Can I use my mobile cell phone as a fax modem to send a fax?
Many models of mobile cell phones have the ability to connect to a Microsoft Windows based computer via a USB cable or a wireless Bluetooth connection. Usually, this type of connection allows you to tether your cell phone internet service to another device. It also lets you transfer data to and from your cell phone.
Some older cell phone models (e.g. LG, Motorola, Samsung, and Nokia) that use a proprietary operating system may have a feature to use it as a serial modem, usually called a “virtual” fax modem. The modem would appear in the Phone & Modem settings of Microsoft Windows when connected to the PC. This lets you control the cell phone by use of standardized AT commands via software on the PC. The AT commands control the dialing, data and fax capabilities of the virtual modem. This is a legacy feature. It was once popular with dial-up connections. Unfortunately, cell phones using iOS or Android do not have this feature.
Your cell phone manufacturer may provide a Modem driver for Microsoft Windows. If so, you could use it as a fax device. However, its most likely to be a legacy Windows driver and would not support latest Windows versions. It must also support one of the following fax classes: Class 1, 1.0, 2, 2.0, or 2.1. You also need to confirm if faxing is supported with your cell phone service provider.
Once you properly install the Windows drivers provided by the phone manufacturer, you can connect the phone to the computer. This connection automatically adds a modem device. The device name is listed under Modems in the Windows device manager.
FaxTalk fax software can use this device as a fax modem. It sends and receives faxes using your cell phone number. This connection from the computer can be made via USB cable or Bluetooth (USB is recommended)
NOTE: Your cell phone service provider (eg. Sprint, AT&T, Rogers, Telus) must also support the ability to send and/or receive faxes. This may be an optional service that requires a subscription and/or data plan. Contact your cell phone provider for details
You can also completely bypass the cell phone. Use software that can send and receive faxes via the internet. FaxTalk can send and receive faxes using an internet connection. There is no need for a fax modem, cell phone or phone lines. It can use your existing VoIP or FoIP provider that supports T.38 fax.
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