Faxing today requires deciding whether you want to purchase an actual machine or simply send a fax from computer programs. Traditionally, businesses sent faxes through voice telephone lines, and they required the use of machines specifically developed for this purpose.

Technology has evolved, and with it so has the fax, along with the computer fax and other means. Today you can:

1. Send a fax using a regular fax machine
2. Fax from computer using email
3. Fax on a cell phone
4. Send a fax from your handheld organizer
5. Fax by means of satellite, cable, or radio

As a business operator, you must have the capability to fax information. Invoices, product specifications and quotes need sending quickly, and faxing is the best way of doing that job. However, you also need to decide what type of faxing you want to do. Fax machines and all-in-one combo printers with fax machine capabilities are available, but new technology allows you to fax without paper.

In the age of environmental awareness, saving paper is always a good idea. So, if you want to cut down on your paper, consider switching from a traditional fax machine to a computer fax program. These programs allow you to send directly a fax from a computer through the email system.

How you choose to fax information is up to you and to the demands of your company. If you do not send many faxes, a fax machine would probably be a wise investment. However, if you send a large amount of faxes in a day, consider switching to a computer fax program. This will save money on ink, paper and toner.

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Go paperless: buy computer fax software

In the age of 'green,' saving trees is at the top of the list. Yes, you have a fax machine (and you probably need one), but computer fax software allows you to move important documents easily without using a lot of paper.

I recommend: Circle Computer Resources offers Fax2000. This product allows you to send faxes quickly and easily, right from your computer. They also offer a trial period. Equisys sells Zetafax, computer software that allows you to fax from your computer. This company also offers a free trial of this product. RKS Software sells RKS Fax for Windows Vista and Windows XP. This company also sells Mighty Fax, but this product works only with Windows XP Home or Professional. Both products allow you to fax from your computer. A free trial download is available on the website.

If you need to buy a fax machine, buy a combo printer with fax machine

All-in-one systems offer a printer, fax machine and more. If you do not send faxes often, or if you plan to upgrade to a computer fax program, consider an all-in-one system.

I recommend: Hewlett-Packard Development Company offers a line of HP LaserJet Multifunction Products (MFPs). These products allow you to print, copy, scan and fax while buying only one device. Panasonic Corporation of North America sells the KX-MB781, a multifunction machine that prints, scans, copies and faxes. Xerox Corporation has a line of office machines that fax, print, copy and scan. Retail stores also sell combo printers with fax machine, such as Best Buy and Circuit City.

Buy computer printers, fax machine separately

If you simply need a regular fax machine, there are many available on the market.

I recommend: FaxSuperstore.com offers an array of name-brand computer fax machines. Super Warehouse sells name brand fax machines at great prices, but their selection is smaller. CDW Corporation has everything from a high-speed laser fax to a personal plain fax machine. Abt Inc. sells fax machines from Panasonic and Canon.

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Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Most computer fax software is compatible with Windows applications. If you use Mac computers, contact the software companies to inquire about software for Mac computers as well.