How to Send a Fax Using HylaFAX

Despite the times we live in, there are still instances where faxing is required, and HylaFAX provides an efficient way to do so. HylaFAX is an open-source fax software that allows users to send faxes from their computers. In this article, we will explore how to send a fax using HylaFAX and the various features it offers.

Setting up HylaFAX

Before you can send a fax using HylaFAX, you need to set it up on your system. To begin, you must install the HylaFAX software on your Linux server. This can be done by following the installation instructions provided by the HylaFAX project. Once installed, you will need to configure HylaFAX by setting up your fax number, sender information, and cover page preferences.

Sending a Fax Using HylaFAX

Once HylaFAX is set up, sending a fax is a straightforward process. You can use the HylaFAX client, which provides a command-line interface for sending faxes. To fax, you will need the fax number of the destination and the file containing the document you wish to fax. Using the 'sendfax' command with the appropriate options, you can send the fax with ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Send a Fax

Prerequisites:

1. Linux System: Ensure you have a Linux system installed, as HylaFAX is primarily designed for Unix-like operating systems.
2. Fax Modem: You'll need a compatible fax modem installed on your computer.
3. HylaFAX Installation: Make sure you have HylaFAX installed on your system. You can usually install it using your distribution's package manager.

Step 1: Configure HylaFAX:

1. Open a terminal window.
2. Edit the HylaFAX configuration file using your preferred text editor (e.g., sudo nano /etc/hylafax/hyla.conf).
3. Configure the following settings:
   • CountryCode: Set your country code.
   • AreaCode: Enter your area code.
   • LongDistancePrefix: Add your long-distance prefix (if applicable).
   • InternationalPrefix: Add your international dialing prefix (if applicable).
   • DialStringRules: Configure dialing rules (e.g., "etc/dialrules").
4. Save the changes and exit the text editor.

Step 2: Create a Cover Page (Optional):

1. If you want to include a cover page, create a simple text file with the cover page content. Save it as a plain text file (e.g., mycoverpage.txt).

Step 3: Prepare Your Fax:

1. Create a document you want to fax, either in electronic format (e.g., PDF) or as a physical paper.
2. If using a physical document, scan it into an electronic format and save it.

Step 4: Send the Fax:

1. Open a terminal window.
2. Use the sendfax command to send your fax. The basic syntax is:
   php
2. sendfax -d <recipient_fax_number> -o <sender_name> -t <cover_page_file> <document_file>
   • <recipient_fax_number>: The recipient's fax number (include the country code, area code, and the fax number itself).
   • <sender_name>: Your name or organization (optional).
   • <cover_page_file>: The path to your cover page file (if you created one).
   • <document_file>: The path to your document file.
3. Press Enter to send the fax.
4. HylaFAX will dial the recipient's fax number and send the document. You will receive a confirmation once the fax is sent.

Step 5: Monitor the Fax (Optional):

1. You can monitor the fax transmission using the faxstat command. Run faxstat -s to see the status of outgoing faxes.
2. You can also check the fax logs for more detailed information in /var/spool/hylafax/etc/xferfaxlog.

That's it! You've successfully sent a fax using HylaFAX on your Linux system. Make sure to verify that your fax modem is properly configured and connected to the phone line for successful fax transmission.

Advanced Features

In addition to letting you fax online with Linux, HylaFAX offers several advanced features. One such feature is the email-to-fax configuration, which allows you to send faxes directly from your email client. This eliminates the need to use the HylaFAX client software. Additionally, HylaFAX supports Windows clients, both version 5.2 and 5.3, as well as Mac clients. It also offers cross-platform clients for users who work with different operating systems.

Troubleshooting

In case you encounter any issues while sending faxes using HylaFAX, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can follow. First, check your sender configuration, ensuring that all the required information is correctly entered. Additionally, HylaFAX has a fax administrator utility that allows you to debug and diagnose any problems with the fax service. By using this utility, you can identify and resolve common issues that may arise.

Conclusion

HylaFAX provides a reliable and versatile solution for sending faxes using a Linux server. With its easy setup and advanced features, it is a go-to option for those who still need to send faxes in today's digital age. Whether you use the HylaFAX client or take advantage of the email-to-fax configuration, HylaFAX offers a seamless experience for sending outbound faxes. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can start utilizing HylaFAX to send faxes efficiently and effortlessly.