How to Set Up a Microsoft Fax

Windows 7 or Vista computers can send and receive faxes just like a stand-alone fax machine.

With the addition of an external modem connected to a regular phone line, your Windows 7 or Vista computer can be set up to scan documents and pictures, and send and receive faxes just like a stand-alone fax machine. Windows Fax and Scan's ability to convert documents and files to images using a ".tif" file extension makes it possible for you to send faxes to dedicated fax machines and other computers equipped with fax programs.

Things You'll Need

• • A fax modem (either internal or external).
• • An analog (regular) phone line connection.

Instructions

1. Click "Start > All Programs > Windows Fax and Scan" after making sure your fax modem is installed correctly to your machine and connected to a regular (analog) phone line.

2. Click the "Fax" button, located at the bottom of the left menu, and click "New Fax" from the toolbar at the top of the window in order to launch the "Fax Setup wizard."

3. Click "Connect to a fax modem" and follow the sequence of instructions that allows Windows to locate and connect to your modem.

4. Click "Tools > Fax Settings" to set up the program. Under the "General" tab, check the box to "Allow device to receive fax calls" and "Allow device to send fax calls."

5. Click "Automatically answer after X rings," and enter the number of rings you'd like the program to wait before kicking in, if you'd like the program to function automatically. Click "OK."

6. Click "Manually answer" if you'd like to manipulate the program yourself. Click "OK." If you are expecting a fax when the phone rings, click "Start > All Programs > Windows Fax and Scan > Fax > Receive a Fax Now" to accept the call as a fax transmission.

7. Monitor the progress of a fax by adjusting settings under the "Tracking" tab. Set redial rules under the "Advanced" tab, and set access rights for various users under the "Security" tab.

Tips & Warnings

• Windows Fax and Scan includes a tool that can design custom-made cover pages. (See Reference 3)

• Set other preferences by clicking "Tools > Options." If you'd like your PC to play a sound when a new fax arrives, click the box under the "General" tab. Set delivery receipt preferences under the "Receipts" tab. Include the original fax in your reply by clicking the appropriate box under the "Send" tab. Set font preferences under the "Compose" tab. Click "Apply" when you are done. (See Reference 4)

References

• Windows: Faxing: Frequently Asked Questions
• Windows: Set Up Your Computer to Send and Receive Faxes
• Windows: Windows Fax and Scan
• Windows: Receive a Fax with Windows Fax and Scan

Resources

• Windows: Troubleshoot fax problems