![]() |
Fax Machines |
Information on selecting the right fax for the job!
When looking for a fax machine, consider quality, price and special features.
If you need to send faxes but not receive them, consider a fax modem as an
alternative.
Steps:
1. Determine the type of machine you want. Choose a film-cartridge fax
machine to get mediocre print quality. Look for an ink-jet fax machine to get
better print quality for a slightly higher price but the highest cost of use.
Buy a laser fax machine for good print quality if you can afford to pay more. If
you'll receive a lot of faxes, the higher purchase price will quickly be offset
by the lower cost of use.
2. Look for machines with four choices for image quality.
3. Make sure the machine can print 64 shades of gray if you'll be receiving and
copying both text and images. Color-capable machines are also available, but
they're expensive.
4. Figure out how many speed-dial numbers you'll need, if any.
5. Decide whether you need an integrated digital answering machine.
6. Compare each model's capacity for feeding multiple pages, storing received
faxes when the machine is out of paper and 'broadcast' faxing to a group of
recipients.
7. Evaluate how easy the machine is to use.
8. Look for advanced business features, if necessary, such as delayed
transmission, the ability to 'poll' other fax machines, copy reduction and
enlargement, and 'shrink to fit' 8 1 /2-by-11-inch pages.
9. Budget for everything you'll need, such as paper, extra cartridges, a surge
suppressor and a service contract.
10. Consider service contracts offered by the dealer if they include maintenance
and loaner privileges and cover normal wear.
11. Base your final decision on functionality and initial and ongoing costs.
Tips:
You typically don't need to get a separate phone line (the fax or an
attached answering machine may be able to tell incoming faxes from voice calls,
or the sender can input a fax-activation code), but an extra line is convenient
if you're doing a lot of faxing.
Be sure to budget for consumable items, such as paper and cartridges or ink.
A film cartridge typically produces 357 pages. Divide cartridge price by number
of pages to figure out the cost per page.
Toner cartridges for laser fax machines can produce up to several thousand
pages, depending on the brand and model.
For current pricing and to buy now click here.