Importance

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Abstract

A system and method has one or more store and forward facilities, (SAFF) each associated with a plurality of subscriber facsimile machines. The SAFF include a computer for controlling operations and mass data storage equipment. A subscriber to the system delivers an outgoing facsimile message to the SAFF with which it is associated, which records the fax message, together with data as to originating facsimile machine and destination facsimile machine. The SAFF then delivers the facsimile message to the intended receiver facsimile machine, either directly or through another SAFF. If unsuccessful on an initial attempt, the SAFF periodically retries to send the facsimile message. The system also provides spooling of all facsimile messages for an intended receiver machine, which are all spooled upon connection with the receiver machine. Subscriber mailboxes are provided as part of the mass storage, which can be accessed by a subscriber to have his messages delivered to any facsimile machine he designates. Secure facsimile transmission is achieved through use of subscriber PIN numbers. Broadcasting redirecting messages and cost accounting can also be achieved by the system and method. After receipt of a message by the subscriber, the system may provide an immediate-reply service, allowing the recipient to immediately send out a message selected from a reply service menu. The system can also be used in cooperation with a paperless facsimile machine which directly displays the facsimile message on a screen and is capable of entering outgoing facsimile messages to the SAFF. The system can convert the received fax message into voice mail message and direct the converted voice message to a voice mail box as instructed by the message sender or recipient.

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