Blog posts about Fax and Voice

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Archive for the ‘RightFax’ Category

RightFax: Java XML API Integration

Posted by Koop on March 8, 2023

I have several clients using the Java XML integration which kinda works via magic. This is a module that is included with the integration module but it involves a separate installation checkbox in order to install it. Then, it creates a web hook listener which generates code language (FCL) for the integration module to process. OpenText created the following flow diagram several years ago that I always refer to when reviewing the Java XML integration.

When troubleshooting the Java XML application, the first thing I do is submit a sample job.

Postfile.exe -v -s <RFServerName> -o /rfxml/rfwebcon.dll "C:\Program Files (x86)\RightFax\Production\xml\examples\XML_FAX_SUBMIT_minimum.xml"

The output of the sample job will either generate the FCL code that is placed in the “INBOX” directory for the integration module. The inbox directory is also known as the default integration directory flow.

In the latest bout that I had with the integration, the other engineer changed the default inbox directory (0 stars, do not recommend) so the files were getting generated, but nothing was processing the directory that the FCL files were being placed. Once we configured the integration module to monitor that directory again, everything worked like a charm!

I used KB0779964 on OpenText knowledge portal to aid me in writing this blog post and whenever I have issues with this integration. It was written for Windows 2003, but its still a great source of data!

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RightFax + SQL Express

Posted by Koop on March 6, 2023

As part of the default installation, RightFax installs SQL express. I support hundreds of RightFax environments and rarely do I see any problem with using SQL Express with RightFax. RightFax does not leverage the more advanced features of “regular” SQL so Express tends to fit the needs.

Until it doesn’t. Then you are screwed.

Afterhours, I got a ticket with the following information: (An error occurred while updating the entries. See the inner exception for the details. Could not allocate space for the object dbo.Audits. PK_Audits in database Rightfax because the PRIMARY filegroup is full”

Now for people that are unaware that RightFax uses SQL express, they would jump to the conclusion that the server ran out of disk space. This is not the case. The server ran into the SQL Express issue of the database cannot be larger than 10 GB.

The first thing I did was purge the Audits table as it is filled with login/logoff data which is not useful (until it is) and purging it will not impact performance of the server. I then shrank the database. This process got me 200 megs free which elevated the crisis but did not give me enough room to call it a day. I then tasked the overnight team to upgrade SQL Express to standard SQL which does not have a database limit. Its been over a week and issue is resolved.

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RightFax: Can I install the exchange connector on Exchange 2019

Posted by Koop on March 3, 2023

On-prem exchange connectors are no longer popular, but I do have a cult following. OpenText made a push to move the integration to use Exchange Web Services which really cut down the amount of Exchange Connectors that I support. With that being said, I have a few solid holdouts. That leads to the following question:

I currently have an exchange 2013 connector and want to upgrade it to 2019. What needs to be done?

First, we need to check the version of RightFax. If you are on a version of RightFax previous to 20.2, guess we are looking down the glass of an RightFax upgrade. So, if you are on 16.2, then you should be upgraging to 21.2 or 22.2 prior to making changes to the Exchange connector.

Second, go ahead and install the Exchange Connector on the 2019 server. You do not need to reboot after installation. You do need to share the RFAXGATE folder for the RightFax server.

Third, configure RightFax to monitor the RFAXGATE directory. Make sure the IN and OUT folders are getting updated for the PULSE.TXT

Forth. Uninstall the 2013 Connector. IMPORTANT STEP. Make sure you reboot the 2013 exchange server after uninstall. Otherwise, Exchange will still route files to the unisntalled connector.

Fifth. Test inbound/outbound mail flow. You should be set!

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RightFax: Can I change the IP address of a working fax server?

Posted by Koop on February 24, 2023

I was asked today if it was possible to change the IP address of an existing RightFax server because the server was changing data centers. I provided the following information:

“You need to validate if the MAC address of the rightfax server is going to change.  If not, you just need to update the IP address on the SBC and then update the IP address in the brooktrout config tool.  There are two places to update it, and easily visible once you get to that location.

Stop the Doctransport Service

DocTransport -> Brooktrout -> RightFax OEM -> Configure Brooktrout -> Advanced Mode -> Yes -> SIP -> IP Parameters -> From Value (update IP address in this field) -> Contact IPv4 Address (update IP address here) -> Save -> Apply

Start the Doctransport Service

If the MAC address changes, then you would need to re-license the server before doing the above.  Before moving the server, validate that you have activations left on the server.  Then do the following:

Properties of RightFax server Module -> Feature Activation -> Product Licensing Utility -> Activate -> Activate.

At this point, the server is activated and services can be started.”

The most important takeaway here is if the MAC address changes. OpenText has had problems with the activations after they did a data migration late last year or earlier this year. I had already validated that this client was fine with their licenses, so I didn’t need to provide that additional information to him, but it is a very real problem. Otherwise, IP changes are very easy to do especially if the MAC address of the server is to stay the same.

Good luck and happy faxing!

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RightFax integration series: PDF Module

Posted by Koop on February 23, 2023

The RightFax PDF Module is an add-on to the base software that allows users to send faxes in PDF format. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the RightFax PDF Module and the associated costs.

The RightFax PDF Module allows users to convert documents into PDF format before sending them as faxes. This makes it easier for recipients to view and print the documents, as PDF files can be opened on a wide variety of devices and platforms. The PDF Module also includes advanced features such as the ability to add watermarks and annotations to PDF files, as well as support for encrypted PDFs.

In terms of costs, the RightFax PDF Module is typically sold as an add-on to the base RightFax software. The exact cost of the module will depend on a number of factors, including the number of licenses required, the version of RightFax being used, and the vendor from which the software is purchased. This software is licensed per server, so the cost would increase based on the amount of RightFax servers that you have.

While the cost of the RightFax PDF Module may seem steep, it’s important to consider the benefits that the software can provide. By allowing users to send faxes in PDF format, organizations can streamline their faxing processes and reduce the need for paper-based documents. This can lead to cost savings in areas such as printing, paper, and ink, as well as increased productivity and efficiency.

In addition, the RightFax PDF Module includes a number of advanced security features that can help organizations comply with regulatory requirements and protect sensitive information. For example, the software includes support for encrypted PDFs, which can help to prevent unauthorized access to confidential information.

Overall, the RightFax PDF Module is a powerful and valuable add-on to the base RightFax software. While the cost of the module may be significant, organizations that rely on faxing as a key part of their business processes may find that the benefits outweigh the costs. To get an accurate quote for the cost of the module, organizations should consult with a vendor that specializes in fax software and can provide guidance on the best solution for their specific needs.

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Integration Series: RightFax + NextGen

Posted by Koop on February 15, 2023

RightFax is a popular fax server solution that can be integrated with NextGen Electronic Medical Records (EMR) to streamline fax communication within healthcare organizations. The integration between these two systems can significantly improve workflow and efficiency by eliminating the need for manual faxing and providing a secure way to transmit sensitive patient information.

When it comes to integrating RightFax with NextGen EMR, there are two main methods available: the fax printer driver and the API integration. Each method has its own advantages and considerations, so it’s important to understand both options before deciding which one is best for your organization.

The fax printer driver method is the most straightforward way to integrate RightFax with NextGen EMR. This method involves installing the RightFax fax printer driver on the server where NextGen EMR is hosted. The driver acts as a virtual printer that can be selected from the print dialog box within NextGen EMR. Once the fax printer driver is selected, users can enter the recipient’s fax number and other necessary information, and the document will be sent as a fax through the RightFax server.

The fax printer driver method is a good option for organizations that have limited IT resources and want a simple and easy-to-use fax solution. However, it does have some limitations. For example, the fax printer driver method can only send faxes from within NextGen EMR and automation of faxes submitted can be impacted.

The API integration method is more complex than the fax printer driver method, but it provides more flexibility and functionality. This method involves using the RightFax COM API to build custom integrations between RightFax and NextGen EMR. With the COM API integration, it’s possible to automate fax sending and receiving processes and to send faxes from other applications or systems.

The API integration method is a good option for organizations that have complex fax workflows or that need to integrate RightFax with other systems beyond NextGen EMR.

Ultimately, the decision of which integration method to use will depend on the specific needs and resources of your organization. Regardless of the integration method, integrating RightFax with NextGen EMR can significantly improve the efficiency and security of fax communication within your healthcare organization.

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Integration Series: RightFax + Searchable PDF

Posted by Koop on February 9, 2023

The Searchable PDF module in RightFax is a powerful tool that provides several benefits to organizations of all sizes. You have to buy the module in order to use it, so keep that in mind. Here are some of the key benefits of using the Searchable PDF module in RightFax:

  1. Improved Document Search: The Searchable PDF module allows you to search for specific information within your faxes, which can save you time and improve productivity. The module uses optical character recognition (OCR) technology to turn scanned images into text-searchable PDFs.
  2. Increased Accessibility: With the Searchable PDF module, you can easily access important information within your faxes, even if they are stored on remote servers or in the cloud. This makes it easy to share information with colleagues and stakeholders, regardless of their location.
  3. Better Document Management: The Searchable PDF module helps you manage your faxes more effectively by making it easier to find specific information. This can help you stay organized and reduce the risk of important information being lost or forgotten.

In conclusion, the Searchable PDF module in RightFax is a valuable tool for organizations that want to improve document search, accessibility, management, security, and compliance. Whether you are a small business or a large corporation, the Searchable PDF module can help streamline your operations and keep your information safe and secure.

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Integration series: RightFax + FileNet

Posted by Koop on February 9, 2023

One of the more interesting integrations that I have done is the RightFax Integration with FileNet. Integrating RightFax with FileNet, a content management and document capture platform, provides organizations with a powerful solution for managing and automating their document-driven business processes.

The integration of RightFax and FileNet enables organizations to automatically route incoming and outgoing faxes to the appropriate content repositories within FileNet. This improves document management by eliminating manual intervention and reducing the risk of errors associated with manual filing. Additionally, the integration provides a secure and auditable method of exchanging sensitive information, such as contracts and medical records, between organizations.

RightFax and FileNet integration also supports the automation of business processes, such as invoicing and purchase order processing. By using FileNet’s document capture capabilities, organizations can automatically extract data from incoming faxes and route them to the appropriate process or system for further processing. This results in faster and more accurate processing of documents, reducing the time and costs associated with manual data entry.

The integration of RightFax and FileNet can also support compliance requirements by providing a secure and auditable method of exchanging sensitive information. The ability to track and monitor the flow of information through the system ensures that all documents are handled in accordance with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.

In conclusion, integrating RightFax with FileNet provides organizations with a powerful solution for managing and automating their document-driven business processes. By eliminating manual intervention, automating business processes, and providing a secure and auditable method of exchanging sensitive information, organizations can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Feel free to reach out if your organization is still using the FileNet integration. Most of my customers have depreciated the integration but I still have fond memories of getting this integration to work with RightFax.

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RightFax Services will not start after setting TLS 1.2

Posted by Koop on February 6, 2023

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Integration Series: RightFax and Salesforce

Posted by Koop on February 2, 2023

The integration between Salesforce and RightFax enables organizations to streamline their fax processes and improve productivity. Here is how the integration works:

  1. Integration Set-Up: The integration between Salesforce and RightFax requires the installation of a connector, which can be purchased from OpenText or a RightFax reseller. The connector links the two platforms and allows for the transfer of information between them.
  2. Data Transfer: Once the connector is installed, data can be transferred automatically between Salesforce and RightFax. For example, when a new lead is created in Salesforce, the information can be automatically sent to RightFax and used to create a new fax cover sheet.
  3. Faxing from Salesforce: With the integration in place, users can send faxes directly from the Salesforce platform. They can select a recipient from the Salesforce database, attach a document, and send the fax without ever leaving the Salesforce platform.
  4. Fax Receiving: Received faxes can be automatically routed to the appropriate Salesforce records. For example, a fax received from a customer can be automatically associated with the customer’s record in Salesforce.
  5. Document Management: The integration also enables users to manage fax documents within Salesforce. Faxes can be stored as attachments to Salesforce records, making it easy for users to access and manage fax information.

In conclusion, the integration between Salesforce and RightFax enables organizations to streamline their fax processes and improve productivity by automating the transfer of information between the two platforms, enabling faxing from within Salesforce, automatically routing received faxes to the appropriate records, and managing fax documents within Salesforce.

Posted in FAX, Integration Series, RightFax | 1 Comment »