How To Choose a Plain Paper Fax Machine

Most generic fax machines are plain paper fax machines; specialty models are available for specific purposes such as faxing legal documents or bulk printing and faxing of reports, etc. When it comes to choosing a plain paper fax machine, your requirements are what matter. To help facilitate your choice, read through the helpful tips discussed in this article.

Fax requirements

• Volume of fax activity expected, both sending and receiving
• Single telephone line for fax only or for fax plus voice calls or multiple phone lines in the same machine
• Color or b/w faxing, standard or laser printing
• Standalone fax machine or an integrated system which will include a photocopier, scanner, printer, etc.
• Advanced features such as speed dial, voice mail or answering machine, delayed-transmission facility (sending at non-peak hours when call rates are lower), sending multiple faxes in bulk to different numbers, etc.

These are some of the requirements users look for or features that are available in different brands and models. It is preferable to have a comprehensive list of your requirements before checking out the availability. If you have a small office or work out of a home office, then it makes sense to buy a multi-function integrated machine rather than buying standalone copier, printer and fax machine; these will take up too much space.

Another important consideration is the volume of faxes you expect to send or receive. For high volumes, it makes sense to get a fax machine that has 3 or more paper trays or a fax machine with two or more lines for faxing the same documents to multiple recipients simultaneously.

Of course, your budget is an important consideration and also whether you are ‘brand-conscious’. Other factors that will play an important role in making the right selection are warranties, after-sales service and maintenance, cost of consumables and replacement parts.

Making your selection

1. Check with family, friends and business associates for their choices and recommendations.
2. Browse online by companies, models or brand names. You can also check out used equipment sites if your fax needs are very basic.
3. Retail electronic stores in your city.

The information mentioned in this article should definitely help you choose the right plain paper fax machine! Happy buying!