Before testing the EXP7900, we charged it for the recommended 15 to 20 hours. The sturdy handset has an intuitive button layout featuring flash, memory, and three "one-touch priority" keys. The memory function stores up to 10 phone numbers. The priority buttons dial the numbers you have stored into memory locations 1, 2, and 3 on the keypad.

Learning the phone's features was also easy and intuitive. To save a number, we pressed the memory button, entered the phone number, pressed memory again, and then assigned a number between zero and nine. The handset beeped to let us know the number was saved. To dial a saved number, we simply pressed talk, memory, and then the memory location (0 through 9). Dialing a number from a priority button is even easier; pressing "m1," "m2," or "m3" dials the number automatically. If you subscribe to call waiting, you can switch to an incoming call by pressing the flash button.

Since the EXP7900 operates in the 900 MHz radio band, its signal can easily penetrate walls and other physical barriers better than lower frequency signals, while maintaining a clear connection. During our tests, we noticed a slight humming sound in the background but it wasn't enough to be distracting. We were able to use the phone 100 feet from the base with no interference and up to 700 feet with some background static. The channel button activates a 40-channel auto scan that finds the best channel for your current call.

Additional features of the 7900 include redial, ringer selection, and volume. You can choose between two different ringer sounds. The volume button adjusts your ringer to high or low, and also provides three receiver levels. While you are on a call, simply press the volume button until you reach the level you want. A handset locator button on the base allows you to find your handset if it is within hearing distance. The EXP7900 is also hearing- aid compatible and can be wall-mounted. --Emily Bakko

Pros:

• Sturdy handset with intuitive layout
• Three one-touch priority keys
• Retains clear signal through walls

Cons:

• Slight humming in background