Fax, short for “facsimile,” is a technology that allows for the transmission of scanned printed material, which can include both text and images, from one location to another via telecommunication links. In both noun and verb forms, it can refer to the device used, the act of sending the information, or the transmitted document itself.
Definition
Noun
In this form, a fax is:
- The device used to send or receive documents electronically through a telephone network.
- The document that has been sent via a fax machine or fax service.
Verb
As a verb, to fax means:
- To send a document electronically using a fax machine or fax service.
- The act of sending such a document.
Historical Context
Origins
The concept of faxing dates back to the mid-19th century. Alexander Bain patented the first known “Electric Printing Telegraph” in 1843. However, the fax technology we recognize today was developed and gained popularity during the 1980s and 1990s, becoming a staple in business communications.
Evolution
The technology evolved significantly from large, complex machines to more compact and user-friendly devices. With advancements in digital communications, traditional fax machines have largely been replaced by internet-based fax services.
Types of Fax Machines
Standalone Fax Machines
These are dedicated devices solely for the purpose of sending and receiving faxes, commonly found in offices where faxing is a frequent necessity.
Multifunction Printers (MFPs)
Modern MFPs often include faxing capabilities alongside printing, scanning, and copying functions, providing an all-in-one solution for document handling.
Online Fax Services
Many businesses now use online services to send and receive faxes through email or internet-based platforms, eliminating the need for physical machines.
Special Considerations
Security
While faxing is considered more secure than some digital transmission methods, sensitive information should still be handled cautiously to prevent unauthorized access.
Quality of Transmission
Factors like telephone line quality, encoding standards, and the condition of the sending and receiving devices can influence the quality of the faxed document.
Examples and Usage
Example 1: Office Communication
A company may use a fax machine to send signed contracts or official documents directly from one office to another, ensuring a quick and secure transmission.
Example 2: Medical Records
Healthcare providers often use fax services to transmit patient records securely, maintaining compliance with privacy regulations.
Related Terms
- Telex: An earlier form of communication technology used for sending text-based messages via teleprinter machines.
- Email: A modern method of sending digital messages, including attachments, over the internet.
- Scanner: A device that digitizes physical documents for electronic storage or transmission.
FAQs
Can I fax without a fax machine?
How secure is faxing compared to email?
Are fax machines still in use today?
Summary
Fax technology has played a crucial role in business and professional communications by enabling the quick electronic transmission of documents over telephone lines. Though partially supplanted by more modern digital communication methods, faxing remains relevant due to its simplicity and security in transmitting sensitive information.
References
- “The History of Fax: A Tale of Telecommunication Evolution,” Telecommunications Journal, 2023.
- International Telecommunications Union (ITU) Standards for Fax Transmission, 2022.
This entry gives a comprehensive overview of the term “Fax,” its historical context, technical aspects, and its modern relevance, making it a useful resource for understanding the role of facsimile in communication.
