A desktop facsimile terminal that can communicate with computers and other office systems has been introduced by the Xerox Corporation. Called the Telecopier 295, the unit is a Group III high-speed digital facsimile transceiver that can, through an optional RS-232C port, exchange information with a variety of computers and word processors. Information received from computers can be printed out by the 295 or redistributed to other facsimile units, which may be located anywhere in the world.
The unit can also serve as a local graphics or character printer, an auxiliary computer printer and a low-volume convenience copier, as well as a local input/output device to the host computer. This capability allows users to input hard-copy information into a computer system simply by scanning the documents.
The system automatically answers the telephone to receive information, then prints the message on a 328-foot roll of paper, cuts the copies to the size of the originals and disconnects from the line.
To send documents, a user puts up to 30 pieces of paper in the unit's automatic feeder, dials the telephone number of the receiving terminal, and presses the start/stop button to begin the scanning and transmission of documents.
The system will automatically adjust to the speed of the sending or receiving unit. In addition, a compatibility option allows it to communicate with all CCITT Group I and II analog facsimile terminals. The 295 also provides the recipient with a printed message heading on received copies showing the time, date and terminal-identification number.
