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How can I fax without a fax machine?

15 years ago

I heard someone say recently that they don't understand why anyone would ever use a fax machine when they can do it so easily via the internet. We'll be moving in the next months and I'd like to be able have a smaller computer desk so would like to be able to send faxes without the fax machine. I did a search and found that fax capability is included in Win XP. Per the instructions, I went into the Control Panel, Add Remove Programs, Add/Remove Windows Components and checked the Fax box. A window popped up and asked me to insert my Windows XP Professional CD ROM and I don't have one of those (that I can find). I don't recall one coming with my HP Pavilion, but it's years old so I'm not sure. Can I get the needed files online?

Or....is there an option that's inexpensive and easy to install? Thanks as always.

Pam

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Comments (4)

ravencajun Zone 8b TX
15 years ago
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kudzu9
15 years ago
pfmastin-
If you are trying to fax original documents that do not exist on your computer, what device are you planning to use to create a digital image?
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I agree Mikie. But faxes are alive and well. My DH has to fax a time sheet everyday. His co-workers all fill their time sheets out by hand and fax early in the morning from the office. But I put DH's time sheet in our home computer and fill it out that way. It's much neater and then I fax it from our computer. Maybe I will contact the payroll dept and ask if they would accept it by e-mail. Sure would be easier for us!
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As with any kind of printing device you really need to consider the total cost of ownership. Thermal fax machines are likely to be the cheapest to buy but the paper is expensive (and tends to curl plus is temperature sensitive). Any kind of inkjet will use plain paper but the cost per page will be higher than a laser. So it really depends on how you will be using it. If you're in a situation where you need a new printer, you might consider an all-in-one machine. For very light use you might consider something used (try Craig's List).
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It's hard to make a recommendation without knowing more about what your fax needs are. If this is going to be a low-use, personal fax machine then either one would probably work. But if it's going to be used in a high-volume mission critical business application, then I'd want something more than a consumer-grade fax. Will this fax be on a dedicated line or will you be using it on an existing voice line? Will you be the only user of this fax? Which do you do more of, SEND fax or RECEIVE fax? (or do you do both equally?) For myself, I send far more than I receive and find it much more convenient to scan hardcopy into my computer and fax it directly from there through my Officejet 4500. It's much easier than hoping that multiple pages go through the document feeder without getting jammed up.
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Thanks Bob - I tried that today and it didn't work - I found on the software website how to save the file and thereby create a file with .fax extension. However, following the steps as outlined in the software instructions, it didn't work. I did find that if I wanted to pay $60 I would get the 'professional' upgrade and - guess what, the buyer has the capabilities to modify the cover sheets! I'm still going to play around with it, maybe I will find something that will work. I do have an idea of incorporating my own personal cover sheet as a second page, I usually create PDF's and fax them (my first preference is to email them but that is not always posible), so that would work. Pat
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pfmastin
Original Author
15 years ago
Thank you, Raven. I'll follow your links. Kudzu9, I have a scanner. Also, most of the things I fax are invoices that are emailed in .pdf format to me from my employer. Thank you both very much!
Pam
owbist
15 years ago
If you have a desktop computer you no doubt need a modem installed, very few come with a modem anymore. BE AWARE that if you buy a modem, they used be quite cheap, be sure to get the correct drivers for the model modem you buy.

Modems are very simple to install, you shut down, remove the power cord, remoe the left side. Then look for the slot it will use and remove the metal strip on the case back, pop the modem in pressing down firmly to seat it properly. Use the screw that hopefully came with the modem to fasten the plate to the case. Replace the side panel, plug in and install the drivers.

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