How to Get a Fax Machine to Receive Data With an Answering Machine

Fax machines and answering machines can work on a single phone line.

When you have a fax machine connected to the same line as your answering machine, you may not receive inbound data because the answering machine picks up the line first. If you have both devices connected to the same line, you must set the fax machine to "Manual," so that the answering machine can still operate on the same line.

Instructions

1. Ensure that your fax machine and answering machine are powered on. The answering machine should be connected to the wall jack, and the fax machine should be connected to the empty port in the back of the answering machine.

2. Set your fax to the "Manual" setting. The process for doing so will vary depending on your fax machine. For example, on the Brother IntelliFax-2800, press "Receive Mode" and select "Manual."

3. Test the fax machine by having someone send a test fax. Press "Start" to accept the fax manually.

4. Test the answering machine by having someone call you. Do not answer the phone. Wait for the answering machine to pick up.

References

• Brother: IntelliFax-2800