Brother 580MC Plain Paper Fax

Brother's 580MC plain-paper fax provides all the benefits of a fax unit with the added advantages of copying, high-speed 14.4 Kbps modem, and a speakerphone. Capable of storing both fax and voice messages, its space-saving, compact design includes a 25-page memory, 10-page document feed, 50-sheet paper cassette, and a copy function for up to 99 copies. When an internal fax is not enough, the 580MC fills the gaps in service, combining all the features you want in a freestanding home fax machine.

The 580MC fax sets up easily, with the aid of the Brother StartCard and quick reference. However, we recommend perusal of the owner's manual to save time, to minimize frustration (we found the programming less than intuitive), and to get the benefits of extensive features, particularly if you use an external answering machine or have telephone numbers that roll over. You can program up to 54 auto-dial numbers, stored alphabetically. Indexing is a great convenience, as are the automatic redial, delayed transmission, and hold buttons. There is even a handy internal tape for when you want to record a conversation or a telephone interview, making very respectable recordings. Copying takes the click of one button, including enlargements and reductions from 50 to 150 percent. This is a convenient, if expensive, way to get copies.

Using the tapered handset and the automatic fax-phone switch lets you make calls and receive faxes through the same line. The automatic document feeder can accommodate 10 pages at a time. The easy-to-replace print cartridge potentially prints up to 150 pages--note, however, that the included cartridge has only a 30-page capacity. The 512 KB of memory can store up to 25 pages of faxes if you run out of paper, and the 16-digit LCD screen shows clear, bright numbers and messages. You can use the optional long-distance service, CallManage, for a low rate.

Overall, the unintuitive programming and the fact that you can specify 99 copies on a unit that holds only 50 sheets did give us pause. But we applaud the 580MC's remote access to faxes and messages, its ability to record conversations, and its copier capabilities, including enlargement and reduction.