Fax Software

by Matt Gerchow

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An integrated fax program simply referred to as fax software is used to send and receive faxes through a computer. It basically emulates the functions of the conventional fax machine without the need for the actual device.

With a telephone line and a fax modem, this software application for sending and receiving fax messages works like the typical fax machine with more features to offer. The software application itself is just a small piece of code that requires only about 15 MB of storage.

Standard screen resolutions of at least 800 by 600 are enough to run the program with working compatibilities on different operating systems especially Windows. Just like the classic fax machine, the program requires a standard telephone service to connect to the telecommunications system.

For the digital signal from the computer be transmitted to the analog telephone service, a standard dialup-type fax modem is essentially required. Once set up, the fax software is integrated into the printing module of the operating system.

Thus, any computer program capable of printing files can virtually send fax documents. For instance, a particular letter may be sent right from the Microsoft Word application by simply printing the document virtually through the fax printing module.

The computer then prompts the user for the fax number to be entered, and the sending process is initiated. A stand-alone application may also be launched for sending or receiving fax documents.

When this option is chosen, users would simply attach the document to be transmitted. If receiving documents, then copies are received as image files which can be converted to editable text using optical character recognition software.

Fax software is more convenient to use than traditional fax machines. Aside from eliminating the need for a separate electronic device, the software application allows for paperless communication as well as recording of transmission activity.