• Import WinFax PRO faxes and contacts. (*does not import WinFax cover pages)
• Powerful, easy-to-use fax software.
• Produce professional looking faxes with full preview and annotation.
• Access Microsoft Outlook contacts directly when sending faxes.
• Forward received faxes by email. (as PDF, TIFF or proprietary .FAX format)
• Operates as a network fax client for FaxTalk Multiline Server.
• Broadcast faxes to fax numbers and email addresses.
• Fax Merge with Microsoft Word using optional FaxTalk Merge Macro software.
• Block the reception of unwanted junk faxes.
• Developer Fax SDK to integrate FaxTalk with your custom software application.
• Voice mail and Fax back capability with a compatible voice modem using FaxTalk Messenger Pro 7.5 software.

Bundle with the FaxTalk Merge Macro for Microsoft Word

We offer a bundle package with FaxTalk Merge Macro for Microsoft Word.  Automate your faxing from Microsoft Word™ and FaxTalk FaxCenter Pro or FaxTalk Messenger Pro™. Fax broadcast from your Windows desktop by using the power of FaxTalk Fax Messenger and the FaxTalk Merge Macro for Microsoft Word. You can send faxes directly from Microsoft Word by clicking an icon. Select your prepared mail merge document with a data source, click on Send a Fax merge, select your recipients & optional cover sheet and click Merge. Send a few faxes or thousands of faxes, directly from Microsoft Word.

More info here http://www.getfaxing.com/faxtalk

Requirements:

• Compatible Windows operating system (Windows 7, Vista, 2008, 2003, XP, 2000)
• Compatible Class 1, 1.0, 2, 2.0, 2.1 fax modem.
• Compatible Voice/Fax Modem for FaxTalk Messenger Pro
• Microsoft Word XP/2003/2007/2010 for FaxTalk Fax Merge Macro option.
  

Windows Server 2003

The first problem with installation of WinFax PRO under Windows 2003 is that the printer driver support in the operating system was moved from kernel to user mode. The reason is that the use of kernel mode printer drivers can possibily cause a server to hang, result in a blue screen and require a reboot. This isn’t something you want happening on a server. Because of this possibility, Microsoft decided to block the installation of all kernel mode printer drivers in Windows 2003. During the installation of WinFax PRO, a kernel mode printer driver (also called version 2 printer driver) is added to your list of installed printers. By default, Windows 2003 won’t allow you to add this printer, and during the installation it is either ignored silently or a printer driver related error message is displayed. Fortunately, in Windows 2003 you can bypass this restriction. You can set a group policy in Windows 2003 to allow the installation of kernel mode printers. Once you’ve done this, you should be able to successfully install WinFax PRO under Windows 2003.

Windows Server 2008

 Windows Server 2008 does not support Type 2/Kernel Mode printer drivers. While the installation of WinFax (may) appear to complete under Windows 2008, the installation  will not include these printer drivers.  WinFax PRO is not compatible with this operating system.

FaxBack has recently released version 8.6 of NET SatisFAXtion server software.  WinFax PRO client support has been completely omitted in the documentation of versions 8.5 and 8.6. The last version that mentioned the ability to connect WinFax as a client was version 8.1. 

We couldn’t find any upgrade warnings in the 8.5 or 8.6 upgrade or administration documentation for users that could possibily upgrade only to find they now have a bunch of  client software that won’t connect to NET SatisFAXtion anymore.

It’s obvious that the WinFax client feature has been depreciated since version 8.1, but it’s possible that WinFax PRO clients are still “unofficially supported”  in versions 8.5 and 8.6 with use of the latest WinFax Connector.

If you have any additional details regarding compatibility with these versions please let us know.   We contacted FaxBack directly and received a reply that WinFax PRO connector had not been supported since version 8.0 (while we found a WinFax Connector update released about 2 years after the release of 8.0? and 8.1 mentions it in the documentation.

We do know that  NET SatisFAXtion version 8.0 will be retired December 31, 2009.

Our initial testing confirms that you can run WinFax PRO in Windows XP mode, but you cannot “share” the WinFax PRO printer driver with Windows 7 applications.  We successfully shared the fax modem, (and it was a software based modem!) but not the fax printer. This prevents any access from Windows 7 programs to the WinFax printer. Only the applications that are installed within the Windows XP Virtual machine can be used with WinFax to send faxes, you cannot create faxes from within Windows 7 applications. 

This limits the usability of WinFax in Windows 7.  if you require to fax from a Windows 7 application, it will not work.  Although, having Windows XP within your Windows 7 operating system saves you the expensive of having another separate computer just to run legacy Windows XP applications such as WinFax.

An alternative to WinFax PRO is FaxTalk FaxCenter Pro,  more details here

 More on Windows XP Mode with Windows 7.

Windows XP Mode is a feature that is optional on Professional, Ultimate and Enterprise versions of Windows 7. Windows XP Mode is not available in the Home Premium or Starter Editions of Windows 7. Windows XP Mode option can be downloaded at no additional charge with a qualified version of Windows 7 directly from Microsoft’s Web site here:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtual-pc/download.aspx

In addition to the downloads, you’ll need a compatible processor and motherboard that supports hardware virtualization (AMD-V or Intel VT , also code named Vanderpool technology) . Microsoft has released a tool which you can download to test to see if your processor can support the AMD-V or Intel VT mode.  See Microsoft’s link above for more details.

More info on some compatible CPU’s in this post: http://www.getfaxing.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=17&t=718

• Symantec never included the actual revision of WinFax PRO 10 (10.01,10.02 or 10.03)  on the CD ROM.  So, if your WinFax PRO CD ROM says “WinFax PRO 10.03″ its a fake. All genuine WinFax PRO 10 cd’s contain the heading ”WinFax PRO 10.0″
• If you see text with “winFAX” or “Live Update” anywhere on the CD its a fake.  The official Symantec trademarks are ”WinFax” and “LiveUpdate”, no other variations of this text should appear on the CD ROM.
• Failure to capitalize ”symantec” and “corporation”.
• An “All rights resverd” spelling error, or other spelling errors.
• Incorrect font used for WinFax PRO and Symantec logo. The current Symantec logo is consistant across all software they produce.
• Silver portion of CD is a (dull) matte finish, on the real CD it is relective (mirror surface).
• To determine if the CD is brand new and sealed – geniune WinFax PRO 10 CD’s come in a white envelope sleeve that are sealed with a sticker that may have one or more of the following: a bar code, a Symantec 5 or 6 digit product code, a brief license agreement. 
• In most cases, manufacturer information is printed on the inner rim of the CD ROM of genuine CD’s. This is usually missing on a counterfeit.
• Update patch 10.04 is not included on genuine CD ROMs. Any CD that contains the patch update to 10.04 is a counterfeit.

Example of a counterfeit CD ROM  and genuine WinFax PRO 10 CD ROM. Notice the differences in the mirror surface, the Symantec logo, and different font types. The counterfeit contains ”10.03″ version, something that is not printed on the genuine CD.  You’ll also probably see manufacturer information around the inner rim of the genuine CD ROM.  This is  likely to be missing on the counterfeit WinFax PRO CD.

This is a counterfeit poor quality copy of WinFax PRO 10.03 that appears to be created on a home deskjet printer. Note the non-reflective matte finish on the CD ROM.

 Here is the original design of the WnFax PRO 10 CD ROM used for North American releases of WinFax PRO 10.0 and WinFax PRO 10.01. This has a different design, yellow with silver (reflective) images.  This version uses the older style Symantec logo.

This image on the left is an example of a genuine WinFax PRO 10.0 or 10.01 CD ROM. Symantec updated most of its design & software boxes when they changed logo designs. Version 10.02 and 10.03 use the updated design & Symantec logo. This design also uses a reflective mirror finish on portions of the CD ROM. Lack of reflective mirror finish would indicate a counterfeit CD, or a version with the 10.04 update included on the same install CD would indicate a counterfeit.

• About.cfg
• ISUtil.dll
• UNINSTAL.DLL
• WFXCTL32.EXE (2 different versions depending on operating system)
• WFXRES32.DLL
• WFXIFWPP.DLL
• WPHOST.WPI

The update should only be applied to WinFax PRO 10.03 (North America) version, and is recommended only if you are using the Fax Sharing feature where one or more client(s) are using Windows XP.  

We do not recommend installing this patch for any other purpose, as it does not solve any other issues. If you’re having a problem with WinFax not related to fax sharing under Windows XP, then this update will not fix it. If you are using version 10.03 and do not use fax sharing, this update is not recommended. Do not install this update overtop any other version of WinFax, or any non-English language version of WinFax.

Symantec’s instructions to download and install WinFax PRO 10.04 update is available here: http://service1.symantec.com/SUPPORT/faxprod.nsf/docid/2004113014595304

Versions of WinFax affected: Confirmed with all versions of WinFax PRO 9.0x, WinFax PRO 10.0x and TalkWorks PRO 3.0. This error only exists on a fax sharing client, when connecting to a fax host. 

This error occurs when a Fax Sharing client connects to a Host, and displays the Received Fax Dialog box.  This dialog box contains a selection list box from the Host computer containing the Fax Message information, including the number of pages, the Remote CSID, the type of message (fax or voice), and the date & time the message was received.   This data is stored internally as comma delimited format.  If a Remote CSID contains a comma, the list is becomes shifted and is positioned in the list box incorrectly. Lack of error conditions in this module causes the error message in to fault in module WFXIPWPP.DLL

Solution/Workaround:

To correct this problem, you need to view the Host receive log and examine any received faxes that have a Remote CSID that contain a comma.  You need to remove these specific faxes from the Receive log (either delete them, or move them into another folder). 

If these faxes are being received from within your own organization, you can prevent future occurances of this error by remove any comma’s from the CSID’s in the fax machines, or software that you use within your organization. Unfortunately, you cannot control other fax machines that you receive from, so any other fax machine you receive from with a comma is the CSID will trigger this error.

What is a Remote CSID (also called a TSID)? 

This is the data that the caller has entered in the fax machine, or fax software that identifies that specific fax machine. Usually, this information contains the fax number but sometimes can also contain a text message, like a company or department name.  If the CSID (or the TSID) contains a comma, this triggers the error in WinFax.  This is a flaw that was not fixed by Symantec, expecting that a CSID would never contain a comma.

We’ve been testing an on-line fax service for a few months now, and have found OneSuite.com to be reliable for incoming and outgoing faxes.  Get yourself your own fax number, from a selection of 16 U.S. states, with unlimited incoming fax pages.  Your faxes are then transmitted to you instantly to your e-mail address in a multi-page PDF format. Get started for as low as $1.00 a month for unlimited incoming fax service! and you can get started within minutes with a minimum pre-paid amount of $10.00 US Dollars. Use the link below to sign up, and get an additional 5% sign up bonus and your 1st month free!  https://www.onesuite.com/A96909221/suitetreat

If you want to be able to send and receive faxes, the service is $2.95 a month and includes unlimited incoming faxes.  Sent faxes are charged at a per page rate , in USA/Canada the current rate is 2.5 cents per page. 

No setup fees, no hidden fees, you pay for what you use and the monthly fee of only $2.95 for sending and receiving, or $1.00 a month for receiving only.  Each subscription plan includes your own fax number, with unlimited fax receive.

Use SuiteTreat promotion code : A96909221 to receive the 5% Bonus plus your 1st month free.

• WinFax PRO 8.0x
• WinFax PRO 9.0x
• WinFax PRO 10.0x
• TalkWorks PRO 2.0x
• TalkWorks PRO 3.0
• WinFax Basic Edition (all versions)
• TalkWorks Basic Edition (all versions)
• Delrina Fax (French release, version 8.0x and above)

More details on this security flaw by clicking here

Symantec has released this official Security Bulletin for WinFax PRO, technical details can be found at Symantec’s Web site

If you use a Norton product for security, such as Norton 360 and Norton Internet Security 2009, this threat is detected with current definitions. Other security software from other vendors  may also detect this threat.

Regardless of the type of security you are using, We recommend setting the KillBit for this specific ActiveX control to always prevent it from activating. Setting this KillBit does NOT effect the normal operation of WinFax PRO. 

This is recommended if you have or do not have an installation of WinFax PRO.

If you have prior experience in setting a KillBit in the Windows registry, the CSLID for the WinFax PRO Viewer Control is {C05A1FBC-1413-11D1-B05F-00805F4945F6}

or, you can use our tool to do this for you, download our Free version of WinFax Tools.  Click “Fix Security DLL” button and the KillBit will be set automatically.

UPDATE: In a Windows XP update that was released February 9th, 2010, this security flaw was finally addressed. The actual update released by Microsoft is: Microsoft Security Bulletin MS10-008 – Critical Cumulative Security Update of ActiveX Kill Bits (978262).   If you have already downloaded this security update for Windows XP, then your system will already have the necessary ActiveX Kill bits set for the WinFax PRO ActiveX control.  You can still download WinFax Tools and confirm if the ActiveX kill bit was applied properly by this Windows XP Update. If your system has the Killbit set, the WinFax Tools program will indicate it has already been applied.

This is a common question that isn’t always easy to answer without more details on the specific fax pages you’re actually sending or receiving. There is a possibility that transmission errors  can cause pages to be re-transmitted, increasing the overall send and receive time.  In addition, there are compatibility issues with specific types of fax devices, where the maximum fax speed may be limited due to different fax specifications such as v.34, v.32bis and v.17 (more on this later.)

WinFax and the maximum fax transmission and reception speed.

The truth is, all fax transmissions are slow when compared with today’s high speed internet. The maximum speed you can receive and send with WinFax PRO is 14.4kbps (14,400bps), regardless of the type of fax modem you use.  This is a fax specification that is called v.17. You can send a 50 page Word document via e-mail in seconds, while that same 50 page document would take almost an hour to fax using a v.17 fax.

Super G3 and v.34 fax

Some newer office fax machines support something called Super G3 (also called v.34bis), and an older fax standard called v.34, both with transmission speeds of 33.3kbps and 28.8kbps respectively.  However, most  consumer grade fax modems that you buy for your computer don’t support Super G3 or v.34.

Both Super G3 and v.34 fax are not supported by WinFax PRO, even if WinFax did support the newer Super G3 standard, chances are you don’t have the fax modem hardware to be able to take advantage of it. Super G3 is usually reserved for higher-priced office fax machines and higher-end fax modem cards.  Usually, large and medium sized businesses may have a Super G3 Fax machine, but many are still using fax machines and devices that support the older v.17 standard at 14,400bps.  About 3 out of 10 fax machines support the Super G3 specification.

If you use a Super G3 Fax, your maximum speed is 33.3kbps — that’s less throughput then standard telephone based dial-up internet access! Now that’s not so Super speed, but it does cut the transmission time in half when compared to v.17 fax, and also the initial connection and disconnection times are reduced in Super G3 Fax.  To see the benefits of a Super G3 Fax machine, you must communicate with another Super G3 Fax machine or compatible device.

The good news is its all compatible, so a Super G3 Fax Machine can talk with other types of fax machines, including a WinFax equipped computer. The lowest speed of the two machines fastest speed is the transmission speed that is set during the initial connection.

Average time to send or receive a fax page

The time it takes to send or receive a fax is based on the actual content of the fax, and how that fax is compressed during the transmission. On average, a single page will take approximately 1 minute to transmit at the WinFax maximum 14.4kbps speed (about 1/4 the speed of the fastest dial up modem internet connection).

That time will increase considerably if the fax image includes photographs, or complex images on the page. A fax with continuous white-space can be sent or received much faster when compared to faxes with a lot of text and graphics, usually a single fax page with a lot of white-space can be transmitted under 45 seconds. A lot of this time is consumed at the initial connection, start of a new page, and disconnection portions of the transmission.

How to speed it up

If you are concerned about the time it takes to send a fax. I recommend reducing the quality of the fax transmitted by sending pages in “Standard” or “Low” resolution. This can be configured in WinFax setup, under the Send options. This can reduce the sending time of faxes by as much as 50%, but the quality of the fax that is received on the other side suffers. If you use a Class 1 fax modem, you can also turn on the High Speed and 2D Compression options.  You do not have this option with a modem configured as a Class 2 or 2.0 fax modem in WinFax PRO.

When receiving faxes, you do not have control how they are received, if a fax is transmitted by the sender to you in high resolution, you will receive the fax in high resolution and it may take additional time to receive it. If two 14,400 bps machines are connecting, the entire fax transmission speed should be 14,400 bps unless there are some problems with the connection. Speeds such as 9,600 bps, 4,800 bps and 2,400 bps are also possible during error conditions. There are also 9,600 bps fax machines, so you may be receiving from an older fax machine where the maximum speed is 9,600 bps and it may be a normal condition.

Conclusion

Faxes are slow when compared to todays high speed internet access, regardless of the fax specification you’re using.  There is nothing you can do about this limitation. Computers don’t normally come bundled with a fax modem that support Super G3 (Class 2.1 type fax modem), so you can’t take advantage of the speed increase unless you spend money on an expensive fax board and use software that will support the Super G3 specification.

At the time of the writing of this article, we found a reasonably priced hardware based internal PCI and PCI express fax modem that also supports Super G3 (Class 2.1), the MultiTech Multimodem ZXP.   Multitech has been in the fax modem business for many years, and are known for reliable products. They are one of the few manufacturers that produce an internal Super G3/Class 2.1 fax modem.

If you use this fax modem with WinFax, it will not support the Super G3 fax setting, you will have to configure this fax modem as a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 2.0 fax device.

1. Start WinFax Tools
2. Click on Install & Setup Tools button.
3. Click on Fix Start Up Errors button.
4. Click YES, WinFax will automatically close if active.
5. Click OK to any messages that appear.
6. You’re done.

1. Start WinFax Tools.
2. Click WinFax No Pages Fix button.
3. Click Yes to start the No Pages Fix.
4. Click Yes to check compatibility settings. A message will appear if any compatibility changes were made. Click OK.
5. A message will appear that you can now send a fax in WinFax.
6. You’re done.

Repairing a log or phonebook database in WinFax can now be accomplished with ease using WinFax Tools.

Before rebuilding any data in WinFax please backup your entire DATA folder (or entire WinFax folder) where all your WinFax files are located.  We recommend this in case of any failure during the rebuild/repair process.  If you’re not sure where your WinFax files are located, WinFax Tools can determine the location of your DATA folder for you, click on WinFax Info.

1. Start WinFax Tools.
2. Click on Logs & Phonebooks button.
3. Click on Rebuild Log & Phonebooks button.
4. Click OK to the message “Do you want to rebuild log & phonebook files?”
5. If Outlook is currently running, you will be prompted to close Outlook. I recommend closing all other open applications except WinFax Tools.
6. You will now be presented with a dialog box asking you to select a specific WinFax database file with a ”.WFB” extension.  The default phonebook is called “MY-PH-BK” and the default send/receive/outbox log is called “STATUS”.  Select one of these files you want to repair, and click OK.  If you have additional phonebooks, they will be listed with the appropriate name.  Any additional logs (message stores) will also have their unique name.
7. Wait for the selected database to be optimized and rebuilt. Click CLOSE when done.
8. Repeat the steps for any additional databases you want to rebuild (if required.)
9. Click  Close in WinFax Tools.
10. Click Start Controller. The WinFax Controller should start and the database should be repaired.

http://www.getfaxing.com/winfaxebay

NOTE: GetFaxing.com does not sell WinFax PRO software, The above link contains a listing of all current eBay listing with the search term “WinFax”.  We are not affiliated with any sellers (commerical, or private) of WinFax PRO software.

There are also Google Ad links to WinFax software on our support forums, please see http://www.getfaxing.com/forums/

Any site which offers you an “instant” download of WinFax PRO is an illegal site not authorized by Symantec to sell & distribute WinFax.  For your security, do not buy and download any WinFax software from any of these  ”OEM download” sites you might find in some search engines such as Google. Not only are you purchasing pirated software (if you actually get anything at all), but you risk exposing your personal credit card details to criminals.  The only authorized download reseller of Symantec WinFax PRO prior to 2006 was Digital River, which operated the online Symantec Store.  They no longer offer this download.

1. Start Message Manager.

You can start Message Manager using the same methods you use to start any other program running on your operating system. To start Message Manager, do one of the following:

From the Windows Start button Click the Windows Start button, point to Programs, then WinFax PRO or TalkWorks PRO, and then click WinFax PRO or TalkWorks PRO Message Manager.

From the Controller Right click the Controller icon on the Windows taskbar and click Start Message Manager on the menu that appears.
From the WinFax folder/program group  Double click the Message Manager icon or executable file (FAXMNG32.EXE).

From Windows Explorer or File Manager Double click the Message Manager icon or executable file (FAXMNG32.EXE).

2. On the Go menu, click Outbox. The Logs window opens to display the Outbox folder.

3. In the record list, click the message you want to put on hold.

4. On the Send menu, click Hold (for selected faxes) or Hold All (for all faxes in the outbox)

• To hold all scheduled messages in the record list, click Hold All on the Send menu.
• Held faxes are marked with an upheld palm icon in the Outbox.
• An error message will appear if you try to Hold a fax that is currently being sent. This is a normal message as you can only hold faxes that are waiting to be sent.

Here’s a Video of some of WinFax’s features.  It was incorrectly named Norton WinFax in the video, WinFax Features Video

Before you purchase WinFax PRO software (eBay is one source), I’d recommend you read the following guide, so you know what you are buying.

Some WinFax History

WinFax was developed by Canadian software developers Delrina Technology in the early 1990s. Delrina sold millions of copies worldwide and as its flagship product, it pushed Delrina to become one of the fastest growing technology companies in Canada. The software allowed Windows based PCs with fax modems to easily send and receive faxes. It was part of Delrina’s contribution towards the “paperless” office. It included a easy to use interface and advanced features that still are not found in many fax software packages today. Delrina’s success caught the eye of software giant Symantec, and the company, along with the development rights to WinFax, was sold to Symantec in 1995. Symantec continued developing and updating WinFax PRO until about 2002, until it was discontinued in June 2006. Support ceased in August, 2006. As of the writing of this guide, no new versions are being developed by Symantec or any other third party. However, WinFax is still being used by thousands of users worldwide today! The reason is many die-hard users of this great fax package don’t want to give up the ease of use of WinFax – and have tried many other “alternatives” without success. Although never confirmed by Symantec, it has been rumoured that over 10 million copies of WinFax PRO were sold worldwide prior to being discontinued.

Free Upgrades, Support?

So now you know Symantec has discontinued WinFax. Auctions on eBay which claim “Free upgrades” are misleading, because Symantec will not offer any free upgrades, provide support, or provide updates to this software. While there is a LiveUpdate (Symantec’s automatic update software) feature in WinFax PRO, it does not automatically update your version of the software. Live technical Support from Symantec is also no longer available, and the only source of information for WinFax PRO is what is available from their on-line Web site or third-party Web sites. So be prepared to solve problems yourself on-line, or with the help a third party Web site, or support service such as the GetFaxing.com WinFax forums. More information on WinFax PRO and how to receive LIVE remote technical support can be found at www.GetFaxing.com. All retail versions of WinFax PRO 10 included a manual, and were sold with the “yellow” cardboard box. If the auction your looking at doesn’t include a manual or box, the CD might be counterfeit, especially if the seller has multiple copies for sale. Symantec has recently sued many dealers who sold illegal copies of their software. Be aware of what you are buying and what you will receive. Lots of sellers like to include a picture of the nice yellow box shot of WinFax PRO in their auctions, and many auctions use the wording “SEALED”, but you only end up receiving is sealed CD-ROM in an envelope sleeve. Many sellers also claim your buying the “OEM version” but WinFax PRO 10 was never bundled with specific hardware, so there are no OEM versions of WinFax PRO 10. (There were some BASIC Editions that were bundled with hardware, but these were feature limited) However, there are some exceptions and many eBay sellers are legitimate. Loose sleeve CDs may be legitimate software that was never put into a box for retail sale, used for volume licensing sales, some one selling a copy that lose the box and manual, etc. Its very difficult for you to determine how the seller obtained these CDs, so you might want to ask them. Look at the eBay feedback rating and comments to see if they’ve had any complaints before bidding.

Vista and Windows 7 compatibility

If you’re using Windows Vista or Windows 7, forget about using WinFax PRO. While WinFax PRO will install under Microsoft Vista and Windows 7, it will not operate properly. The fax printer driver will not install in these operating systems (it’s not compatible). The printer driver is the heart of WinFax, without it, you can’t send faxes from applications. If you already have Vista Ultimate or Business Editions, you’ll already have a basic fax software included with the operating system. These are very basic and not even come close to the features of WinFax. Unfortunately, if you only have Vista Home, Premium or Basic you won’t get any built in fax capability. Windows 7 will also include a very limited fax capability, but at this time it is unknown which versions will support this feature out of the box.

If you have Windows XP, you’re best bet is version 10.03. Version 10.03 is the version if you require access to Outlook 2003 data. Other versions will not function properly with Outlook 2003 and will give you grief with your Office applications such as Microsoft Word and Excel, because WinFax likes to install these add-ins without telling you. While 10.03 is recommended, it is not necessary. Version 10.02 has problems with the “Software Development Kit”, so if you plan on using WinFax with any other application, forget version 10.02. Version 10.04 is only required if you are using a Fax Sharing Host in Windows XP SP2 or SP3 (this is the only update can be downloaded from Symantec’s Web site, but to update you require version 10.03)

Using WinFax PRO with Windows XP Service Pack 3 / Service Pack 2

Yes, WinFax PRO is compatible with Windows XP Service Pack 2 and Service Pack 3. Anyone who claims otherwise, is incorrect. If you’ve recently upgraded your Windows XP computer to include Internet Explorer 7/8, Service Pack 2, or the latest Service Pack 3, and you use WinFax PRO or TalkWorks PRO, you may have encountered a problem entering fax numbers in a phonebook. You may have also encountered problems entering a fax number, an IP address, or CSID (Caller Station Identifer – a fax number) during the installation or within the user properties setup of WinFax PRO. Download WinFax Tools for a solution.

WinFax PRO 10 Version history

WinFax PRO 10.0 (released prior to Windows XP, but will install with Windows XP. Problems with Office 2003)

WinFax PRO 10.01 (short lived LiveUpdate for 10.0, fixed a few bugs, such as changing e-mail forwarding file type from .exe to .fxm, but generated some other flaws, because of this, it was removed as an update)

WinFax PRO 10.02 (officially planned Windows XP version. Problems with Office 2003 integration still, and also introduced the SDK problem which causes problems with third-party integration (Merge faxing with Microsoft Word, ACT! etc.)

WinFax PRO 10.03 (released to fix problems in 10.02 – much better, Outlook 2003 works without crashing. Still problems with Word macros)

WinFax PRO 10.04 (released as an update from version 10.03 only, fixes the security settings in Windows XP SP2 only for use with Fax Sharing) Not recommended as an update unless you are using Fax Sharing and Windows XP SP2 on all computers.

What type of fax modem?

You’ll need an analog fax/data modem installed on your PC for sending and receiving faxes. WinFax will not send “Internet faxes” for free using a DSL or Cable Modem. WinFax can be used to send internet faxes, but can only be done with a third-party company called Concord Fax which charges a fee for usage. Visit www.getfaxing.com/winfax  for more details on using a DSL or Cable Modem with WinFax PRO

The three main internal components of any analog fax modem are the DPU (Data Pump Unit which contains the DSP-Digital Signal Processor,RAM+ROM), the MCU (Microprocessor control unit) and the DAA (Data Access Arrangement which is the portion of the modem that handles the telephone line connection) . Different types of modems will include the DPU & MCU either in hardware in the form of microprocessor chips on the modem itself, or emulated in software performed by the computer. All modems have a DAA as hardware but they are not all created equal. The actual functions of these components are not discussed in detail here, but we mention them so you can understand the differences between the different types of modems you can buy.

“SoftModems”

They’re internal and sometimes found as external USB modems and can be purchased at computer stores or on eBay for very cheap or they come bundled with your computer. They work, but not always well with WinFax. They’ll come with drivers that are specific for the operating system you are using (usually, this is Windows – many Linux users don’t like softmodems for this reason). A “soft modem” is usually missing the DPU and MCU hardware that more expensive modems have built in. Instead of this hardware, the computer is used to simulate this missing hardware, this reduces the overall manufacturing cost of the modem because it uses less microprocesser chips. Why do you think it only cost $10? Some people might have had a bad experience with a “softmodem” and will tell you these modems are junk, but the truth is these modems can and do work if you have a fast computer and the drivers are installed correctly. We have many of our customers working well with these types of modems, so if you’ve already have one of these modem installed in your desktop or notebook, you can give it a try. You might be successful, just be aware that you can probably do better with the “controller based” or “controller-less” type modem described below. If your sending and receiving a serious amount of faxes while working on your computer doing other tasks, you might want to look at a better performing fax modem. Usually around $20.00 price. PCTel, ESS, Conexant Soft56K, HSF, U.S. Robotics 5670 are all softmodems.

“Winmodems”

Winmodems are often refered to as being the same as “softmodems”, but this is not true when dealing with U.S. Robotics types modems. U.S. Robotics came out with the first “WinModem” in the late 90s, and they own the trademark to this brand name. So legally, other modem manufacturers can’t call their modems “WinModems”. A U.S. Robotics brand “WinModem” is usually a controller-less type of modem. If a modem is a referred to as a “WinModem”, and is not a U.S. Robotics brand, you can be sure its really just a “softmodem”. I expect because of this consumer confusion, U.S. Robotics has dropped using the name “WinModem” for newer models of modems they manufacturer.

“Controller based” modems, often called “Hardware Modems”.

All external modems which use the serial port connection (usually 9pin or 25pin) are Controller based modems. Also often called “Hardware Modem”. The processing is done all within the modem itself, and not the computer. These modems have the DPU & MCU built into the hardware so you don’t have the computer worry about these tasks. These are the best types of modems. You can also purchase internal versions of these modems in PCI or PCIe format, but they are a rare find as few manufacturers make these. Found new at around $50 and up for external, internal hardware modems PCI/PCIe $70 and up. U.S. Robotics 5610 is a controller based internal fax modem.

“Controller-less” based modems.

A controller-less based modem off loads the MCU to the PC. This lowers the overall cost of the modem but keeps the DPU on the modem itself, so it’s one step below performance of the Controller based modem, but well ahead the “Softmodem” design. Many internal PCI modems manufactured today are “Controller-less” based modems, unfortunately, these aren’t the modems that usually get bundled with your PC. These are a popular choice for those who don’t want an external based fax modem. These modems are sometimes also referred incorrectly as a “hardware modem” when compared with a “softmodem”. Found new at a price range from a low of $30 and up. The Conexant HCF type fax modems are controller-less and U.S. Robotics “WinModems” are controller-less.

How can I tell the difference between types of modems?

A “softmodem” is fairly easy to recognize, its the one that is small, compact, and might only have a single-chip on the entire fax circuit board. If the driver name has the words “Soft” , “Flex”, “HSP”, HSF” its likely a softmodem. Most manufacturers of softmodems will not mention anywhere in their marketing material about it being a “softmodem”, so you need to look a the driver, or the modem circuit board, or do some research on the specificiations of the fax modem from the manufacturer. External USB modems also fall into the “softmodem” category, but some external modems have both USB and Serial connections which could be controller based fax modems. Internal Controller-less and Controller based fax modems usually will have a few microprocessor chips on the fax circuit board, perhaps 2 or more microprocessor chips. They are usually larger in size when compared to a softmodem. Most manufacuters who make these modems make sure their marketing promotes the fact they are “hardware based” fax modems and can get a higher price tag because of this.

External controller based fax modems are easy to recognize, they’re external, require an added power supply, and connect to the computer via RS-232 (serial type 9 pin or 25 pin) connector. When in doubt, find the model number of your fax modem, and if possible, contact the manufacturer for specifications of the fax modem.

Look for an old fax modem

Older 28.8kbps and 33.6kbps fax modems are just as good as the new 56kbps ones. Remember this speed is for the “data” portion of the modem, not the fax, which is standard at 14.4kbps. The max fax rate that you can transmit with WinFax is 14.4kbps, so these fax modems work fine. Older modems manufactured in the mid and late 90s (Hayes, Supra. U.S. Robotics for example.) are good for use with WinFax and eBay is a good source to buy used, older 14.4kbps fax modems dirt cheap. Unfortunately, many older internal modems use the old ISA bus which all modern computers have abandoned, so you want to avoid these because they just won’t plug into a modern PC with PCI slots. Internal controller based PCI modems are good if you stick with those that are “controller based” or “controller-less”. Rockwell based (now called Conexant) chipset are recommended, but external modems using the standard 9 pin or older 25 pin serial port work best. The fax standard is 14.4kbps, so an older modem will perform the same speed as a new one when using WinFax PRO.

2 modems in one computer

WinFax PRO will support up to 2 modems on a single PC. If you need to have dual modems, I’d recommend ensuring both modems are different, otherwise, you may run into difficulties. Two external controller based modems are best, or one external controller-based and one internal controller-less. You can try two controller-less modems, but make sure they are different models/manufacturers. Never use two softmodem based modems on a single machine, you’re just asking for trouble.

Fax Merge/Fax Broadcasting/Sending Bulk Faxes

Yes, WinFax PRO can receive faxes but one of the most common uses of WinFax PRO is to send many faxes, called a fax merge/fax blast, or fax broadcast. You might have a fax that you need to send to each of your customers or clients on a weekly or monthly basis. A properly configured WinFax PRO is perfect for this type of job. A fax merge allows you to personalize individual faxes to your clients. We can assist in setting up this type of service for you, never again do you have to pay an outsouring company to send your faxes – you can do it all yourself! More information can be found at GetFaxing.com

Hope this guide helps, and good luck with your faxing project! If you have any additional information you’d like to suggest for this posting please let us know.

Many of you held off upgrading from XP to Vista are considering the upgrade to Microsoft’s latest operating system Windows 7, but are wondering if many of your existing applications such as WinFax PRO will work.

WinFax PRO and TalkWorks PRO (the fax/voice version of Symantec’s popular fax software) still have a strong user base and many of you don’t want to give up this powerful and easy to use desktop faxing software.

Unfortunately, Windows 7, doesn’t change the compatibility issues with WinFax PRO that were introduced with Microsoft Vista.  As expected, the same compatibility issues with WinFax PRO and TalkWorks PRO also exist with Windows 7.

We ran the Windows 7 Upgrade Adviser, this is a tool offered by Microsoft that scans your computer to determine if it can be upgraded to Windows 7. The program also scans all the existing software installed, and determines if there are any known compatibility problems with Windows 7.  The Windows 7 Upgrade Adviser, incorrectly  indicates that WinFax PRO / TalkWorks PRO has some minor issues, and to contact the publisher’s web site. . The link to Symantec’s Web site is no help as Symantec chooses to ignore the existence of WinFax or TalkWorks since they’ve discontinued the software.

Minor issues they are not. You may be able to install WinFax or TalkWorks with Windows 7, but the required WinFax printer driver will not install.  This will prevent you from accessing WinFax from any application you want to fax from, it also prevents you from adding attachmentssuch as PDFs, Word documents, Text files, images, etc. for faxing.

Windows 7  Professional and Ultimate will include the not so impressive fax utility called Windows Fax & Scan, a feature that was previously included in the Vista Ultimate and Vista Business Editions. If you’d rather update your software to a much more professional package that is compatible with both 32 and 64 bit versions of Windows 7, Vista, Windows Server 2003 & 2008, Windows XP and 2000, then we recommend FaxTalk FaxCenter Pro 8 or FaxTalk Messenger Pro 8.  For more details, see our Web page at http://www.getfaxing.com/faxtalk

Windows 7 is not compatible  with WinFax PRO. There is no upgrade path available from Symantec for Windows 7 compatibility.  The WinFax PRO 10 software was discontinued by Symantec in June 2006, and no plans for future versions exist.   For information on moving to another software package that can import your WinFax data, please see http://www.getfaxing.com/faxtalk

A subscription to the WinFax Forums gives you access to all our WinFax Support forums, and includes use of our exclusive WinFax Tools application, download access to fax modem drivers and many other related WinFax downloads. For more details on subscribing to our service, please visit:  http://www.getfaxing.com/services.htm#forums 

1. Subscribe to WinFax Tools here with your Paypal account : http://www.getfaxing.com/services.htm#forums
2. Download WinFax Tools and save Winfax Tools to your desktop or other location.
3. Start WinFax Tools. Click “Check for Updates” to update WinFax Tools to the latest version (included with your subscription, enter your user id and password to access the download)
4. Click WinFax No Pages Fix. Click Yes to start the check. Click Yes to check compatibility settings. This option checks to ensure all the settings for WinFax are configured for Windows XP.
5. Click OK to the “Done processing” message.
6. Click Fix Viewer DLL Security button.  Click OK to continue. (NOTE: A Windows XP security update from April 2010 makes this option obsolete, but if you should NOT skip this step. If WinFax Tools detects the security update has already been applied by a Windows XP update, it will report this.)
7. Click “Fix Entry Problem” button. Follow the on-screen instructions.
8. Reboot computer.  NOTE: A reboot is necessary for the changes to be applied by Windows XP.
9. If you continue to experience problems, visit our forums at http://www.getfaxing.com/forums and post a message. A technician can provide you additional assistance. (Forums support is included with your subscription)