When did the fax machine come out? The fax machine, a device that was once a staple in offices around the world, had a significant impact on communication in the 20th century. Before the rise of email and other digital forms of communication, the fax machine was the go-to method for quickly sending documents and messages. But when exactly did the fax machines come out, and how did it evolve over time?
In this article, we will explore the history of the fax machines, from its invention to its decline in usage, and reflect on its lasting impact on communication technology.
The Invention of the Fax Machine
The concept of the fax machines dates back to the 19th century, when Scottish inventor Alexander Bain developed a prototype for a device called the “electric printing telegraph.” This early fax machines used a series of rotating cylinders and synchronized clock mechanisms to scan and transmit images over telegraph lines.
However, it wasn’t until the late 1960s that the modern fax machines as we know it today began to take shape. Xerox Corporation engineer John E. McDonald invented the first commercially successful fax machine, which used a combination of analog and digital technology to convert documents into electronic signals for transmission over telephone lines.
The Rise of the Fax Machine
Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the fax machines gained popularity as a convenient and efficient way to send and receive documents. Businesses, government agencies, and individuals quickly adopted fax machines as a crucial tool for communication, replacing slower and more cumbersome methods such as mail and courier services.
The fax machines’s ability to transmit documents quickly and accurately made it an indispensable tool for businesses, especially in industries that relied heavily on paper-based communication, such as law, finance, and healthcare. Furthermore, the introduction of computer-based fax servers and fax modems in the 1980s made it even easier for users to send and receive faxes directly from their computers.
The Decline of the Fax Machine
Despite its widespread use in the 20th century, the fax machines began to decline in popularity in the 21st century with the rise of digital communication technologies. Email, instant messaging, and file-sharing services made it easier and more convenient to send and receive documents electronically, reducing the need for fax machines.
Furthermore, advancements in scanning technology and document management systems allowed businesses to digitize and store documents without the need for physical copies. As a result, the use of fax machines steadily declined, and many businesses and individuals began to phase out their fax machines in favor of more modern communication tools.
The Legacy of the Fax Machine
Even though the fax machines is no longer as prevalent as it once was, its impact on communication technology is undeniable. The concept of transmitting documents and images over telephone lines laid the groundwork for many modern technologies, including digital imaging, document scanning, and electronic signatures.
Additionally, the fax machines played a crucial role in shaping the way businesses and individuals communicate, helping to streamline document delivery and increase the speed of information exchange. Its legacy lives on in the digital communication tools and technologies that we use today, demonstrating the lasting impact of this once revolutionary device.
How to use fax machine
Fax machines have been a staple of office communication for decades, allowing users to send and receive documents quickly and conveniently. While modern technology has given us new ways to send and receive information, fax machines continue to be an essential tool in many businesses and organizations.
Setting up the Fax Machine
Before you can start using a fax machine, you will need to set it up properly. Follow these steps to get your fax machine ready for use:
- Power on the fax machine by plugging it into an electrical outlet and pressing the power button.
- Connect the fax machine to a phone line using a standard phone cable. This will allow the fax machine to send and receive faxes through the phone line.
- Check the display or control panel of the fax machines for any prompts to set the date, time, and other basic settings. Follow the instructions to complete the initial setup.
- Load paper into the fax machine’s paper tray. Make sure the paper is aligned properly and that the tray is not overfilled.
- If your fax machines requires ink or toner, install the appropriate cartridge according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Sending a Fax
Once your fax machine is set up, you can start sending faxes to other fax machines or fax numbers. Here’s how to do it:
- Prepare the document you want to fax. If it is a physical document, place it in the fax machine’s document feeder or on the glass scanner, depending on the model of your fax machines.
- Dial the recipient’s fax number using the fax machine’s keypad. If you are sending the fax to an external number (outside of your office or organization), you may need to dial a “1” or another dialing prefix before the fax number.
- Once the recipient’s fax number is dialed, press the “Send” or “Start” button on the fax machine to begin transmitting the document. The fax machines will use the phone line to establish a connection with the recipient’s fax machine and send the document.
- Wait for the fax machine to complete the transmission. The display or indicator lights on the fax machine will typically show the progress of the transmission, including the number of pages being sent and any errors that may occur.
Receiving a Fax
When someone wants to send you a fax, they will dial your fax number and transmit the document to your fax machine. Here’s what to do on your end:
- Keep your fax machine turned on and connected to a working phone line so that it can receive incoming faxes. Some fax machines have a “Receive Mode” setting that allows you to specify how incoming faxes are handled (e.g., automatically answered after a certain number of rings).
- When an incoming fax is detected, the fax machine will automatically answer the call and begin receiving the document. You may hear the fax machine’s internal components working as it receives the fax.
- Once the fax is fully received, the machine will typically print out a copy of the document. You can then retrieve the faxed document from the output tray and review its contents.
- If the fax machine has a memory feature, it may store received faxes in its memory for later printing or viewing. Check the fax machine’s manual for instructions on accessing and managing received faxes in the memory.
Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Like any office equipment, fax machines may encounter issues from time to time. Here are some common troubleshooting tips and maintenance tasks for keeping your fax machine in good working order:
Paper Jams:
If the fax machine encounters a paper jam, carefully remove the jammed paper from the machine’s interior. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for clearing paper jams to prevent damage to the machine.
Ink or Toner Replacement:
When the print quality of your faxes begins to deteriorate, it may be time to replace the ink or toner cartridge. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for replacing cartridges and disposing of used ones properly.
Phone Line Issues:
If you are having trouble sending or receiving faxes, check the phone line connection and make sure that it is working properly. You may need to contact your phone service provider to address any line quality issues.
Cleaning:
Periodically clean the interior and exterior of the fax machine to remove dust, dirt, and debris that may affect its performance. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and non-abrasive cleaning solution to wipe down the machine.
In conclusion
The fax machine has a rich history that spans over a century, from its early prototypes in the 19th century to its widespread use in the 20th century and eventual decline in the 21st century. While its popularity has waned, the fax machine’s impact on communication technology remains significant, and its legacy continues to shape the way we communicate in the digital age.
