Fax Machines

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It is actually an old device as electronics go; the first proto-fax machine was invented over 150 years ago. It wasn't until the electronics revolution of the 1970s that the first commercially viable fax made its appearance.

Combining scanner, modem, telephone and printer into a single operating unit, faxes scan text or photos and transmit them via telephone line. The Internet has not severely decreased fax machine use; especially when signed documents are required, a fax machine can still be faster than processing and emailing via computer; although some computers now have telephone hookups and a fax modem.

Options include dedicated fax machines and multifunction fax machines. The dedicated or stand-alone fax is just a fax machine (although it does also work as a telephone). The multifunction fax machine, also called an all-in-one-printer or printer fax, combines a fax with a scanner, a printer and a copier. (Of course, if you want a room full of electronics, Overstock.com will happily sell you one of each--buy them together and save a boatload on the shipping!)

Depending on your budget and fax volume, you can choose between inkjet and laser fax machines. An inkjet fax is less expensive but quite suited to the low-volume user. A laser fax machine has a higher up-front cost, but requires little maintenance and is the choice for high volume fax traffic.

For those who love "bells and whistles," some fax machine models offer speed dialing, broadcasting, fax forwarding, caller ID, a large paper tray (sometimes two), letter and legal pages, USB connectability, and the occasional extended warranty.

Email is a great if you send data files, but faxes are still the fastest way to transmit hard copy--like documents that need to be routed to several people for review and signature--and fax machines are best purchased at Overstock.com, where low price and quality customer service are always certain.