Avaya IP Phone J179 Manual

The Avaya J179 is a business-grade IP desk phone featuring a color display, support for up to 12 programmable line/feature keys, integrated Gigabit Ethernet, Power over Ethernet (PoE), HD Voice, and compatibility with Avaya IP Office and Aura Communication Manager platforms. It supports SIP and H.323 protocols, includes a built-in headset port, and offers advanced telephony features like call forwarding, conferencing, and directory access. Below are key sections for setup, features, configuration, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Configuration 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Interface 6. Connecting to Network 7. Making & Managing Calls 8. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Color LCD display, 12 programmable line/feature keys, navigation cluster, speakerphone, handset, Ethernet ports, headset port.

FeatureDescription
Display3.5-inch color graphical LCD with backlight
Line/Feature Keys12 programmable keys with dual-color LEDs
NetworkingDual Gigabit Ethernet ports (LAN/PoE, PC)
AudioHD Voice wideband audio, built-in speakerphone
Headset Port3.5mm jack for wired headset connectivity
ProtocolsSIP and H.323 support
PowerPower over Ethernet (PoE) or external power adapter
ConferenceBuilt-in 3-party audio conferencing
DirectoryLocal and corporate directory access
Volume ControlsDedicated buttons for handset, speaker, ringer

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Place on stable desk surface.

  1. Connect to network: Use Ethernet cable from switch/router to LAN/PoE port on phone.
  2. Connect PC (optional): Use second Ethernet cable from PC port to computer.
  3. Connect handset: Plug coiled handset cord into handset jack.
  4. Power on: Phone will boot via PoE or external power adapter.

WARNING! Use only approved power adapter. Ensure network cable is securely connected.

First-Time Configuration

Phone boots and attempts to obtain IP address from DHCP server.

  1. Check network registration: Press Settings button, navigate to Status > Network to verify IP address.
  2. Configure extension: Enter SIP credentials or extension number as provided by system administrator.
  3. Set preferences: Adjust ringer type, volume, display contrast, and time format via Settings menu.
  4. Program keys: Assign line appearances, speed dials, or features to programmable keys.

CAUTION! Configuration changes may require administrator access. Do not unplug during boot.

Specifications

Controls and Interface

Access features via physical buttons and on-screen menus. Front Panel: Mute, Headset, Speakerphone, Volume controls, Navigation cluster, Hold, Conference, Transfer.

Programmable Keys: Can be configured as line appearances, speed dials, feature keys (e.g., Call Forward, Voicemail).

Settings Menu: Network configuration, Audio settings (ringer, volume), Display settings (contrast, backlight), Time/Date, User Preferences. Features: Call Log (Missed, Received, Dialed), Directory (Local/Corporate), Self-Test diagnostics.

Connecting to Network

LAN/PoE port: Connects to network switch. PC port: Pass-through to computer.

  1. Ensure switch supports PoE (802.3af) or use external power adapter.
  2. Use standard CAT5e or higher Ethernet cable.
  3. Verify link status via LED on phone (steady green indicates active connection).
  4. For PC connection, phone acts as a network bridge; configure PC for DHCP or static IP as needed.

Tip: Use LLDP-MED for automatic VLAN and QoS configuration if supported by network.

Making & Managing Calls

Supports basic and advanced call handling features.

  1. Make call: Lift handset or press Speakerphone, dial number, press Dial softkey or #.
  2. Answer call: Press Answer softkey, lift handset, or press Speakerphone.
  3. Hold: Press Hold button during active call.
  4. Transfer: Press Transfer, dial target number, press Transfer again to complete.
  5. Conference: Press Conference during active call, dial third party, press Conference again to merge.
  6. Call Forward: Press CFwdAll softkey, enter destination number.
  7. Voicemail: Press Messages key or dial voicemail access number.

WARNING! Emergency calls may require direct dialing; verify with local regulations.

Advanced Features

Speed Dial: Program frequently dialed numbers to programmable keys. Directory: Access local phonebook and corporate LDAP directory. Call Logs: View missed, received, and dialed calls. Self-Test: Run diagnostics via Settings > Diagnostics. BLF (Busy Lamp Field): Monitor status of other extensions if configured.

Care & Maintenance

Unplug power before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth for display and housing. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.

CAUTION! Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, or direct sunlight.

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 © Avaya Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit support.avaya.com or contact your authorized Avaya partner.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No power/displayPower sourceCheck PoE switch or power adapter connection; verify cable.
No network registrationNetwork/DHCPCheck Ethernet cable; verify DHCP server; confirm VLAN settings.
No audio on callsAudio settings/connectionsAdjust volume; check handset cord; verify codec configuration.
Keys not respondingPhone lock/softwareUnlock phone (press * then 1234); restart phone.
Poor call qualityNetwork QoSEnable QoS on network; check for bandwidth congestion.

Reset: Press * # * # during boot for factory reset (erases all settings).

Service: Contact Avaya support or authorized service provider.

Avaya IP Phone J179 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025