Multipurpose computer accessory for facilitating facsimile communication

A computer accessory for interfacing a microcomputer with a fax line includes facility for converting fax signals to Ascii form for application to a PC port, and for converting signals of Ascii form received at the PC port to image for conversion to fax signals. The accessory, which preferably is incorporated in a laser printer or copier scanner, also includes a facility for notifying an intended recipient of the reception of a fax message.