The Cisco IP Phone 7916 is a 16-line expansion module designed to work with primary Cisco IP Phones (such as the 7940, 7960, or 7970 series) to provide additional line appearances and features. It connects via a sidecar cable and shares the network connection and configuration of the primary phone. Below are key sections for overview, installation, configuration, operation, features, and troubleshooting.
Key components: 16 programmable line/feature buttons, LCD display for line status, sidecar connection port, adjustable footstand.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Line/Feature Buttons | 16 buttons configurable as line appearances, speed dials, or feature access |
| LCD Display | Shows line status, extension numbers, and call information |
| Sidecar Connection | Connects to primary IP phone via dedicated cable |
| Power | Powered through primary phone; no separate power adapter needed |
| Network | Shares network connection of primary phone |
| Mounting Options | Desktop use with adjustable footstand or optional wall mount |
| Compatibility | Works with Cisco IP Phone 7940, 7960, 7970 series and compatible call control systems |
| Firmware Updates | Loaded automatically from primary phone or call server |
| Button LEDs | Indicate line state: off, steady green, flashing green, amber |
| Configuration | Configured via primary phone web interface or call server administration |
Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure primary phone is installed and powered.
WARNING! Use only Cisco-approved sidecar cable. Do not connect or disconnect cable while phones are powered on.
After physical installation, configure via primary phone or administration tool.
CAUTION! Configuration changes may require primary phone restart. Save any active call configurations first.
All configuration is done through the primary phone interface. The 7916 itself has no direct settings menu.
Button Functions: Each button can be configured as: Line appearance for an extension, Speed dial number, Feature key (Hold, Transfer, Conference, Forward, etc.), BLF (Busy Lamp Field) for monitoring extension status.
LED Indicators: Off: Line not configured or inactive. Steady green: Line idle and registered. Flashing green: Incoming call or active call on that line. Amber: Line on hold or remote line busy (BLF).
Configuration Methods: Web interface of primary phone, Call server administration (Cisco Unified Communications Manager), Automated via DHCP and TFTP with configuration files.
The 7916 must be connected to a compatible primary phone to function.
Tip: Maximum cable length is 6 feet (1.8 meters). Do not use extension cables.
Once configured, use the 7916 to manage multiple lines and features.
WARNING! Button functions depend on configuration. Consult your system administrator for specific mappings.
Advanced configuration is performed through the primary phone's web interface.
Note: Configuration options depend on call server type and firmware version.
Unplug primary phone from power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for display and housing. For stubborn stains, dampen cloth with water only; no solvents or abrasives.
CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on phone. Avoid getting moisture in openings.
FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. CE marked for European compliance. UL and CSA listed for safety. Copyright © Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.cisco.com or contact Cisco Technical Assistance Center.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| 7916 not powering on | Sidecar cable not connected properly | Power off primary phone, reseat cable at both ends, restart. |
| Buttons not responding | Configuration not loaded | Check primary phone web interface; ensure 7916 is configured and assigned. |
| LEDs not lighting correctly | Line/feature configuration issue | Verify button assignments in configuration; check call server registration. |
| Display blank or garbled | Connection issue or firmware | Reseat cable; ensure primary phone has correct firmware supporting 7916. |
| Cannot configure buttons | Administrative access | Verify login credentials for web interface; contact system administrator. |
| Primary phone doesn't detect 7916 | Incompatible phone or firmware | Verify primary phone model and firmware version supports 7916 expansion. |
Reset: Power cycle primary phone. For factory reset, consult primary phone documentation.
Service: Cisco Technical Assistance Center: 1-800-553-2447; www.cisco.com/support