I have Windows XP Pro. I can receive faxes manually. But I want to have my computer detect the fax tone and receive faxes automatically. I have one phone line and share it with the fax and an answer machine that picks up after 4 rings or after 2 rings if there is a new message.

Is there a way to set up Windows XP to detect the fax signal and automatically start to receive the fax after 1 ring?

Thanks.

No. You MIGHT be able to do this with your software, but generally no. what you want to get is a COMswitch. You connect the switch to your phone line, and connect your answering machine and modem to the switch. The switch picks up the call, listens for the Fax handshaking signal and routes the call to either the answering machine or the PC.

These aren't as available as they once were as faxing in dying out. But I know Staples has them.

The still make fax machines with answering machines built in. They sell them everywhere. I have a new one. DSL is a good thing if you stay online a lot. You can still receive calls and faxes while online.