# Executive Mistakes Photocopier for Fax Machine A hilarious tech support moment: An executive tries to fax using a photocopier. - **Source:** [www.theregister.com - Articles](https://brifing.si/source/2c34ea50-d341-4a10-925d-12c012a9ad10) - **Published:** 2026-08-28 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/9e9b4542-b2bc-48d4-926d-c500eff6656c ## Funny Tech Support Moment Orson, a facilities manager at a UK food company, was called in one morning by the company secretary who was frustrated because the fax machine wasn't working. She claimed she couldn't send an urgent fax the night before. Orson decided to observe her process and quickly realized she was actually trying to use the photocopier instead of the fax machine, leading to a classic tech support blunder. ## What Is a Fax Machine? Fax machines combined a low-resolution scanner, a poor-quality printer, and a slow modem into one device. Users could send documents by placing them on the tray, dialing the recipient's number, and hitting send. By the late 1990s, email made fax machines obsolete in most countries, except Japan. However, multifunction printers continued to include fax capabilities for years, keeping the technology alive in some offices. ## The Executive's Mistake The company secretary placed the document on the photocopier's tray, dialed the number on the keypad, and pressed 'Enter,' thinking she was sending a fax. Orson immediately recognized her error and explained she was using the wrong machine. The incident highlights how even simple office technology can confuse users, especially those unfamiliar with its functions. ## The Confusion of Multifunction Printers The rise of multifunction printers in offices has led to user confusion, as these devices combine copying, scanning, printing, and faxing into one machine. The complex interfaces often overwhelm employees, particularly those less tech-savvy. This case shows how easily users can mistake one function for another, leading to frustrating and sometimes humorous situations. ## The Problem of Tech Illiteracy This story underscores the widespread issue of tech illiteracy in the workplace. Many employees struggle with basic functions of office equipment, leading to inefficiencies and wasted time. Companies should invest in regular training to improve digital literacy among staff, reducing such errors and boosting productivity. ## The History of Fax Machines Fax machines were a staple of business communication in the 1980s and 1990s. However, the advent of email and the internet rendered them nearly obsolete. Despite this, some industries, like law and healthcare, continued using faxes due to regulatory requirements. Even today, a few companies cling to fax machines out of habit, though their use is increasingly rare. ## The Importance of Tech Support This incident highlights the critical role of tech support in modern workplaces. Even minor user errors can disrupt workflows and reduce efficiency. Support teams must quickly resolve issues and provide clear guidance to prevent downtime. Proactive training can also help employees avoid common mistakes, ensuring smoother operations. ## Technology and the Human Factor Rapid technological advancements often leave users struggling to keep up. Office workers may feel overwhelmed by new devices and software, leading to mistakes like this one. Companies must not only provide up-to-date equipment but also offer training and support to help employees adapt. By addressing the human factor, businesses can minimize tech-related frustrations and improve overall efficiency. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theregister.com/personal-tech/2026/08/28/exec-couldnt-identify-a-photocopier-which-made-for-a-fax-inating-tech-support-call/5292838 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._