Batch processing
Allows you to program your fax machine to send multiple faxes to a single number or to multiple numbers. Your faxes are placed in a queue - a batch - and processed automatically in turn.
Broadcasting
Allows sending one fax to many numbers all at once.
Confidential faxing
Allows incoming fax to be stored in memory until an access code is entered. In order to work, this feature requires both the sending and receiving machines be made by the same manufacturer.
Delayed transmission
A feature that stores outgoing faxes in memory and transmits them at a specified time - such as at night, when phone rates are lower. Delayed transmission can be used to send multiple faxes to a single number or multiple faxes to multiple numbers.
Dual access
A feature that allows a fax machine to print incoming faxes from memory while transmitting another fax, or scan a fax into memory while receiving a fax.
Group dialing
Similar to broadcasting, where the recipients' numbers are pre-programmed into your fax.
Inkjet printing
Inkjet printing technology is available on mid-range fax machines.
Laser printing
Laser printing technology is available on high-end fax machines. Laser faxes typically start at just under $1000.
One-touch dialing
Numbers are preprogrammed so they can be dialed quickly using only their single assigned number.
PC-based faxing
The ability to fax to a computer.
Polling
Designed to prevent congestion, polling means that your fax machine can be programmed to call other fax machines and request a fax at a designated time. Polling requires all the fax machines involved to be made by the same manufacturer.
Quick Scan
A way to quickly scan a fax into memory before sending. This feature allows the user to retrieve the document from the machine long before the transmission has finished.
Relay broadcasting
Allows one fax machine to call another fax machine, ask for a fax, and then broadcast it to multiple locations. The feature can reduce phone charges, particularly if the fax originates from an overseas location: you can broadcast the fax to many locations with just one international call.
Speed dialing
Similar to one-touch dialing, where numbers can be programmed into "speed dial" to allow quick dialing with a couple of key strokes.