[hsmomx3]

Thank you all, so much.

[b4its2late]

Computers still have modems?

[Yo-Yo]

If I’m not mistaken, you need fax software to go with your fax modem.

[Blood of Tyrants]

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

[txroadkill]

http://www.ehow.com/how_8467_send-fax-computer.html

 

[AppyPappy]

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.

[LADY J]

If you bought it locally - take it to the store where you bought it & let them show you.

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.

[Little Pig]

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).

[Yo-Yo]

It appears that Windows Vista Home Premium does not have fax software included. These folks seem to recommend RKS fax software.

[Brookhaven]

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.

[bcsco]

This might lead you in the right direction...you're not alone with this: Conexant D850 PCI V.92 Modem. Be sure to read it all.

[justlurking]

You should have a "Fax" device in your list of printers.

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.

[right way right]

Do you have a Fax machine?

[fso301]

In the Control Panel -> Performance and Maintenance -> System -> Hardware -> Device Manager, check to see that a modem is listed in the hardware list and is working ok.

Also make sure you have the necessary drivers installed. A driver disk may have come with your PC. If not, you can get modem drivers from the Dell website.

[SouthernBoyupNorth]

first problem is its a Dell.
Second I can guarantee the drivers are out of date because its a dell.
Third there may be a phone jack and an Ethernet port in your computer. Make sure you plugged into the right one

[justlurking]

I forgot to add: you simply plug your phone line into the computer. Look for an RJ-11 socket, which matches the size of the plug for your phone.

Don't try to use the RJ-45 socket, which is for an Ethernet cable. A phone-line plug will fit into this one, but there will be a gap on the side.

I don't know which Inspiron you have. Follow-up with the model, and I'll look at the website and give you a hint where to look. Some of the models don't have a modem port at all, and you may have an adapter cable that you must use.

[papasmurf]

Is this Windows? Which version Vista or Xp or?

[AFreeBird]

Is it plugged in? Is your computer on - Are you logged in?

Sorry FReeper humor.

Did you install the software for the modem? I know Dell should have it all set up for you, but.... You may also have to go into the "Control Panel" and set it up.

[mass55th]

If it’s new, can’t you simply call Dell support?

[ken in texas]

What Operating System are you using? XP? Vista?

Sometimes you need to go into something like Control Panel / System to double check what is actually installed. If you don't currently have a FAX writer installed, you will need to do that.

But that's just my humble opinion... haven't read all the responses in this thread. Getting a FAX to work in Windows can be interesting, but it can also be done.

[AustinBill]

Also check out services like FaxZero if you only have occasional need for faxing. As others have mentioned fax is pretty long in the tooth these days.