A:AnswerI don't have this phone, but the answer is obvious. Just turn off the answering machine. The phone will ring until either you answer it or the caller gives up.
A:AnswerNot sure what "ear piece" is but I will take a shot. Sounds as if you are unable to hear anything on the phone. If that is the case I would take the time to get the book out and go to the place where it tells you how to adjust the volume. If that doesn't work call AT*&T. They may be able to assist in correcting the problem or make the call that there is a problem and you need a replacement phone. I would expect them to replace a bad hand set with little if any questions asked.....