User guide

Chapter 2: Getting Started
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. FaxFinder Admin User Guide 9
FaxFinder Versatility, Phone Line and PBX Compatibility
The type of communication lines that connect to the FaxFinder, or more specifically the source and
functionality of the analog communication lines used with the FaxFinder, dictate if the inbound fax
routing method of the FaxFinder port is to be set to a dynamic delivery method (based on the number
dialed by the party sending the fax), or if the FaxFinder's routing method is set to a more traditional
static delivery method (based solely on which communication line/FaxFinder port the fax came in on).
Although the FaxFinder fax ports can simply be connected to an ordinary phone subscriber line (a POTS
line), it is often connected to a PBX extension/station port. One of the convenient features of the
FaxFinder is its ability to deliver incoming faxes as email messages directly to users on your network.
This feature is best utilized when your PBX has the ability to route multiple receiving numbers to a single
station port. Traditionally, this PBX functionality requires your PBX to be connected to Telco via a PRI
line provisioned with a block of DID numbers. Today, there are additional implementations where a PBX
may learn what number was dialed by the originator (e.g. an IP enabled PBX communicating directly
with an IP based PSTN service or other IP enabled communication equipment).
When your PBX sends a call to the FaxFinder, it first must ring the extension the FaxFinder port is
connected to. When the FaxFinder picks up (go off hook), the PBX then needs to transmit a string of
DTMF digits to the extension for the FaxFinder to hear (usually the last x number of digits dialed by the
calling side). The FaxFinder port then proceeds to answer as a fax machine and receive the incoming fax.
After the fax transmission is completed, the FaxFinder will use the DID information to determine
delivery options. This determination is made by reading the recipient inbound routing table in the
FaxFinder.
When the PBX provides call routing information, it does not matter to the FaxFinder which port (line)
the call was received on, the fax will be routed to all of the delivery options associated with the DID
number (Recipient Extension) defined in the "Recipient" routing table.
If the PBX lacks this ability to provide DID call routing information (i.e. the analog line is not capable of
providing this), incoming faxes will be routed solely on the delivery options associated with the specific
FaxFinder port (Line) the call was received on. Multiple delivery options can be defined per physical
line/port.
The FaxFinder does not support the utilization of Caller ID information that is traditionally presented in-
between rings, before the call is answered (before the off hook state).
The Fax Finder does not support "Call Waiting". The Call Waiting beep provided by a Telco line or PBX
will cause a fax communication error, most commonly resulting in an unwanted disconnect.
Caller ID and Call Waiting features need to be disabled on the lines or PBX ports connected to the
FaxFinder.