How to Troubleshoot a Lexmark Fax Machine

Lexmark fax machines can come as either stand-alone devices or as part of an all-in-one or multi-function printer. The fax machine requires that you have a working phone line to send and receive faxes, as well as one or more print cartridges filled with ink. The fax machine displays error messages on the display screen if the machine detects a problem.

Instructions

Will Not Send or Receive

1. Check the Lexmark fax machine's display screen for any error messages. If a message is displaying, work to resolve the error before continuing.

2. Look at the Lexmark fax machine's "Power" light to make sure it is illuminated, indicating the machine is turned on. If the light is not on, check the power cord's connection to the machine as well as the electrical outlet to make sure it has not come loose.

3. Move the Lexmark fax machine's power cord to an electrical outlet that has been working with another device or appliance. Check the phone line connection to the machine and the phone jack to make sure it is secure.

4. Plug a single-line telephone into the phone jack and listen for a dial tone. If you hear nothing, contact the phone company to resolve the situation.

5. Plug the Lexmark fax machine's telephone cord into a DSL filter or other adapter if you are using a digital phone service. If you are unsure if you need to use a filter or adapter, contact your phone service provider for assistance.

6. Pull up on the Lexmark fax machine's top cover to look at the inside of the machine and check the input and output trays for any jammed pieces of paper. Remove the paper and try sending or receiving faxes again.

Received Faxes Print Poorly

1. Compare the quality of the original document to the quality of the printout, if possible. Try sending the fax again to see if there was a problem with the transmission process.

2. Check the Lexmark fax machine's ink levels by pressing the "Menu" button on the control panel. Use the arrow keys to select "Check Ink Levels."

3. Decrease the Lexmark fax machine's transmission speed by pressing the "Maintenance" button on the control panel, then use the arrow buttons to select "Fax Setup." Select "Dialing and Sending" from the next menu and select "Max Send Speed," then press the "Down" arrow button to select a lower transmission speed.

4. Adjust the "Fax Send" speed to an even lower setting if the problem continues.

References

• Lexmark: 5600-6600 User's Manual