, 2016, 09:51:38 AM
Quote from: TelePlay on May 13, 2016, 10:37:44 PM
From the manual:

Dimensions (H×W×D)  14 1/2 x 11 1/8 x 3 3/4 inches

Weight:  Approx. 5.6 lb

Thanks!...That is indeed larger than the pictures look!

Still shopping...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 14, 2016, 11:32:24 AM
Quote from: TelePlay on May 13, 2016, 10:37:44 PM
From the manual: ( KX-TA308 )

Dimensions (H×W×D)  14 1/2 x 11 1/8 x 3 3/4 inches

Weight:  Approx. 5.6 lb

I don't have a 308 so I got the above from a KX-TA308 on line manual but the TA308 is not be the same as the KX-T308. The TA308 seems to be a newer, more advanced unit that is smaller in size and weight than the T308. My T616 seems to have the same sized cabinet as the T308 but the T308 may weigh a bit less. Anyone who has a KX-T308 could provide accurate dimensions for that model.

I took my KX-T61610 off the wall to get the following specs. The T616 and T308 on line manuals do not have this information. The dimensions may be the same as the T308 but may weight more for the T616.

KX-T61610

     Dimensions (H×W×D): Approx. 17 x 13 x 4 inches

     Weight:  Approx. 14.4 lb
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 14, 2016, 12:13:45 PM
The KX-T30810 and KX-T61610 have the identically sized case.

Per manual:
Size:
334 (W) x 437 (H) x 107 (D) mm
13 6/32" x 17 7/32" x 4 7/32"

Weight:
KX-T30810 version 1:         5 kg (11 lb 0.4 oz)
KX-T61610 version 2 or 3:  7.2 kg (15 lb 14 oz)
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 14, 2016, 02:28:56 PM
Here are copies of the
- Installation Manual
- Station User Guide
- Service Manual (V1)
for the 30810.

The installation manual has all the configuration options.

Panasonic KX-T30810--Installation Manual--CRPF.pdf
Panasonic KX-T30810--Station User Guide for TT and Rotary Telephones PQQX5291YA--CRPF.pdf
Panasonic KX-T30810--Service Manual--CRPF.pdf

PS:  I have moved the manuals to a separate post in the designated key system section:

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=16184.0
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 14, 2016, 03:17:18 PM
Thanks unbeldi for the manuals & measurements. My rough measurements were 17"X13"X 4", so the manual is correct. I didn't weigh it though. I'm sure I will get a lot of use out of the manuals.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 15, 2016, 06:53:10 PM
I ordered this 30810 PBX today....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/172201471182

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 15, 2016, 07:24:16 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 15, 2016, 06:53:10 PM
I ordered this 30810 PBX today....

http://www.ebay.com/itm/172201471182

Looks like another good purchase, since the shipping is low.  It is a version 3 unit, the latest of these. Looks clean.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 15, 2016, 08:18:22 PM
Quote from: unbeldi on May 15, 2016, 07:24:16 PM
Looks like another good purchase, since the shipping is low.  It is a version 3 unit, the latest of these. Looks clean.

It did look clean..I took that as s sign....
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 15, 2016, 09:46:29 PM
Hey Benny, did you give in & pay the full price, or did they take a $25 offer? Even if you paid full price, you more than made up for it on the BK Precision 1045A phone taster.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 16, 2016, 07:27:49 AM
Quote from: oldguy on May 15, 2016, 09:46:29 PM
Hey Benny, did you give in & pay the full price, or did they take a $25 offer? Even if you paid full price, you more than made up for it on the BK Precision 1045A phone taster.

I gave in....after a while you get tired of shopping....This one appeared to be in good condition...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 16, 2016, 01:02:20 PM
Let me know how it works out once you get it all set up Pourme and oldguy.

A PBX like the 308 sounds like the next  "big" phase in  enabling my collection to grow, as well as to enter more technologically involved waters. I am taking over a friends business, so a PBX may actually be more practical than just from a collecting standpoint for me. Naturally some of my phones are already being put back into "active duty" taking and making company calls.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 16, 2016, 01:30:59 PM
Quote from: AL_as_needed on May 16, 2016, 01:02:20 PM
Let me know how it works out once you get it all set up Pourme and oldguy.

A PBX like the 308 sounds like the next  "big" phase in  enabling my collection to grow, as well as to enter more technologically involved waters. I am taking over a friends business, so a PBX may actually be more practical than just from a collecting standpoint for me. Naturally some of my phones are already being put back into "active duty" taking and making company calls.

I see many practical uses...In addition to just having fun with our old phones...Thinking how I might configure mine now...I have a home office with a business line as well...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 16, 2016, 08:49:12 PM
I have 8 dial phones hooked up, but not hooked up to the land line line & it works great. I have had the land line hooked up & it works that way too.  I am having trouble with some of my touch tone phones on the 308, They seem to work ok on my land line. So it seems to be either my 308 or the 308 settings are the problem. I would have thought I would have had problems with the dial phones & the touch tone phones would have been ok.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 18, 2016, 05:59:41 PM
My 308 arrived just a few short hours ago. I don't have a priority phone for it (yet). After playing with it for a few minutes I notice, (I haven't wired it into a CO line at all) every phone I add as extensions will ring when dialed but, the touch tone phones can't dial up any extension. I can only connect with rotary dial phones.

I searched this forum extensively to no avail. I pushed the reset button and no difference, suggestions?

Thanks, Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 18, 2016, 06:33:55 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 18, 2016, 05:59:41 PM
My 308 arrived just a few short hours ago. I don't have a priority phone for it (yet). After playing with it for a few minutes I notice, (I haven't wired it into a CO line at all) every phone I add as extensions will ring when dialed but, the touch tone phones can't dial up any extension. I can only connect with rotary dial phones.

I searched this forum extensively to no avail. I pushed the reset button and no difference, suggestions?

Thanks, Benny

What kind of TouchTone telephone are you connecting ?

If I recall correctly, the 308 systems have the polarity of tip and ring reversed on the RJ11 station jacks.  So if you are using an early TouchTone set, dialing does not work, unless a polarity guard is installed in the telephone.

If you are using a fairly new phone, it should not matter of course.

Can you hear the DTMF tones when dialing?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 18, 2016, 06:58:02 PM
Quote from: unbeldi on May 18, 2016, 06:33:55 PM
What kind of TouchTone telephone are you connecting ?

If I recall correctly, the 308 systems have the polarity of tip and ring reversed on the RJ11 station jacks.  So if you are using an early TouchTone set, dialing does not work, unless a polarity guard is installed in the telephone.

If you are using a fairly new phone, it should not matter of course.

Can you hear the DTMF tones when dialing?

You are correct!....All 3 phones were older touchtone phones, I can't hear the tones when I dial.  I used my "modern" RCA office phone and Presto!...it worked!

If I use these older phones I reverse the polarity and they will work?....I will experiment with that.

Thank you oh, phone whisperer!

Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 18, 2016, 07:34:59 PM
Yes, reversing polarity will fix it.
If you have new 6P4C connectors and a crimping tool—I would guess almost any collector should have one—then you can cut off one of the ends of a cord and crimp a new connector on in the opposite way, so that you have a straight-through cable.  I usually mark such cables with a color band or something, such as a straight stripe with a black marker pen on silver-gray flat cord.

The reason for Panasonic reversing the pins is probably the same logic as employed in many VoIP ATAs, to enable residential users to simply use a standard modular cord and plug an extension into the wall outlet of home telephone wiring which has been disconnected from the network interface of the telephone company.

The larger 16-station PBXs, KX-T61610 have the proper polarity.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 18, 2016, 07:44:08 PM
Of course, I am not advocating cutting off the end of  a historic original Western Electric modular cord, that I would preserve and make a polarity switching adapter from a four-inch short piece of telephone cord and a female-female coupler.  Such couplers can be found extremely inexpensively.  I think I bought a bag of 50 one time, for a few dollars.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 18, 2016, 08:19:16 PM
I opened up the DecoTel "box" type phone that was one of the touch tone phones and reversed the polarity at the network and it worked like a charm!...

Now, as my original house phone wiring system is occupied & I don't want to include it, where is the best place to order 8 jacks and about 10 miles of phone wire? Left on my own I may wind up with inferior products at a high price.  Plus I will be needing one of those crimping tool and connectors as well.  I live in a small community and I find it's much easier to order specialized products, Radio Shack is the only alternative here.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 18, 2016, 09:54:35 PM
I used to have wire ordered by the spool (1000ft) through the Home Depot website as they did not carry it in store. It worked out to be cheaper, as did the outlets and boxes (bought by the case). Although they may not carry it online anymore, have not had to wire in hard-line phone lines for a few years now.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AE_Collector on May 18, 2016, 10:47:25 PM
Maybe do some reading about home wiring here:

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?board=102.0

Terry
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 06:51:38 AM
Quote from: AE_Collector on May 18, 2016, 10:47:25 PM
Maybe do some reading about home wiring here:

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?board=102.0

Terry

Thanks for the link...lots of good information there...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 11:09:24 AM
The 308 has found it's new home....
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 19, 2016, 12:15:10 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 11:09:24 AM
The 308 has found it's new home....

I like your idea of displaying it.
Mister Matsushita would have been proud of it, lol.
Considering how old some these 308s are, they are perhaps as worthy of display as many phones of that era.
I think Panasonic started designing the first generation of these about the time of the break-up of the Bell System.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 19, 2016, 03:11:09 PM
We need to see more pictures of your room.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AL_as_needed on May 19, 2016, 03:42:54 PM
I know we have w gotten in the PBX side of things, but I just discovered something on my XLink. I was able to find the right USB cord and downloaded the software from the maker (xtreme tech) and it actually has voltage settings for vintage phones as well as a polarity switching option. I can set pulse rate, ring cycle/pattern, as well as transmit and receive volume. Pretty cool.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 07:51:08 PM
Thanks!
It looks at home there...The work bench is just out of the pic on the left...makes it convenient as well...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 08:44:06 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 19, 2016, 03:11:09 PM
We need to see more pictures of your room.
It's a small room that also serves as storage for dry goods....I may post a few pics....I remember seeing a thread for that...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 19, 2016, 09:14:32 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 19, 2016, 08:44:06 PM
It's a small room that also serves as storage for dry goods....I may post a few pics....I remember seeing a thread for that...

http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?board=68.0
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 20, 2016, 07:00:40 PM
I decided to go with the KX-T 61610 since it doesn't have the polarity issue. found one on eBay asking price $40. I offered him $25 & he took it. $25.00 + $18.25 shipping. there are more inexpensive ones on eBay right now. I will try to sell my 308 after I get It's replacement. I wanted to wire some of the house phones plus my display phones, so 16 will work out better.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 20, 2016, 10:18:07 PM
Sounds like a wise choice....keep us posted, I'm curious how you like it
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 20, 2016, 10:25:58 PM
By the way...excellent buy!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 21, 2016, 12:22:16 AM
Thanks.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Owain on May 21, 2016, 04:01:00 PM
You can probably piggyback the 308 onto the 616 if you want to have 8 phones in one location and only need 1 pair back to the main 616 pbx.

The 308 phones would have to dial double 9 for outside line or 9xxx for main pbx extensions
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AE_Collector on May 21, 2016, 06:08:00 PM
We had that but in a bit larger scale in Vancouver. The entire university campus was a big Centrex PBX. Then there were some private PBX's in some research facilities associated with the university and on the university campus. This was late 70's early 80's when we put in a new electronic PBX at one of these facilities. I had a friend who worked there and later he mentioned that to dial his girlfriend some 30 miles away he had to pick up his extension, dial 9 to get out to the PBX to the university Centrex, dial 9 to get out of the University to the Area CO and then dial his girlfriend who's number was something like 939-99something 9. He was worried about the life expectancy of the "9" on his new phone. I told him to be glad he no longer had his old rotary dial phone!

Terry
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 21, 2016, 08:58:47 PM
Quote from: AE_Collector on May 21, 2016, 06:08:00 PM
We had that but in a bit larger scale in Vancouver. The entire university campus was a big Centrex PBX. Then there were some private PBX's in some research facilities associated with the university and on the university campus. This was late 70's early 80's when we put in a new electronic PBX at one of these facilities. I had a friend who worked there and later he mentioned that to dial his girlfriend some 30 miles away he had to pick up his extension, dial 9 to get out to the university Centrex, dial 9 to get out of the University to the Area CO and then dial his girlfriend who's number was something like 939-99something 9. He was worried about the life expectancy of the "9" on his new phone. I told him to be glad he no longer had his old rotary dial phone!

Terry

Funny!.......
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 21, 2016, 10:09:01 PM
I didn't know that could be done. Sounds like a good idea, thanks Owain. Do I plug the 308 CO1 into Ext.11 on the 616?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on May 21, 2016, 10:23:44 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 21, 2016, 10:09:01 PM
I didn't know that could be done. Sounds like a good idea, thanks Owain. Do I plug the 308 CO1 into Ext.11 on the 616?

Sure, but you may want to select another port if you want to install a proprietary Panasonic telephone for configuring the unit, which can only be done from the first port.

Each station port on the PBX is essentially like a central office line to the telephone, or another PBX if chained.
Now you have your own central office and telephone network.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 21, 2016, 10:35:39 PM
I wasn't thinking (normal) maybe because I don't have a proprietary Panasonic telephone yet but I put in a bid on a 7030.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 22, 2016, 08:49:36 AM
Quote from: oldguy on May 21, 2016, 10:35:39 PM
I wasn't thinking (normal) maybe because I don't have a proprietary Panasonic telephone yet but I put in a bid on a 7030.
i know it will serve as a priority for the 308....but as I understand it not the 16?

Edit:
Perhaps it will compiled by Unbeldi:


Re: 308/616 Telephone sets
« Reply #8 on: January 21, 2015, 10:25:29 AM »
Quote
As a summary, what I can gather:

The red high-lighted units are what most collectors are talking about:  KX-T30810 and KX-T61610

KX-T series PBX (206, 308, 336, 616, 1232),
KX-Txxx10 series PBX (30810, 61610, 123210): analog with digitally controlled proprietary analog phones (PT), and standard single line analog telephone (SLT).
  Telephones: PT:
                     KX-T30820, KX-T30830 (pgrm), KX-T30850    (3 CO)
                     KX-T61620, KX-T61630 (pgrm), KX-T61650   (6 CO)
                     KX-123220, KX-T123230 (pgrm), KX-T123250   (12 CO)
                     KX-T7000 series (7020, 30, 50)  (12 CO)
                     KX-T7130    (12 CO, additional feature buttons w/r/t the 7030)
                     SLT (TT, DP/LD)
  Programming PT: KX-T30830, 61630, 7030, 7130

KX-TA series PBX (308, 616, 624, 824, ...): Advanced Hybrid System
  Telephones: PT: KX-T7000, KX-T7100, KX-T7300, KX-T7700
                     SLT (TT,DP/LD

KX-TAW series PBX:  advanced hybrid with wireless features
  Telephones:  PT:  KX-T7000, KX-T7700, KX-T7000D series
                     SLT (TT, DP/LD)

KX-TD series PBX (308, 500, 816, 1232): "Digital Super Hybrid System"
Telephones: PT:  KX-T4000, T2000
                   T7000, T7130 .... ?
                   SLT (TT, DP/LD)

KX-TDA series

KX-TDE series

KX-NCP series

DBS series
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 22, 2016, 03:28:18 PM
Here is a KX-T61610 for $25.00 + $16.65 shipping

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-EASA-Phone-616-Electronic-Modular-Switching-System-model-KX-T61610-/291766045301
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 22, 2016, 03:44:31 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 22, 2016, 03:28:18 PM
Here is a KX-T61610 for $25.00 + $16.65 shipping

And it'd the newest version (3) but no inside pictures. Looks like a good deal, even at the BIN price.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 22, 2016, 05:29:04 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 22, 2016, 03:28:18 PM
Here is a KX-T61610 for $25.00 + $16.65 shipping

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-EASA-Phone-616-Electronic-Modular-Switching-System-model-KX-T61610-/291766045301

That is a min $25 bid...I made the bid...I I get it I will replace my 308, if not that is ok too.....Thanks for the heads up!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 23, 2016, 02:44:15 PM
Midnight tonight will tell on the 616.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Owain on May 23, 2016, 03:29:55 PM
Quote from: AE_Collector on May 21, 2016, 06:08:00 PM
We had that but in a bit larger scale in Vancouver. The entire university campus was a big Centrex PBX. Then there were some private PBX's..  he mentioned that to dial his girlfriend some 30 miles away he had to pick up his extension, dial 9 to get out to the PBX to the university Centrex, dial 9 to get out of the University to the Area CO

Stirling University had similar arrangements for several departments such as the chaplaincy and the students' association using a BT Minimaster 3
http://www.britishtelephones.com/mini3.htm
This is a 2+10 LD only PBX with no proprietary phones. It was wired so that Line 1 was from the University PBX and Line 2 was a direct exchange line. This enabled one answering machine to serve both the PBX line and the direct line. This was before direct-dialling-in to extensions so having a direct line was the only way of having incoming or outgoing calls after the switchboard closed at 5pm.

The Uni PABX at this time (until about 1990) was a corded switchboard, probably a PABX 3 as the extension instructions including the requiremenbt for a double-press of the Recall button to obtain the operator on an enquiry call.

http://www.britishtelephones.com/pabx3.htm
http://www.britishtelephones.com/ericsson/pabx3.htm
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 23, 2016, 04:43:33 PM
I have a bid on a 616 to possibly replace my 308. The seller says he has 18 phones that were used with the unit, he would also sell. What is the best Panasonic program phone to use with the 616? I know there are several that will work, what I'm asking is there one model # that is more desirable for some reason, than the others if one could choose?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 23, 2016, 04:45:24 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 23, 2016, 02:44:15 PM
Midnight tonight will tell on the 616.

There is another unit with a min bid of $29.00 with no bids....I'm hoping mine will be left alone!...Ha!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 23, 2016, 10:12:59 PM
May the Force be with you.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 23, 2016, 10:16:36 PM
I would think the tx-t61630 is the one designed for it.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 24, 2016, 10:40:40 AM
It looks like you won the 616, congratulations Benny. It looks like you may have raised your bid?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 24, 2016, 12:14:30 PM
"I know it will serve as a priority for the 308....but as I understand it not the 16?"

Thanks Benny, I still don't completely understand the compatibility issue. Not sure what I am going to do about a programming phone.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 24, 2016, 04:19:15 PM
I got my 616 today, it works with a WE 2500. I haven't decided what to do with the 308 yet but i'm sure i'll hook them together at some point. It sounds like fun, doesn't it? Phones should be fun, shouldn't they?
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 24, 2016, 06:07:20 PM
What I did, Gary was raised my max bid to $35 in case someone wanted to bid...I didn't want to make it quite so easy for them to win...I got it for the $25 bid...I'm happy!...I'm trying to find out what program phones he has to sell...so far today he has yet to respond to my query...

And, YES!...phones should indeed be fun!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AE_Collector on May 24, 2016, 09:12:10 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 24, 2016, 04:19:15 PM
It sounds like fun, doesn't it? Phones should be fun, shouldn't they?

Well, I dont know! Can I phone a friend?

Anyone have Bills phone number in Walla Walla Washington? Bill (PhonesRFun) that is?

Terry
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 26, 2016, 06:10:08 PM
Quote from: Pourme on May 24, 2016, 06:07:20 PM
What I did, Gary was raised my max bid to $35 in case someone wanted to bid...I didn't want to make it quite so easy for them to win...I got it for the $25 bid...I'm happy!...I'm trying to find out what program phones he has to sell...so far today he has yet to respond to my query...

And, YES!...phones should indeed be fun!

The seller,  ulises712, said he had a 7030 phone "make me a offer"...I offered $15 to add to the 616. I thought he would counter. He should price his msd not me. Each response took him 24 hours to reply. He said the 616 wasn't working properly asked me not to pay until he could check it out first. I asked him why he didn't check it out before he listed it. He canceled the sale. I think he had seller's remorse because I was the only bidder at $25.

I wish I could post feedback but, the purchase was canceled and I can't. I messed around with this guy all week. I will look to see if he relists.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 26, 2016, 11:30:56 PM
Too bad Benny, I guess it wasn't ment to be. Keep looking, there will be more inexpensive ones coming up.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on May 27, 2016, 12:05:03 AM
Quote from: Pourme on May 26, 2016, 06:10:08 PM
I think he had seller's remorse because I was the only bidder at $25.

The seller might have seem more bids had the seller included more photos of the 616, with at least one being the inside.

Seller description said among other things, "It works well when closed my office but it is sold as is". Sold as is means it might not be working so why is the seller testing the 616 for working order after the auction ended and the item sold?

And if it wasn't working when  received by the buyer, it would have been on the buyer because the listing also said sold as is and the seller does not offer returns.

Very interesting turn of events by the seller. You would have more to stand on for shipment to you had you paid for the 616 right away. $38 for a non-working 616 is a bit of a burn but $38 for a working 616 would have been a deal.

A quick check of eBay for "sold" 616s show prices range from $40 to $145 including shipping. Will be interesting to see if the seller tries again and at what price.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 27, 2016, 02:55:04 PM
Benny, can you contact eBay & get him to sell it to you. From what I have read & from my experience (only 2) even the untested ones usually work. Just a thought. At this point I'm sorry I suggested it but it seemed like a good deal, the shipping was even low. 
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 27, 2016, 06:49:13 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 27, 2016, 02:55:04 PM
Benny, can you contact eBay & get him to sell it to you. From what I have read & from my experience (only 2) even the untested ones usually work. Just a thought. At this point I'm sorry I suggested it but it seemed like a good deal, the shipping was even low. 
Quote from: TelePlay on May 27, 2016, 12:05:03 AM
The seller might have seem more bids had the seller included more photos of the 616, with at least one being the inside.

Seller description said among other things, "It works well when closed my office but it is sold as is". Sold as is means it might not be working so why is the seller testing the 616 for working order after the auction ended and the item sold?

And if it wasn't working when  received by the buyer, it would have been on the buyer because the listing also said sold as is and the seller does not offer returns.

Very interesting turn of events by the seller. You would have more to stand on for shipment to you had you paid for the 616 right away. $38 for a non-working 616 is a bit of a burn but $38 for a working 616 would have been a deal.

A quick check of eBay for "sold" 616s show prices range from $40 to $145 including shipping. Will be interesting to see if the seller tries again and at what price.

I have no proof but, my gut feeling is that he thought it went too cheap....I think he backed out so he could relist it later and get more...As I said, no evidence to support this theory....

My 308 is working flawlessly & I am in no hurry...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 31, 2016, 03:34:22 PM
After my close call in the purchase of a 616 last week, I am currently the high bidder on another one from a different bidder now at $24.99. Bid ends Fri am....

This one was offered last week for 29.95 with no bidders. It returned this week at the lower price.

Fingers crossed this time.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on May 31, 2016, 05:52:43 PM
Good luck Benny. I see you bid twice on this one too.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on May 31, 2016, 07:27:42 PM
Quote from: oldguy on May 31, 2016, 05:52:43 PM
Good luck Benny. I see you bid twice on this one too.

I did the same thing again, I made the min bid then decided to place a higher bid later...It shows up as two bids....
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on June 04, 2016, 08:01:51 AM
Quote from: Pourme on May 31, 2016, 07:27:42 PM
I did the same thing again, I made the min bid then decided to place a higher bid later...It shows up as two bids....

Benny,

Congrats on winning that 616 yesterday. I'm surprised no one else bid on it. Might have been the unknown of it working or not. I see it does have a battery that can be replaced and it's a Ver 3. A very good price plus low shipping so fingers are crossed that it is in good working order when you get it. Let us know when it arrives.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-Easa-Phone-616-Electronic-Modular-Switch-System-KX-T61610-/381651040472
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 04, 2016, 08:46:27 AM
Thanks John!...I agree with your assessment. The seller has sold about a "million" electronic pieces and currently has more pages of electronic pieces available than I have time to browse. Based on his experience and reputation I thought it was worth a chance.

I will let you know what I find when it arrives!

Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 04, 2016, 05:32:30 PM
Congratulations Benny, I'm glad you didn't out bid yourself ;)  Both my 308 & 616 were listed as untested & work fine. from what I have heard & my experience they seem to be almost indestructible.  Now that you have 2, 308 & 616, you will have to expand your horizons :)  I'm thinking of putting my 308 over by my payphones when I get them all working.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 04, 2016, 09:49:19 PM
Hmmmm....I was wondering what to do with the 308....
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: RotarDad on June 04, 2016, 10:01:58 PM
Benny - You should be fine with that 616.  I bought mine several years back with only the knowledge that it powered up (lights came on with the switch).  It still works great.  The consensus on the forum then, was that if it powers up, most likely the unit is good.  As land lines disappear, I can't imagine not having one of these to keep the old phones working!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 04, 2016, 10:30:38 PM
I have my fingers crossed, Paul...you do have a point...any serious collector should have a PBX to make use of the phones...
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: andre_janew on June 05, 2016, 12:14:40 PM
There are some serious collectors on this forum that have 500 or more phones.  I'm not even close to that number yet.  I've often wondered how many of those phones they have hooked up at one time.  I can't imagine them having all 500 hooked up at one time.  If they do, it must be awfully noisy when they get a call!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 08, 2016, 08:39:35 PM
My $25, 616 came in today. I really like how easy it was to take the 308 off the wall and just slip the 616 in it's place. The unit was described as "untested"...A brief test shows it to be in working order. I haven't tested each of the connections yet, but the ones I did work perfectly, which is good because there is a sticker that says the warranty runs out on 4/06.
I do have at least 2 phones that I switched the polarity on that will have to switch back, but that's OK.

I have a 7030 program phone due to be delivered tomorrow to allow me to play with it a bit more!...This is fun!

Benny

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 11, 2016, 11:58:35 AM
Hey Benny, did you get your KX-T7030? Have played with it yet? I keep getting out bit, probably because I'm cheap.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 11, 2016, 09:40:14 PM
Quote from: oldguy on June 11, 2016, 11:58:35 AM
Hey Benny, did you get your KX-T7030? Have played with it yet? I keep getting out bit, probably because I'm cheap.

I did get it...It isn't working...I have requested a refund. My first experience like this... :(
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on June 11, 2016, 09:55:07 PM
Quote from: Pourme on June 11, 2016, 09:40:14 PM
I did get it...It isn't working...I have requested a refund. My first experience like this... :(

Did it come with a line cord? Is it the right one to use as a programming phone? Does the phone work on your land line directly? Is the switch set correctly for use as a phone on your landline? IIRC, the phone requires 4 wires when used in port 11, the black and yellow (IIRC) are for the display and programming. Others who know better can correct me and ask better questions, or better phrased questions.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: AE_Collector on June 12, 2016, 12:40:19 AM
Yes I think there is a whole bunch of things that need to be confirmed first before deciding that the phone is DOA when trying to plug it directly into a port on the KSU. Start by ensuring that it is the correct phone for your version if the KSU and that the cord is 4 conductors not 2. The polarity of the cord may be a factor as well.

I think this is the topic where this was discussed extensively:
http://www.classicrotaryphones.com/forum/index.php?topic=15595.0

Terry
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 12, 2016, 10:03:06 PM
I had very little time to check the phone out, I will look at it again tomorrow...I could Get a dial tone and generate a number response with my 1045A but couldn't make it ring..... It didn't come with a line cord...the one I used was a 4 conductor cord. I hooked it up to my magic jack line with no dial tone. I will try it with the land line next.

Thanks for the help....

Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on June 12, 2016, 11:14:02 PM
Quote from: Pourme on June 12, 2016, 10:03:06 PM
I had very little time to check the phone out, I will look at it again tomorrow...I could Get a dial tone and generate a number response with my 1045A but couldn't make it ring..... It didn't come with a line cord...the one I used was a 4 conductor cord. I hooked it up to my magic jack line with no dial tone. I will try it with the land line next.

Thanks for the help....

Benny

These phones do not ring on a pots line. When connected to the PBX, the ringing is generated from a digital command.  Only analog phones are rung via the center pair, like a POTS line.  However, dialing out should work, and you should hear the touch tone pad generate DTMF tones.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 13, 2016, 04:57:41 PM
Once again the forum phone whispers saved my skin!...Took a nice long look today and the 7030 was suffering from operator failure. Everything is in working order and I withdrew my return request on EBAY and apologized to the seller. Now I need to study the program changes that are possible and determine what new tricks I want train my 616 to do!

Thanks for the help everybody!

Benny
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on June 13, 2016, 05:10:41 PM
Quote from: Pourme on June 13, 2016, 04:57:41 PM
Once again the forum phone whispers saved my skin!...Took a nice long look today and the 7030 was suffering from operator failure. Everything is in working order and I withdrew my return request on EBAY and apologized to the seller. Now I need to study the program changes that are possible and determine what new tricks I want train my 616 to do!

Thanks for the help everybody!

Benny
For the benefit of future new readers, it might help them if you describe your error, as they very likely might run into similar problems.

I recently also thought that my 30830 phone had died, until I remembered to position that particular PBX unit to the upright position, rather than laying it flat on the floor. Apparently some relay in the unit is getting weak or sticky, but works well in the intended (and probably accustomed) position.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 13, 2016, 08:01:53 PM
Quote from: unbeldi on June 13, 2016, 05:10:41 PM
For the benefit of future new readers, it might help them if you describe your error, as they very likely might run into similar problems.

I recently also thought that my 30830 phone had died, until I remembered to position that particular PBX unit to the upright position, rather than laying it flat on the floor. Apparently some relay in the unit is getting weak or sticky, but works well in the intended (and probably accustomed) position.

I am a bit puzzled myself as to what I did wrong. unbeldi. Could it had been as simple as not plugging the program phone into line 11? I was testing it on my work bench jack that was routed into line 12. I tested on a open Magic Jack line earlier but have not tried it again today.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on June 13, 2016, 08:05:36 PM
Quote from: Pourme on June 13, 2016, 08:01:53 PM
I am a bit puzzled myself as to what I did wrong. unbeldi. Could it had been as simple as not plugging the program phone into line 11? I was testing it on my work bench jack that was routed into line 12. I tested on a open Magic Jack line earlier but have not tried it again today.

I don't know....  but it should have worked as a phone on any of the ports just fine, displaying date and time right away.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 20, 2016, 10:53:37 PM
So Benny, have you had any fun with your KX-T7030 yet.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 21, 2016, 09:20:07 PM
Quote from: oldguy on June 20, 2016, 10:53:37 PM
So Benny, have you had any fun with your KX-T7030 yet.

I haven't had a lot of time lately but, I did figure out how to begin. I read a lot of owner's manual information. I figured out I had to set the 616 on program as well as the 7030 at the same time. I think I need a different card to place over the keys that liable them for programming purposes. I was able to set the date and time. That doesn't sound like much but I do understand a lot more about the system as a result.

I'm still reading when I can to figure out how I would like to configure the system. There are a lot of options baked in!
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Jim Stettler on June 22, 2016, 12:12:54 AM
Quote from: Pourme on June 21, 2016, 09:20:07 PM
I think I need a different card to place over the keys that liable them for programming purposes.

I think there is a copy of the "keypad overlay" in the manual.
ISTR
Jim S.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 22, 2016, 08:47:39 PM
Thanks Jim.....
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 25, 2016, 07:42:21 PM
I bought a KX-T61630. It looks different? Any thoughts?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-KX-T61630-/172251609447 ?hash=item281afef967:g:AvUAAOSwOVpXbChH
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on June 25, 2016, 08:01:02 PM
Quote from: oldguy on June 25, 2016, 07:42:21 PM
I bought a KX-T61630. It looks different? Any thoughts?

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Panasonic-KX-T61630-/172251609447 ?hash=item281afef967:g:AvUAAOSwOVpXbChH

Looks nice, not different.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: TelePlay on June 25, 2016, 08:06:00 PM
And at a very good price. Why do you think it looks different? What do you see? Looks like a 61630 to me.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 26, 2016, 06:28:40 PM
The other ones I've seem look like this, more button on the top. but if it programs, I'm ok with it.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on June 26, 2016, 07:17:43 PM
Quote from: oldguy on June 26, 2016, 06:28:40 PM
The other ones I've seem look like this, more button on the top. but if it programs, I'm ok with it.

That's a more modern style, for a later type of system, but it isn't a 30-type, it doesn't have a display.

I think it is a 7000-series telephone.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 27, 2016, 12:26:58 AM
Thanks unbeldi, I just searched kx-t61630 to get the picture. I should have paid more attention. Anyway, the idea was the style & the number of buttons at the top.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on June 28, 2016, 06:42:30 PM
I finally found a picture of another KX-T61630 & it is identical. As silly as this may seem, the fact that it is so white & the other phones I have seen are yellowed my have had something to do with the confusion. anyway, it was a good price & looks like new. I'm thankful since I tend to be cheap, always looking for a deal. The top one is the one I bought & the bottom one is a picture from an ad.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: Pourme on June 28, 2016, 10:39:56 PM
Doesn't look like the same phone, Gary....

It should clean up though..Excellent price. I could never even find one of those when I was looking for one.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on July 02, 2016, 01:11:49 PM
I received my KX-T61630. I was impressed that it wasn't yellowed. It doesn't seem to work. Plugged it into my 616 with a 4 wire cord, into EXT.11. the phone acts dead. this seems to be a common issue from what I have read here. I tried another line cord, same results, no display, no dial tone. I haven't read the other posts yet but I think Tina & Benny had similar issues. Any suggestions?   
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on July 02, 2016, 02:54:43 PM
Does it work on a standard telephone line when the switch is set to power fail mode?
You should get dial tone and can dial, but it won't ring.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on July 02, 2016, 05:10:59 PM
yes it works in "Power Failure" mode on the 616 & POTS line. When I get a few minutes, I think I will get my 308 out & see if it works on that.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on July 02, 2016, 08:01:11 PM
The 61630 phone is plugged into Ext. 23 & I get time & date & the phone has dial tone & dials other phones on the 616. So it seems like the phone is ok but Ext. 11 on the 61610 has a problem. does anybody know how to test the outer terminals on Ext. 11? Voltage? I did a visual inspection & the 4 contacts look good, they are all 4 sticking down at what looks like a good angle & are even. The phone works on Ext. 11 on my 308! I was able to program the time into the 308, so I guess the phone is good. Not bad for $15.00 & $11.14 shipping. Just like most of the PT problems, operator error. now I still have to try to fix the 616.
Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: unbeldi on July 02, 2016, 08:48:44 PM
Quote from: oldguy on July 02, 2016, 08:01:11 PM
The 61630 phone is plugged into Ext. 23 & I get time & date & the phone has dial tone & dials other phones on the 616. So it seems like the phone is ok but Ext. 11 on the 61610 has a problem. does anybody know how to test the outer terminals on Ext. 11? Voltage? I did a visual inspection & the 4 contacts look good, they are all 4 sticking down at what looks like a good angle & are even. The phone works on Ext. 11 on my 308!

The voltage on the outer pins of the jack should be ca. 13 volts.
We have seen several failures of the digital function of ports.  Is it working on any other than Ext. 23?   Often they fail in groups of eight, 11-18 and 19-26, because the logic is split up like that internally.

Title: Re: Best way to wire up a collection? (PBX)
Post by: oldguy on July 02, 2016, 09:27:56 PM
I updated my previous post, phone is fine. Thanks unbeldi, your always a great source of information. now if your wife would just appreciate you as much as we do :) I got 11.44V DC on the 308 & 0.0V on the 616, not good.