Faxing using modem Inspiron 9200

Question

I would like to fax using the modem but don't seem to be able to do so.  I've done it on all my other Dells. I have an Inspiron 9200.  The modem is a Conextant (spelling?).  When I try to fax from either Word or Excel or the fax console, the fax wizard comes up but when I try to continue I get the message 'fax server information cannot be retrieved' and the wizard closes.   Any ideas?   Thanks Carol

johnallg · Answer

Have you consulted Help while in Word or Excel?

spminis · Answer

Yes  - that's why I posted here.  Carol

mich43L · Answer

Make sure the Fax service is started (go to run box type services.msc and look for the Fax service - might have to reboot if you start it)

If that doesn't help serch for the error on google and google groups:
Google Results

Google Groups Results

_Damn, that johnallg is quick!

Message Edited by mich43L on 03-09-2005 03:29 PM

Message Edited by mich43L on 03-09-2005 03:30 PM

johnallg · Answer

I do not use fax services, so do not know how to procede. Two more suggestions - look in the Control Panel - Administrative Tools - Services - and see if the FAX Service is disabled or enabled. Make it enabled and let it start Automatically, since you will be using it regularily or maybe Manual to not tie up resources until it is needed - it would start when Word or Excel need it.

Second suggestion is if that isn't it, post in the Software - Windows XP forum as they are good at software there. Not many helpers on this forum.

spminis · Answer

I did check the fax services.  I've done everything possible that I could through windows and posted on this board as a last resort.  I've emailed 'support' and got the usual garbage.  I won't bother to call support because that would eat up too many hours and I've never found them helpful.   My feeling is that it's a modem thing.  I think the modem either does not support faxes or isn't working correctly. I've just ordered an external fax modem because I don't want to waste any more time on this and for $50 I'll get what I need.   Thanks anyway   Carol

spminis · Answer

Update on Fax problem The $50 'fix' didn't work because it utilized Windows.  It was the 'Best Data, PC card data/fax modem'.  Instead I got a $20 fix with software called 'Mighty Fax'   Carol

mich43L · Answer

I have an Inspiron 9200. The modem is a Conextant

Out of curiosity, what is the exact name of the modem that came with your system?

I have the Conexant D480 mdc v.9x modem and can fax with no problem. I would imagine every current modem is fax capable. _Hell, I can even fax via my cell phone.

spminis · Answer

I have the same modem and  it's not a modem problem.  I tried another modem, also fax capable and got the same 'can't connect to server (or something like that)' error message.   I think it's a Windows/Office 2003  problem.   I have 3 other Dells and fax with no problem.  The main difference between the computer that won't fax and the ones that will is that the one with the fax problem is XP Professional while the others are XP Home or ME.   I'm sure that there is some setting, easily changed, to fix the problem but I don't have the time to tweak and play.    That's why I posted the problem on this board and then ended up paying $20 for a software fix -'Mighty Fax' which apparently works independent of Office.   I've Googled and searched the Microsoft website and couldn't get an answer.    Carol

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Faxing using modem Inspiron 9200

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