A fax machine is a physical device used to send and receive documents over a telephone line. It scans paper documents and transmits them as electronic signals, which are then printed out by another fax machine at the receiving end. First invented in 1843 by Scottish inventor Alexander Bain, the fax machine became a standard office tool for transmitting documents quickly and securely across distances. 

What does a Fax Machine do? 

A fax machine typically includes:

• A scanner to convert paper documents into electronic signals
• A modem to send the signals over a phone line
• A printer to reproduce received documents
• A handset or keypad for dialing fax numbers

• Memory storage for queued or failed transmissions

   

   

Why use a Fax Machine? 

Fax machines have traditionally been used for transmitting important documents quickly over long distances, especially in industries like law, healthcare, and government. While they are being replaced by digital alternatives like wireless faxing and online fax services, they remain in use where physical documentation is required or where digital infrastructure is limited.