This section describes some basic concepts, and the interaction with QFAX components. You may choose to skip this chapter.
When you send a fax using a standalone fax machine, it goes through a number of steps.
When a fax machine receives a fax, the following happens:
QFAX currently consists of the following components:
text2g3
This program takes a text file (created with the editor
of your choice) and converts it into a CCITT G3 format (compressed
bitmap) file. You can include graphics in your document using some
simple control sequences. This is analogous to the fax machine scanner.
qfax
. This program transmits the CCITT G3 format (compressed
bitmap) file using your modem. This program instructs the modem to dial
the remote fax, supplies parameters for negotiation with the remote
machine, configures your modem and sends the data. It reports the
success of the fax transmission.
The qfax
program can also receive G3 format files via your
modem. It instructs your modem to answer the phone, configures your
modem for negotiation with the remote machine and receives the G3
data. If reports the result of the fax reception and maintains a log
file.
qfv
. A
PE
program that displays faxes on the screen or prints
them using either HP pcl (i.e. LaserJet/DeskJet), Epson 24 bit (LQ850
and similar/compatible), Epson 9 or Postscript printers.
Some `file-format' devices (pbm, pic, gif) are also provided.
printfax
. This program allows you to print G3 format files
(either prepared by text2g3
or received using qfax
) to a
HP pcl (i.e. LaserJet/DeskJet), Epson 24 bit (LQ850
and similar/compatible), Epson 9 or Postscript printer.
Some `file-format' devices (pbm, pic, gif) are also provided.
The mechanism of sending and receiving faxes using a conventional fax machine may involve some degradation of the original quality due to the scanning of the picture by the sending machine and its printing on (typically) a low quality thermal printer in the receiving fax machine. If you transmit and receive by computer, you retain the quality of the original fax (about 200 dpi). In addition, you have the option of encoding your faxes at a higher resolution than most low end fax machines default to. Using fax software and a laser or inkjet printer will give a high quality plain paper system.