Answer

PROBLEM

When trying to detect the attached modem(s) by GFI FaxMaker using the Auto Detect option the following message is being displayed:

All COM ports are in use or unavailable. Please check for any applications using the COM ports (including FaxMaker Fax Server).

ENVIRONMENT

• GFI FaxMaker
• all supported environments
• supported modem

SOLUTION

Ensure that the attached modem(s) is / are not use by any 3rd party application including Microsoft Fax service. In the following steps, a Multitech device is being operated by Microsoft Fax service.

1. Go to Start > Programs > Accessories > Communications > Fax > Fax Service Manager
2. Expand Devices and Providers > Devices
3. Right click on the Multitech device
4. Uncheck the option Send and auto receive, if enabled
5. Open the services panel and locate the Microsoft Fax service
6. Stop and disable the Microsoft Fax service
7. Stop the GFI FaxMaker Fax Server service
8. Open the GFI FaxMaker configuration
9. Click on the Lines / Devices node > Properties
10. Delete any configured lines and click on 'Detect...'
11. Enable the detected lines and close the GFI FaxMaker configuration
12. Re-start the GFI FaxMaker Fax Server service
13. Open the GFI FaxMaker monitor to verify that the line(s) are waiting for call

CAUSE

The modem may already be in use by the Microsoft Fax service.