HelpSimply Bits VoIPTroubleshooting outbound fax issues

Troubleshooting outbound fax issues

Fax not going through? You’re not alone. While faxing may seem simple, it relies on a few key systems working together smoothly. If you're having trouble sending a fax, here are some quick checks and fixes you can try.

Common reasons why faxes fail to send

There are a few typical culprits when outbound faxes won’t go through. Let’s go through them one by one:

1. Check the receiving fax number
  • Try calling the number from a regular phone–do you hear a fax tone?
  • If not, the number may be incorrect or the destination fax machine may not be online.
2. Inspect your fax setup
  • Make sure the phone line is firmly connected to your fax machine.
  • If you're using a traditional landline, check for any physical damage to the cable or jacks.
  • Confirm the line itself is working by plugging in an analog phone and listening for a dial tone.
3. Connection and training issues
  • Your fax machine may be struggling to sync ("train") with the receiving device.
  • This can sometimes happen due to poor line quality or compatibility between devices.
4. Reboot your ATA (Analog Telephone Adapter)
  • If you're using an ATA (usually a small blue or black box that connects your fax machine to the internet), try unplugging it, waiting 30 seconds, and plugging it back in.
  • A simple reboot can often clear up stuck operations.
5. Using a Mediatrix device?
  • If your setup includes a Mediatrix adapter and you’ve tried all of the above, it's time to get in touch. Our team can help diagnose and resolve the issue.
  • Call Simply Bits Technical Support at 520-545-0333 for further assistance.