Multiple-file feature for a fax printer driver

Abstract

A multiple-file facsimile feature for a fax printer driver allows combination of multiple files into a single facsimile transmission via the computer application programs in which the files were created, without the need to later identify and select the files a second time in order to create the multiple-file fax. The feature is advantageously implemented on a LAN-based computer, such as by a C-language program. When fax transmission of a file is requested, a dialog box containing dedicated buttons for the various functions involved in multiple-file fax creation is displayed by the fax printer driver, with a list containing the names of the files that have been added to the multiple-file fax displayed in a subwindow. The Add-to-List function converts each selected file to a faxable file that is saved in the temporary directory, adds the file name to the multiple-file fax list, and transfers the user back to the calling application program. This function is repeated until all desired files have been added to the multiple-file fax list. The Send function creates an envelope for the files, sends the files in the envelope to the fax modem or apparatus interface, performs a file clean-up function, and then transfers the user back to the application program. A Cancel function allows either the current print to be canceled or the composition of the current multiple-file fax to be canceled. A Remove function allows files to be removed from the fax list either temporarily, in order that another fax may be sent, or permanently from the compound fax currently being composed.