Posted on 09/10/2009 10:40:21 AM PDT by hsmomx3
We just got a new Dell Inspiron computer which has an internal modem for faxing but I am unable to make this work. I have no instructions as to how to hook up the phone line and I cannot seem to get a "fax" option when I hit the print option after typing a document.
The modem is: Conexant D850 PCI V 92 Modem
Attached to COM 3
I called Dell and they said I would need to pay someone over there to explain it to me. Of course I refused as I felt I do not need to pay, this is a new computer!
Any help would be appreciated. I am not tech savvy, either.
Computers still have modems?
If I’m not mistaken, you need fax software to go with your fax modem.
Do you have a faxing program?
orIf the document is in Word or pfd format you can fax three pages for free at faxzero.com
Apparently not because our old printer had a fax machine but Dell said it was no longer compatible with the newer computers. He said they could put a modem in the computer at no extra charge and I said yes.
Thanks, I was not aware of that. I appreciate this.
Faxing? People still do that?
There should be faxing software installed. I’m confused about what you mean by hooking up the phone line. You just plug it in.
Google your question and check into one of the many tech-support forums on the net. It’ll take a little digging, but you’ll eventually find a place where all of the posters are asking the same question you did. Good luck!
If that doesn't work return it and buy another one that will work for you. If you charged it on a credit card - other than a Dell card - make a complaint to the credit card company.
That is exactly how I did a lot of my faxing but that option does not come up when I hit the print button.
The phone line should just plug in, though the port may be hidden behind a door on the laptop. Also, Windows has faxing capability built in. You may have to put your system disc in the laptop, and then go to control panel -> Add and Remove Programs -> Add Windows Components and find the fax component (I forget exactly where it is in there).
Yes, I did that and did that modem test and it said the test failed. Maybe I do not have the phone line plugged into the right outlet (?) on the back of the computer which I thought I did since it shows a phone. Weird.
Did it come with any faxing software? You need a faxing application (just like you need Outlook as your e-mail application.)
It has been a number of years since I have used a fax via a modem, but if you install the right application software it will auto detect the fax modem for you. The setup is pretty much brain dead.
I’m thinking something like WinFax, but it has been so long since I have used fax software, I’m sure something new and better has come along.
Well, you can see if there is one anyway. Hit the start button, then my computer. Then click on View System information, go to the hardware tab, and then click on device manager, and it will show you all the hardware in your pc. That’s a start.
“Apparently not because our old printer had a fax machine but Dell said it was no longer compatible with the newer computers”
Are you sure they didn’t say “supported” rather than “compatible”? It may work unless you don’t have a parallel port. Some new motherboards do not have parallel ports. That can be adapted for about $10
By default, you are probably printing to a real printer. Instead, change the print device to the FAX.
The opportunity will present itself after you actually try to print from whatever application you are using.
Do you have a Fax machine?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.