It says unable to send or receive fac

[Kpettit58-_]

When trying to fax it says unable to send or receive fax

[Sneha_01]

Hi @Kpettit58-_ 

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

When you receive the message "Unable to send or receive fax", there could be several potential reasons for the issue. Let’s go through some troubleshooting steps to help resolve this.

1. Check the Fax Connection

• Phone Line Connection: Make sure your printer is properly connected to a working phone line. If you’re using a landline, make sure the phone line is working properly and connected securely to the Fax port on your printer.
• Phone Line Configuration: Ensure the printer is connected to the “Phone” or “Line” port (depending on your printer model) and not the "Ext" or "Phone" port.
• Test the Line: If you're unsure whether the phone line is working, try plugging in a regular phone to the same line to see if you get a dial tone.

2. Check Fax Settings on Printer

• Fax Settings: Make sure the fax is properly configured in the printer’s settings.
  • Open the printer’s menu, navigate to Fax settings, and ensure the settings (like Fax Header, Country/Region, Fax Speed, and Resolution) are correctly configured for your area.
  • Ensure that the Auto Answer feature is set properly, especially if you want the printer to automatically answer incoming fax calls.

3. Test Fax Functionality

• Send a Test Fax: You can try sending a test fax to a known working fax machine or service (like a fax service center). This helps you confirm whether it’s an issue with the printer or the line.
• Receive a Test Fax: If possible, ask someone to send a fax to your number. If you don't hear any incoming faxes, it could indicate a line or configuration issue.

4. Check for Fax Line Interference

• VoIP Lines or Digital Lines: If you're using a VoIP phone line (internet-based phone service), faxing can be problematic. Most VoIP systems are not compatible with faxing, as they may distort the signal. If you’re using a digital phone line, faxing may not work well.
  • If you must use a VoIP phone line, reduce the fax speed or try faxing to a different number to see if that resolves the issue.

5. Disable Any Call Blocking Features

• Some printers come with call-blocking or call-waiting features, which can interfere with the fax process. Disable any call waiting or call-blocking settings that might be active.

6. Reset Fax Setup

• If you're still unable to send or receive faxes after checking everything, you might need to reset the fax settings:
  • Go to the Fax Setup or Fax Preferences menu on the printer.
  • Select Restore Defaults or a similar option.
  • Reconfigure the settings with the correct details and try again.

7. Check for Printer Firmware Updates

• If your printer has any outstanding firmware updates, try updating it. Manufacturers often release updates that address specific fax or communication issues.
• You can check for updates through the printer’s menu or by visiting the HP support website

I hope this helps.

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