Cisco Telephone 8851 Instruction Manual

The Cisco IP Phone 8851 is a full-featured business VoIP telephone supporting high-definition voice, a color display, programmable line/feature keys, and Power over Ethernet (PoE). It integrates with Cisco Unified Communications Manager for enterprise-grade calling, messaging, and collaboration. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Using Phone Features 8. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Color LCD display, Handset, Speakerphone, Programmable line/feature keys, Navigation cluster, Volume rocker, Headset port, Ethernet ports.

FeatureDescription
Display5-inch color LCD with backlight
AudioHD Voice, built-in speakerphone, headset support
NetworkDual Gigabit Ethernet ports (PC pass-through), PoE (802.3af)
Programmable KeysUp to 4 line/feature keys for speed dial, call functions
HandsetWideband capable for high-definition audio
PowerPower over Ethernet or optional external power adapter
ConferenceBuilt-in support for multi-party conferencing
SecurityEncrypted signaling and media (SRTP, TLS)
Headset Port3.5mm jack for wired headset connection
Navigation Cluster5-way navigation for menu access and call control

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable surface.

  1. Connect to network: Plug Ethernet cable from switch into NETWORK port on phone.
  2. Connect PC (optional): Use PC port to connect computer for network pass-through.
  3. Connect handset: Plug coiled handset cord into HANDSET port.
  4. Power the phone: Use PoE from switch or connect external power adapter.

WARNING! Use only approved power sources. Ensure network cables are securely connected.

First-Time Setup

Phone boots and registers with Cisco Unified Communications Manager.

  1. Initial boot: Phone obtains IP address and downloads configuration.
  2. Verify registration: Check for extension number on display.
  3. Set preferences: Use Settings menu to configure language, time format, ringtones.
  4. Program keys: Assign speed dial or feature keys via phone web interface or CUCM.

CAUTION! Do not unplug during firmware upgrade. Allow process to complete.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menus via NAVIGATION cluster. Front buttons: MESSAGES, DIRECTORY, HELP, SETTINGS, APPLICATIONS.

Basic Controls: Handset lift for call answer/end, SPEAKER button for speakerphone, MUTE button, VOLUME rocker, HEADSET button.

Settings: Language, Time Format (12/24 hr), Screen Contrast, Ringtone Selection, Network Configuration (via web interface). Phone Features: Call Forward, Do Not Disturb, Conference, Transfer, Hold, Park.

Connecting Devices

Network: NETWORK port to switch. PC: PC port to computer. Headset: 3.5mm jack.

  1. Turn off devices before connecting cables.
  2. Match cables to correct ports (Ethernet to NETWORK).
  3. For headset, plug into 3.5mm jack and press HEADSET button to activate.

Tip: Use Cat5e or higher Ethernet cables for optimal performance.

Using Phone Features

Supports basic and advanced telephony features.

  1. Make call: Lift handset or press SPEAKER, dial number, press Dial softkey.
  2. Answer call: Lift handset, press SPEAKER, or press Answer softkey.
  3. Hold: Press HOLD button during active call.
  4. Transfer: Press TRANSFER, dial target number, press Transfer again.
  5. Conference: Press CONFERENCE during call, dial second party, press Conference again.
  6. Call Forward: Press CFwdALL softkey, enter destination number.
  7. Voicemail: Press MESSAGES button to access.
  8. Directory: Press DIRECTORY to view corporate or personal contacts.

WARNING! Do not expose phone to liquids. Keep vents clear for cooling.

Accessibility Features

Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC): Handset meets FCC requirements. Visual Alerts: Flashing LED for incoming calls. Audio Adjustments: Separate volume controls for handset, speaker, ringer.

Care & Cleaning

Unplug power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth; mild detergent if needed. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not spray liquids directly on phone. Keep away from extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class A digital device; complies with limits for business environments. CE Mark: Conforms to European EMC and safety directives. Copyright © 2025 Cisco Systems, Inc. For support, visit www.cisco.com/support or contact Cisco Technical Assistance Center.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerPoE/Power adapterCheck Ethernet cable; verify switch PoE enabled; try external power adapter.
No network registrationNetwork/DHCPCheck cable connections; verify DHCP server reachable; restart phone.
No audioVolume/MuteAdjust volume; check MUTE status; verify handset cord connected.
Display blankBacklight/PowerPress any key to wake; check power source; adjust contrast in settings.
Calls not completingConfigurationVerify dial plan; check CUCM configuration; contact administrator.

Reset: Press and hold # key during boot for factory reset (erases configuration).

Service: Contact network administrator or Cisco TAC: 1-800-553-2447.

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