What is a Fax Machine Drum?

Fax machines need a drum to function.

A fax drum cartridge is a revolving cylindrical apparatus within the fax machine. When an electronic document is received by the machine, toner mirroring the document is released onto the drum. This toner is then transferred to paper and printed.

Function

Fax machines scan documents on one end using a small photo receptor. The scanned image is then changed into electronic pulses. These are passed along a phone or Internet connection to the intended site where they are translated back into the original image and printed.

Warning

The toner used in fax machines is considered to be a carcinogenic hazardous waste. When working on a fax machine, or changing the fax machine drum, care should be taken to avoid breathing in powder from the toner.

Developments

Historically, fax machine drums have been long-lived, but have eventually needed replacing. However, drums are now available which are permanent imaging devices, allowing a more ecological office space, while saving money.

References

• Global Kyocera: Imaging Devices
• Reviews Cnet: Fax Drum Cartridge, 20,000 Page Yield