Introduction to Fax (Facsimile)
What is a Fax?
A fax (short for facsimile) is a method of sending and receiving printed documents over a telephone line.
How It Works:
A document is scanned and converted into a digital signal, transmitted to a fax machine, and then printed out at the receiving end.
Key Features:
- Document Transfer: Enables the transmission of written or printed material quickly.
- Real-Time Sending: Allows for immediate delivery of documents.
Benefits:
- Secure: More secure than email for certain types of documents.
- Widely Accepted: Still commonly used in business, healthcare, and legal sectors.
Considerations:
- Quality: The clarity of faxed documents can vary, and images may not always be clear.
- Obsolescence: With the rise of digital communication methods, fax usage has declined.
Notes:
Fax machines facilitate the quick transfer of printed documents over phone lines, offering a secure option for document transmission, although their popularity has decreased with modern digital alternatives.