How to Buy a Black-and-White Fax Machine

Fax machines come with numerous features but some buyers only want the basics. Follow these steps to narrow your choices if you're purchasing a black-and-white fax model.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Internet access
• Computer

1. Decide what features you need. Do you want a fast machine, or one that can fax in large volume? Do you need a built-in scanner or a copier?

2. Research your choices online. You can gather the most information in the shortest time by reading product reviews and forums on the Internet.

3. Narrow your choices to the two or three machines that best fit your needs.

4. Comparison shop. Visit several online retailers and examine their prices. Also, search local newspapers for sales and prices at nearby stores. Choose the model that comes the closest to fulfilling your requirements.

5. Set up your new black-and-white fax machine and test-drive it. Always follow the installation instructions in the owner's manual.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the machine you choose carries all the options that you need.
• Save the original packaging so that you can return the machine if something goes awry.
• Carefully read the instructions before installing the machine.