JPH0764738A - Laser printer - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To provide the laser printer having a facsimile function which can realize to execute a printing processing at a high speed without increasing the power consumption, in a network system. CONSTITUTION:This laser printer is provided with an engine control part 3 for stopping a printing mechanism when a stop request is received, and also, for actuating the printing mechanism when an actuation request is received, a network control means 1 for outputting a printing mechanism actuation request by a printing command from a host computer, and also, changing a communication control system to the host computer, and a main control part 2 for outputting the stop request and the actuation request of the printing mechanism to the engine control part 3 by an instruction from the network control means 1.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a laser printer, and more particularly to a laser printer having a facsimile function suitable for use in a network system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, with the increasing functionality and price of microcomputers, LANs (Local Area Networks), etc., which connect a plurality of computers with a communication cable for sharing data and effectively using resources, have been developed. Network systems have come into use.

A single laser printer processes print requests from each computer.

Further, since the LAN and the public line can be easily connected, the laser printer is provided with a facsimile function to improve the function of the system.

A laser printer used by being connected to a conventional network system employs a contention system (also called a line contention system) as a line control system.

[0006] That is, when a print request or a facsimile transmission request is issued to the host computer connected to the network system, the transmission request is output to the laser printer after confirming that the line is not in use.

[0007]. If the laser printer can process, the laser printer notifies the host computer that it can be received.

[0008] The host computer, upon receiving a receivable response from the laser printer, outputs print data or facsimile transmission data to the laser printer.

[0009]. On the other hand, the laser printer notifies the host computer of the impossibility of reception if the processing cannot be performed.

[0010]. When the host computer receives the unreceivable response from the laser printer, after confirming that the line is not in use after a certain period of time, the host computer outputs the transmission request again to the laser printer.

However, in a laser printer used as a printing apparatus and a facsimile apparatus from a plurality of host computers in a network system, print data and facsimile data are transmitted irregularly in time, so that all of the host computers have the same function. Even when the power was cut off, the laser printer often remained in the power-on state, resulting in waste of power consumption.

Therefore, in order to suppress the waste of power consumption in the conventional laser printer, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-221984, the time during the standby state in which the printing operation and the data receiving operation are not performed is monitored, When the standby state continues for a predetermined time or more, the heater of the fixing unit is turned off or the control temperature of the fixing unit is lowered to save power, and an input regarded as print data is generated from the host computer. At this time, the control temperature of the fixing unit is returned to normal so that printing is possible.

Further, in the conventional facsimile apparatus, in order to suppress the waste of power consumption, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 58-157251, the automatic setting is triggered by the setting of the original or the operation of the main power switch at the time of transmission. Then, the controlled switch is closed to operate the main power supply circuit, and at the time of reception, the incoming signal from the transmission side is used as a trigger to automatically close the controlled switch and operate the main power supply circuit.

[0014]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, when the input regarded as the print data is received, the power saving state is changed to the printable state, so that the fixing unit reaches a predetermined temperature. However, there is an inconvenience that it takes a considerable amount of time to complete the printing after outputting the print request.

Further, when data transmitted by facsimile is received from the host computer in the power saving state, there is a problem that the printer returns to the standby state although the printing operation is not performed.

Further, after receiving the data from the host computer, it is judged whether the data is the facsimile transmission data or the normal print data, so that it is slow to return from the power saving state to the standby state in the case of the normal print data. was there.

[0017]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to improve the disadvantages of the conventional example, and particularly in a network system, a laser having a facsimile function capable of realizing high-speed printing processing without increasing power consumption. To provide a printer.

[0018]

Therefore, in the present invention, an engine control unit that stops the printing mechanism when a stop request is received and activates the printing mechanism when an activation request is received, and a printing mechanism by a printing command from a host computer. A network control unit that outputs a start request and changes a communication control method with the host computer, and a main control unit that outputs a stop request or a start request of the printing mechanism to the engine control unit according to an instruction from the network control unit are provided. Is adopted. This aims to achieve the above-mentioned object.

[0019]

When the printing mechanism is stopped, the network control means sets the communication control method with the host computer to the polling selecting method. Here, when a "REPORT" response, which means a print request for facsimile communication, is received from the host computer, the communication control system is switched to the contention system and the main control unit is notified.

When the main control section receives the "REPORT" response from the network control means, it outputs a "STAND-BY" command to the engine control section.

The engine control unit sends "S" from the main control unit.
When the "TAND-BY" command is received, the printing mechanism is activated.

The network control means sets the contention control method to the communication control method with the host computer when the printing mechanism is in the standby state. When a "SLEEP" command, which means a power saving request for the printer, is received from the host computer, the communication control system is switched to the polling selecting system and the main control unit is notified.

When the main controller receives the "SLEEP" command from the network controller, it outputs the "PAUSE" command to the engine controller.

The engine control unit receives the "P
When the "AUSE" command is received, the printing mechanism is stopped.

[0025]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of host computers 51 to 54 connected by a network 4, a FAX controller 5 for controlling facsimile communication via a public line 7, and a printing mechanism when a stop request is received. Of the engine control unit 3 for activating the print mechanism when the print request is received and receiving the start request, and outputting the print mechanism start request by a facsimile print command from the host computers 51-54 and controlling the communication with the host computers 51-54. Based on the network control means 1 to be changed and the commands and responses from the host computers 51 to 54 received via this network control means 1, a stop request and a start request for the printing mechanism are output to the engine control section 3 and FAX control is performed. Main control unit 2 for controlling the unit 5
Composed of and.

Here, the host computers 51 to 54 connected to the network 4 and the modem 5 which controls communication with other computers via communication lines.
5 will be collectively referred to as host devices 51 to 55.

When the engine controller 3 receives the "PAUSE" command from the main controller 2, the engine controller 3 stops the printers such as the fuser, the main motor, and the polygon scanner motor of the printer to put them in a power saving state. And a printing mechanism activation unit 32 that activates them when the "STAND-BY" command is received to make them printable.

The main controller 2 includes an operator panel 29 for the printer user to manually set menus, an I / O controller 22 for transmitting and receiving data from the operator panel 29 and the network controller 1, and a temporary data And DRAM2 for storing the
5, a DRAM controller 24 for controlling the CPU 5, and an EEPROM 2 for nonvolatilely storing the contents set by the menu.
3 and a font ROM 2 that stores font data
7, a video controller 26 that transfers data to the engine control unit 3, and a CPU (central processing unit) 21 that performs processing in accordance with the procedure stored in the F / W ROM 28.

The operator panel 29 includes a display panel 29 ₁ for displaying the printer status and setting information, a sleep button 29 ₂ pressed by the operator when the printing mechanism is forcibly stopped, and a setting request by the operator. A menu button 29 _{3 for} instructing and a confirm / return button 29 ₄ that the operator presses when confirming the set value are provided.

Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the network control means 1 switches to the polling selecting system and receives the "SLEEP" command while performing the line control by the contention system and by the polling selecting system. "WAKE-UP" response or "RE" during line control
When the "PORT" command is received, the line control method switching control unit 11 that switches to the contention method and the data received from the host apparatuses 51 to 55 via the network 4 are converted into internal processing data, and the internal processing data is transferred to the host apparatus 51. The network interface unit 14 converts the data to be transmitted to the network 5 to 55 and outputs the data to the network 4.

Further, the network control means 1 further operates the network 4 according to an instruction from the line control method switching control section 11.
Also, the contention control unit 12 that controls communication with the host devices 51 to 55 via the network interface unit 14 by the contention method, and the network 4 and the network interface unit 14 by the instruction of the line control method switching control unit 11 Contention with the main control unit 2 is instructed by the polling selection control unit 13 that controls communication with the host devices 51 to 55 via the polling selection system and the facsimile function, and the line control system switching control unit 11. A network controller that controls communication with the control unit 12 (or the polling selecting unit 13) and notifies the transmission content from the contention control unit 12 or the polling selecting unit 13 to the line control method switching control unit 11. And it includes a data monitoring unit 15.

As shown in FIG. 3, the network data monitoring section 15 includes a transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ for controlling communication with the main control section 2 and a contention control section 12.
Contention transmission / reception data I / F that controls communication with
15 ₁ and the line control method switching control unit 11 are controlled, and when a “WAKE-UP” response, a “REPORT” response or a “SLEEP” command is received, the transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆
The monitoring control unit 15 which notifies the main control unit 2 via the
₅ and the received data from the contention transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₁ causes “SLEE” in the “READY” state.
When the "P" command is detected, the SLEEP command detection unit 15 ₂ for notifying the monitoring control unit 15 ₅ , the polling selection transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₄ for controlling the communication with the polling selection control unit 13, and the polling selection transmission / reception data the host device 51 to the "SLEEP" state by receiving data from I / F15 ₄
If the response from 55 is a "WAKE-UP" response or a "REPORT" response, the response analysis unit 15 ₃ for the inquiry notified to the monitoring control unit 15 ₅
It has and.

The polling / selecting control unit 13 is
As shown in FIG. 4, the network data monitoring unit 15
Transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ for controlling communication with the network interface unit 14 and polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ for controlling communication with the network interface unit 14,
An inquiry information data editing unit 13 ₂ for editing the information section data transmission command to the host device 51-55 in "SLEEP" state, performs registration and deletion of the identification number of the host devices 51 to 55 by facsimile transmission request response Identification number storage unit 13 that edits the address portion data of the transmission command to the host devices 51 to 55
₄ and host devices 51 to 5 connected to the network 4
5 and the inquiry information data editing unit 13 from the identification number storage unit 13 _{4 while} controlling the line control with the polling selecting system.
_The line control unit 13 ₃ edits a transmission command to the host devices 51 to 55 based on the data of the information unit from ₂ and outputs it to the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ .

Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described.

(A). The operation of the main controller 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

.. The power switch of power supply 6 is "on"
When the status is reached, the printer is activated (step S in FIG. 5).
50).

.. The CPU 21 performs initial setting according to the contents stored in the EEPROM 23 (step S51 in FIG. 5).

.. The CPU 21 sets the value of the variable STATE to 1 (step S52 in FIG. 5).

Here, when STATE = 1, the printer is "R".
This indicates that the printer is in the "EADY" state, that is, the printable state, and STATE = 0 indicates that the printer is in the "SLEEP" state, that is, the power saving state.

.. The CPU 21 sets the value of the variable COUNT to 0 (step S53 in FIG. 5).

Here, the variable COUNT indicates that the printer is "R".
This shows the time when there is no menu setting on the operator panel 29 or no data is received from the host devices 51 to 55 in the "EADY" state. The unit is minutes. That is, it indicates the time when the printer is not performing any processing.

.. The CPU 21 reads the value of the variable STATE and determines whether the printer status is "READY" status or "S" status.
It is checked whether it is in the "LEEP" state (step S5 in FIG. 5).
4).

If the printer is in the "READY" state, the process proceeds to the process (B) shown below (step S70 in FIG. 6).

On the other hand, if the printer is in the "SLEEP" state, the following process (C) is performed (step S100 in FIG. 7).

When the process (B) or (C) is completed, the following process is performed.

.. The CPU 21 uses the menu button 29 ₃
It is checked whether or not is pressed (step S in FIG. 5).
55).

If the menu button 29 ₃ or the confirm / return button 29 ₄ is pressed, the following menu setting process (D) is performed (step S5 in FIG. 5).
8).

On the other hand, if neither the menu button 29 ₃ nor the confirm / return button 29 ₄ is pressed, processing such as facsimile transmission / reception and printing is performed (step S5 in FIG. 5).
7) and returns to the above processing.

.. When the menu setting process (D) is completed, the CPU 21 sets (initializes) 0 to the value of the variable COUNT. Then, processing such as facsimile transmission / reception and printing is performed (step S57 in FIG. 5), and the procedure returns to the above processing.

This processing loop is continued until the power switch of the power supply device 6 is in the "OFF" state.

(B). In the processing of (A) above, the operation when the printer is in the "READY" state is shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to the flowchart of.

In the "READY" state, the line control of the network 4 is performed by the contention method.

.. The CPU 21 has host devices 51 to 55.
It is checked whether or not the data is received from (step S70 in FIG. 6).

Here, when data is received from the host devices 51 to 55, the process proceeds to the following (step S78 in FIG. 6).

On the other hand, if no data is received from the host devices 51 to 55, the next process is performed.

-1. The CPU 21 uses the sleep button 2
It is checked whether or not 9 ₂ is pressed (step S71 in FIG. 6).

-2. Here, if the sleep button 29 ₂ is pressed, the CPU 21 causes the video controller 26
To the print mechanism stop unit 31 of the engine control unit 3 via
AUSE ”command is output (step S7 in FIG. 6).
The process shifts to 4).

Further, the CPU 21 determines that the printer is "SL".
The network controller 1 is notified via the IO controller 22 of the transition to the "EEP" state. As a result, the line control of the network 4 is switched to the polling selecting method.

The printing mechanism stop unit 31 of the engine control unit 3
When receiving the "PAUSE" command from the video controller 26, stops the fuser, main motor, and polygon scanner motor of the printer. That is,
The printer transitions to the "SLEEP" state.

-3. On the other hand, if no sleep button 29 ₂ is pressed, CPU 21 increments the value of the variable COUNT (Step S72 in FIG. 6), the process proceeds to the next processing. Here, the value of the variable COUNT can be incremented by using a timer.

.. The CPU 21 checks whether the value of the variable COUNT has become equal to or longer than the set time X (step S73 in FIG. 6).

Here, the value of the variable COUNT is the set time X.
If it is less than the above, the above process (A) (step S in FIG. 5) is performed.
55).

On the other hand, if the value of the variable COUNT exceeds the set time X, the CPU 21 determines that the video controller 2
The "PAUSE" command is output to the print mechanism stop unit 31 of the engine control unit 3 via the control unit 6 (step S in FIG. 6).
74).

The printing mechanism stop unit 31 of the engine control unit 3
When receiving the "PAUSE" command from the video controller 26, stops the fuser, main motor, and polygon scanner motor of the printer. That is,
The printer transitions to the "SLEEP" state.

Further, the CPU 21 determines that the printer is "SL".
The network controller 1 is notified via the IO controller 22 of the transition to the "EEP" state. As a result, the line control of the network 4 is switched to the polling selecting method.

.. Then, the CPU 21 sets the value of the variable STATE to 0 in order to store that the printer is in the "SLEEP" state (step S75 in FIG. 6).

Further, the user is instructed by the printer "SLEE
The display panel 29 ₁ for informing that it is in the “P” state
The character "SLEEP" is displayed on the screen (step 76 in FIG. 6).

Further, the CPU 21 sets 1 to the value of the variable WAIT (step 77 in FIG. 6).

Here, the variable WAIT indicates the argument value of the array in the identification number storage section 134 which stores the identification number of the host device having the facsimile function request.

Then, the process shifts to the above process (A) (step S55 in FIG. 5).

.. The CPU 21 receives data from the network control means 1 (step S78 in FIG. 6).

.. The CPU 21 determines that the received data is "SLE
It is checked whether it is the "EP" command (step S79 in FIG. 6).

Here, if the received data is the "SLEEP" command, the CPU 21 sends the "PA" to the printing mechanism stop section 31 of the engine control section 3 via the video controller 26.
USE "command is output (step S74 of FIG. 6),
The process moves to the above (step S75 in FIG. 6).

The printing mechanism stopping unit 31 of the engine control unit 3
When receiving the "PAUSE" command from the video controller 26, stops the fuser, main motor, and polygon scanner motor of the printer. That is,
The printer transitions to the "SLEEP" state.

On the other hand, if the received data is not the "SLEEP" command, the data is processed (step S in FIG. 6).
80).

.. The CPU 21 further checks whether or not data has been received (step S81 in FIG. 6).

Here, if data is received, the process shifts to the above process (step S78 in FIG. 6).

On the other hand, if no data is received, the CPU 21
Sets 0 to the value of the variable COUNT (step S82 in FIG. 6). Then, the process shifts to the process (A) (step S55 in FIG. 5).

(C). In the process of (A) above, the operation when the printer is in the "SLEEP" state is shown in FIG.
It will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

In the "SLEEP" state, line control in the network 4 is performed by the polling selecting method.

-1. The network control unit 1 uses the HDL
In the C procedure, the "FAXREQ" command is transmitted to inquire whether or not the facsimile function is used to the host devices 51 to 55 connected to the network 4 (step S100 in FIG. 7).

Here, the "FAXREQ" command sets the address part to the global address in order to specify all the secondary stations and compound stations on the data link.

-2. The network control unit 1 sequentially receives responses from the host devices 51 to 55 (see FIG. 7).
It is stored together with step S101).

-1. The network control unit 1 uses the “FA
It is determined whether or not there is any unprocessed response received in response to the "XREQ" command (step S102 in FIG. 7).

-2. Here, if there is no unprocessed response, the following -1 (step S1 of FIG. 9)
25) is performed.

-3. On the other hand, if there is a response that has not been processed, it is determined whether or not the response is a “FAXREQ” response (step S103 in FIG. 7).

The "FAXREQ" response is a response indicating that there is a request for using the facsimile function.

-4. When the received response is the “FAXREQ” response, the network control unit 1 confirms whether or not the host device has an already registered identification number (steps S110 to S114 in FIG. 8). The array F in the figure is an array in which the identification number of the host device that has requested the facsimile transmission is stored.

-5. If the identification number of the “FAXREQ” response is the number already registered, the process proceeds to the above-mentioned -1 (step S102 in FIG. 7).

-6. On the other hand, if the identification number of the “FAXREQ” response is new, the identification number is registered (step S115 in FIG. 8). Then, the "REPORT" command is transmitted to the newly registered host device in order to know the content of the facsimile function request (step S117 in FIG. 8).

-7. The network control unit 1 uses the “RE
When the response from the host device to the "PORT" command is received (step S118 in FIG. 7), it is checked whether or not the response is the "REPORT" response (step S119 in FIG. 8).

The "REPORT" response is a response requesting printing of facsimile communication contents.

-8. If it is a "NON-REPORT" response, the above-mentioned -1 (step S102 in FIG. 7).
Process shifts to.

The "NON-REPORT" response is a response that does not request printing of facsimile communication contents. However, in some cases, the host device may be requested to send data of facsimile communication contents.

-1. If it is a "REPORT" response, the network control unit 1 switches the line control to the contention system and notifies the main control unit 2 of it.

-2. The CPU 21 controls the printing mechanism activation unit 32 of the engine control unit 3 via the video controller 26.
A "STAND-BY" command is issued to (step S145 in FIG. 10).

-3. The printing mechanism starting unit 32 of the engine control unit 3 causes the video controller 26 to perform “STAND-
When the "BY" command is received, the fuser, main motor, and polygon scanner motor of the printer are activated.
That is, the printer shifts to the "READY" state.

-4. Then, the CPU 21 sets the value of the variable STATE to 1 in order to store that the printer is in the "READY" state (step S146 of FIG. 10), and further sets the value of the variable COUNT to 0 ( Step S147 in FIG. 10).

-5. Further, the character "READY" is displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ to inform the user that the printer is in the "READY" state (step 148 in FIG. 10), and the above process (A) (step in FIG. 5) is performed. Then, the process proceeds to S55).

-1. -3 above (step S1 in FIG. 7)
In the process of 03), the received response is "FAX
If it is not a "REQ" response, "NON-FAXRE"
It is checked whether the response is a "Q" response (step S104 in FIG. 7).

The “NON-FAXREQ” response is a response requesting that the identification number of the host device be deleted from the registration.

-2. If it is not a "NON-FAXREQ" response, the above-mentioned -1 (step S10 in FIG. 7).
The process moves to 2).

-3. If it is a "NON-FAXREQ" response, the identification number of the host device is searched (steps S105 to S109 in FIG. 7), and if it is registered, a process of deleting it from the registration is performed (FIG. 7). Steps S120 to S124) and the above-mentioned process -1 (step S102 of FIG. 7) is performed.

-1. -1 (step S1 in FIG. 7
In the processing of 02), if there is no unprocessed response, that is, if there is no request to use the facsimile function from any host device, the “FAX” command is sent to the host device with the registered identification number. (Step S125 to step S128 in FIG. 9).

The "FAX" command is a command for inquiring whether or not the facsimile transmission data can be transmitted from the host device.

-2. When a response is received from the host device (step S129 in FIG. 9), "FAX"
It is checked whether or not it is a response (step S130 in FIG. 9).

The "FAX" response is a response indicating that the host device is ready to send facsimile transmission data.

-3. If the response from the host device is a "FAX" response, a facsimile transmission process is performed.

That is, a communication line with the host device is connected to establish a data link (step S1 in FIG. 9).
32).

Then, the data from the host device is received (step S133 in FIG. 9).

Next, the received data is output via the main controller 1, the FAX controller 5, and the public line 7 (step S134 in FIG. 9).

-4. When the facsimile transmission is completed,
The identification number of the host device is deleted from the registration (steps S136 to S140 in FIG. 9).

Then, -1 (step S12 in FIG. 9)
The process shifts to 7).

-1. In the processing of -1 above, when there is no registered identification number or when there is no facsimile transmission request, the network control unit 1 determines that the HDLC
In the procedure, a "WAKE-UP" command is transmitted to confirm the host devices 51 to 55 connected to the network 4 (step S141 in FIG. 10).

Here, the "WAKE-UP" command is
The address part is set to the global address in order to specify all secondary stations and compound stations on the data link.

-2. The network control unit 1 receives the responses from the host devices 51 to 55 (step S142 in FIG. 10).

-3. The network control unit 1 checks whether the received response is a “WAKE-UP” response, that is, the data in the information unit is a response requesting the “READY” state of the printer (step S143 in FIG. 10). .

Here, the response is "WAKE-UP".
If it is a response, the main control unit 2 is notified and the process proceeds to -5 (step S145 in FIG. 10).

On the other hand, if the response is not the "WAKE-UP" response, the process proceeds to the next process-4.

-4. The CPU 21 uses the sleep button 2
It is checked whether or not 9 ₂ is pressed (step S144 in FIG. 10).

[0122] Here, if no sleep button 29 ₂ is pressed, CPU 21 checks whether an incoming signal is received facsimile communication from a public line (step S149 in FIG. 10).

If the incoming signal of the facsimile communication is received, the process proceeds to -5 (step S145 in FIG. 10).

If the incoming signal of the facsimile communication is not received, the CPU 21 shifts the control to the network control unit 1 and checks whether or not there is an unprocessed response to the "WAKE-UP" command ( Step S150 in FIG. 10).

If there is an unprocessed response, the network control unit 1 shifts to the process of -3 (step S143 in FIG. 10). If there is no unprocessed response, the process of (A) ( Step S5 of FIG.
Go to 5).

[0126] On the other hand, if the pressed sleep button 29 _2, shifts to the next processing -5.

-5. The CPU 21 controls the printing mechanism activation unit 32 of the engine control unit 3 via the video controller 26.
A "STAND-BY" command is issued to (step S145 in FIG. 10).

The printing mechanism starting unit 32 of the engine control unit 3
From the video controller 26 to "STAND-BY"
Upon receiving the command, it activates the fuser, main motor, and polygon scanner motor of the printer. That is, the printer shifts to the "READY" state.

Further, the CPU 21 determines that the printer is "RE".
The network controller 1 is notified via the IO controller 22 of the transition to the “ADY” state. As a result, the line control of the network 4 is switched to the contention system.

Then, the CPU 21 determines that the printer is "RE".
In order to remember that the ADY state has been entered, the variable S
The value of TATE is set to 1 (step S14 in FIG. 10).
6) Further, the value of the variable COUNT is set to 0 (step S147 in FIG. 10).

Further, the user is instructed by "READ
The display panel 29 for notifying that the "Y" state has been reached.
The character "READY" is displayed on ₁ (step S148 in FIG. 10), and the process proceeds to step (A) (step S55 in FIG. 5).

(D). Menu setting process on operator panel 29

(D-1). Operation when setting time X (minutes) until the printer state shifts from the "READY" state to the "SLEEP" state when data is not continuously received from the host devices 51 to 55
This will be described with reference to FIG.

[0134] Normally, the state of the printer is displayed on the display panel 29 _1. That is, the printer
In the EADY state, the display panel 29 ₁ displays “REAM”.
The letters "DY" are displayed, and the printer displays "SL
When in the "EEP" state, "SLEE" is displayed on the display panel 29 _1.
The letter "P" is displayed.

.. When “READY” is displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ (step S30 in FIG. 11), if the menu button 29 ₃ is pressed, the CPU 21 is notified via the I / O controller 22 and the display panel 29 ₃ is notified. The display content of ₁ is changed to "SETTIME" (step S32 of FIG. 11). As a result, the operator is notified that the mode has been changed to the set time change mode.

.. The display panel 29 ₁ displays “SET TIM
When "E" is displayed, press menu button 2
When 9 ₃ is pressed, the content displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ is changed to "1.
It is changed to a numerical value of 5 "(unit is minute) (step S33 in FIG. 11). Here, 15 minutes is the minimum value of the set time.

.. When the "15" on the display panel 29 ₁ is displayed, further when the menu button 29 ₃ is pressed, changing the numerical display contents of the display panel 29 ₁ of "30" (in minutes) (Fig. 11 Step S3
4).

.. After that, each time the menu button 29 ₃ is pressed, the display content of the display panel 29 ₁ is increased at intervals of 15 minutes (step S35 in FIG. 11).

.. When "480" is displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ (step S36 in FIG. 11), when the menu button 29 ₃ is further pressed, the display panel 29 ₁
The display content of is returned to the minimum value "15" (step S33 of FIG. 11). That is, the maximum value is 480 minutes.

.. When the display content of the display panel 29 _{1 is} the display of the time desired by the operator, the operator confirms
When you press the return button 29 ₄ , the I / O controller 2
2 is notified to the CPU 21.

Further, the time value displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ at that time is C through the I / O controller 22.
EEP after being sent to PU21 and processed data etc.
It is stored in the ROM 23.

(D-2). The operation when the operator forcibly changes the state of the printer using the operator panel 29 will be described with reference to FIG.

.. When “READY” is displayed on the display panel 29 ₁ (step S30 in FIG. 11), if the sleep button 29 ₂ is pressed, a “PAUSE” command is output to the CPU 21 via the I / O controller 22. , The display content of the display panel 29 ₁ is changed to “SLEE
P ”(step S31 in FIG. 11). CPU2
1 shifts to the process-2 of the above (B).

.. On the other hand, the display panel 29 ₁ displays “SLEE
When P "is displayed, when the sleep button 29 ₂ is pressed, the" STAND-BY "command after outputting the CPU21 via the I / O controller 22, the display content of the display panel 29 _1" READY Change to ". Then, the process shifts to the above process (C) -5.

(E). Detailed operation of the network control means 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 12 to 13.

(E-1). A case will be described with reference to FIG. 12B where the printer control request is issued from the host devices 51 to 55 when the line control is the polling selecting method and the printer is in the "SLEEP" state. In this case, the network control means 1 is a control station and the host devices 51 to 55 are subordinate stations.

.. Polling selecting control unit 13
Outputs a “WAKE-UP” command to the network interface unit 14.

.. Network interface unit 1
4 indicates “W” from the polling / selecting control unit 13.
The AKE-UP "command is converted into a data format suitable for the host devices 51 to 55 and output to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4.

Here, the "WAKE-UP" command is
The address part is set to the global address in order to specify all secondary stations and compound stations on the data link.

.. Polling selecting control unit 13
Request a response from the first host computer 51.
Assuming that the power supply is in the “off” state as shown in (b), no response is returned to the “WAKE-UP” command.

The polling selecting control unit 13
If a response from the first host computer 51 cannot be received even after a certain period of time, a response is requested from the second host computer 52.

The second host computer 52 is shown in FIG.
Assuming that the process that does not require the printer is performed as shown in (b), a "NON WAKE-UP" response is returned to the "WAKE-UP" command.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a response from the second host computer 52 via the network 4, the device 4 converts the response into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling selecting control unit 13.

The polling selecting control unit 13
The response from the network interface unit 14 is output to the network data monitoring unit 15.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 outputs the response from the polling / selecting control unit 13 to the main control unit 2. With this, the printer
It remains in the "LEEP" state.

Also, the network data monitoring section 15
Since the response is a "NON WAKE-UP" response, the line control switching control unit 11 is not notified.

.. Polling selecting control unit 13
Requests a response from the third host computer 53.

The third host computer 53 is shown in FIG.
Assuming that a process requiring a printer is being performed as shown in (b), a "WAKE-UP" response is returned to the "WAKE-UP" command.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a response from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the device 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling / selecting controller 13.

The polling selecting control unit 13
The response from the network interface unit 14 is output to the network data monitoring unit 15.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 outputs the response from the polling / selecting control unit 13 to the main control unit 2. As a result, the printer transitions to the "READY" state.

Further, the network data monitoring unit 15 is
Since the response is the “WAKE-UP” response, the line control switching control unit 11 is notified.

.. When the line control switching control unit 11 receives the notification of the “WAKE-UP” response from the network data monitoring unit 15, it switches the line control from the polling selecting system to the contention system by using the network interface unit 14 and the polling system. It notifies the selecting control unit 13, the contention control unit 12, and the network data monitoring unit 15.

The network data monitoring unit 15 switches the communication target with the main control unit 2 from the polling selecting control unit 13 to the contention control unit 12. That is, the data received from the main controller 2 is output to the contention controller 12 and the data from the contention controller 12 is transmitted to the main controller 2.

Further, the network interface section 14 switches the communication target with the host devices 51 to 55 from the polling selecting control section 13 to the contention control section 12. That is, the data received from the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4 is output to the contention control unit 12 and the data from the contention control unit 12 is transmitted to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4.

(E-2). A case in which the "SLEEP" request is issued from the host devices 51 to 55 when the line control is the contention system and the printer is in the "READY" state will be described with reference to FIG.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a transmission request from the first host computer 51 via the network 4, the data conversion unit 4 converts the data into an internal data format and outputs the data to the contention control unit 12.

The contention control section 12 outputs a transmission permission to the first host computer 51 to the network interface section 14 as a response to the transmission request from the first host computer 51.

.. Network interface unit 1
4 is the first permission for transmission from the contention control unit 12.
Is converted into a data format suitable for the host computer 51 and output to the first host computer 51 via the network 4.

Upon receiving the transmission permission, the first host computer 51 outputs a command / data other than the "SLEEP" command to the network 4.

.. Network interface unit 1
When the command / data from the first host computer 51 is received via the network 4, the device 4 converts the command / data to the internal data format and outputs it to the contention controller 12.

The contention control unit 12 outputs the command / data from the network interface unit 14 to the network data monitoring unit 15.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 outputs the command / data from the contention control unit 12 to the main control unit 2. Now, the printer is
It remains in the "DY" state.

Also, the network data monitoring unit 15 is
Since the command / data from the contention controller 12 is not the "SLEEP" command, the line control switching controller 11 is not notified.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a transmission request from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the data conversion unit 4 converts the data into an internal data format and outputs the data to the contention control unit 12.

The contention control unit 12 outputs a transmission permission to the third host computer 53 to the network interface unit 14 as a response to the transmission request from the third host computer 53.

.. Network interface unit 1
4 is the third permission for transmission from the contention control unit 12.
The data format is converted to a data format suitable for the host computer 53 and output to the third host computer 53 via the network 4.

Upon receiving the transmission permission, the third host computer 53 outputs the "SLEEP" command to the network 4.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a command from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the device 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the contention controller 12.

The contention control unit 12 outputs the command from the network interface unit 14 to the network data monitoring unit 15.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 outputs the command from the contention control unit 12 to the main control unit 2. As a result, the printer becomes "SLEEP".
Transition to the state.

Further, the network data monitoring unit 15 is
The command from the contention controller 12 is "SLEE
Since it is a "P" command, the line control switching control unit 11 is notified.

.. When the line control switching control unit 11 receives the notification of the “SLEEP” command from the network data monitoring unit 15, it switches the line control from the contention system to the polling selecting system,
Network interface unit 14, polling selection control unit 13, and contention control unit 1
2, and notifies the network data monitoring unit 15.

The network data monitoring unit 15 switches the communication target with the main control unit 2 from the contention control unit 12 to the polling selecting control unit 13. That is, the data received from the main control unit 2 is output to the polling / selecting control unit 13 and the data from the polling / selecting control unit 13 is transmitted to the main control unit 2.

Further, the network interface section 14 switches the communication target with the host devices 51 to 55 from the contention control section 12 to the polling selecting control section 13. That is, the data received from the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4 is output to the polling selecting control unit 13 and the data from the polling selecting control unit 13 is transmitted to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4. To do.

(E-3). A case will be described in which the line control is the polling selecting method, and when the printer is in the "SLEEP" state, a "READY" request is issued from the operator panel 29.

.. Upon receiving the “READY” command from the main control unit 2, the network data monitoring unit 15 notifies the line control switching control unit 11 of the command.

.. Upon receiving the notification of the "READY" command from the network data monitoring unit 15, the line control switching control unit 11 switches the line control from the polling selection system to the contention system, and the network interface unit 14 and the polling selection system. Control unit 13 and contention control unit 12
Then, the network data monitoring unit 15 is notified.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 switches the communication target with the main control unit 2 from the polling selecting control unit 13 to the contention control unit 12.

That is, the data received from the main controller 2 is output to the contention controller 12 and
The data from the contention controller 12 is transmitted to the main controller 2.

.. Further, the network interface unit 14 switches the communication target with the host devices 51 to 55 from the polling selecting control unit 13 to the contention control unit 12. That is, the data received from the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4 is output to the contention control unit 12 and the data from the contention control unit 12 is transmitted to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4.

(E-4). The case where the line control is the contention system and the operator panel 29 issues a "SLEEP" request when the printer is in the "READY" state will be described.

.. Upon receiving the “SLEEP” command from the main control unit 2, the network data monitoring unit 15 notifies the line control switching control unit 11.

.. When the line control switching control unit 11 receives the notification of the “SLEEP” command from the network data monitoring unit 15, it switches the line control from the contention system to the polling selecting system,
Network interface unit 14, polling selection control unit 13, and contention control unit 1
2, and notifies the network data monitoring unit 15.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 controls the contention control unit 12 to communicate with the main control unit 2.
To the polling / selecting control unit 13.

That is, the data received from the main control unit 2 is output to the polling / selecting control unit 13 and the data from the polling / selecting control unit 13 is transmitted to the main control unit 2.

.. Further, the network interface unit 14 switches the communication target with the host devices 51 to 55 from the contention control unit 12 to the polling selecting control unit 13. That is, the data received from the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4 is output to the polling selecting control unit 13 and the data from the polling selecting control unit 13 is transmitted to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4. To do.

(E-5). The operation will be described when the main control unit 2 makes an inquiry about the current line control method.

.. When receiving the inquiry command of the line control method from the main control unit 2, the network data monitoring unit 15 notifies the line control switching control unit 11.

.. When the line control switching control unit 11 receives the notification of the line control system inquiry command from the network data monitoring unit 15, the network data monitoring unit 15 sends a response indicating whether the current line control system is the contention system or the polling selecting system. To notify.

.. The network data monitoring unit 15 sends the response from the line control switching control unit 11 to the main control unit 2
Send to.

(E-6). A case where a request to use the facsimile function is issued from the host devices 51 to 55 when the line control is the polling selecting method and the printer is in the "SLEEP" state will be described with reference to FIG. In this case, the network control means 1 is a control station and the host devices 51 to 55 are subordinate stations.

.. In the network data monitoring unit 15,
The transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ is sent from the main controller 2 to
When the "XREQ" command is received, it is output to the polling selecting control unit 13 via the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₄ .

In the polling / selecting control unit 13, the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ receives the “FAXREQ” command from the network data monitoring unit 15 and outputs it to the line control unit 13 ₃ .

The line controller 13 ₃ sends and receives the transmitted / received data I / F.
The “FAXREQ” command from 13 ₁ is output to the network interface unit 14 via the polling / selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ .

.. Network interface unit 1
4 indicates “F” from the polling selecting control unit 13.
The “AXREQ” command is converted into a data format suitable for the host devices 51 to 55 and output to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4.

[0207] Here, the "FAXREQ" command sets the address part to the global address in order to specify all the secondary stations and compound stations on the data link.

.. Polling selecting control unit 13
Request a response from the first host computer 51.
Assuming that the power supply is in the "off" state as shown in (a), no response is returned to the "FAXREQ" command.

[0209] The polling selecting control unit 13
If the response from the first host computer 51 cannot be received even after a certain period of time, the second host computer 52 is requested to respond.

The second host computer 52 is shown in FIG.
Assuming that the processing that does not require the facsimile function is performed as shown in (a), a "NON FAXREQ" response is returned to the "FAXREQ" command.

.. Network interface unit 1
Upon receipt of the “NON FAXREQ” response from the second host computer 52 via the network 4, the No. 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling selecting control unit 13.

In the polling / selecting control unit 13, the polling / selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13
₅ receives the response from the network interface unit 14, and further outputs it to the network data monitoring unit 15 via the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ .

Further, the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ is "N
The "ON FAX REQ" response is also output to the line control unit 13 ₃ .

.. In the network data monitoring unit 15,
When the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ receives the response from the polling selecting control unit 13, it outputs it to the main control unit 2 via the response analysis unit 15 ₃ for the inquiry and the transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ . At this point, the printer remains in the "SLEEP" state.

The line controller 13 ₃ searches the identification number storage 13 ₄ for the identification number of the host device extracted from the “NON FAXREQ” response.
If it was registered, delete it from the registration.

.. Next, the polling selecting control unit 13 requests a response from the third host computer 53.

The third host computer 53 shown in FIG.
Assuming that a process requiring a facsimile function is being performed as shown in (a), a "FAXREQ" response is returned to the "FAXREQ" command.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a response from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the device 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling / selecting controller 13.

In the polling / selecting control unit 13, the polling / selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13
₅ receives the response from the network interface unit 14, and further outputs it to the network data monitoring unit 15 via the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ .

Further, the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ is "F
The AXREQ ”response is also output to the line control unit 13 ₃ .

.. In the network data monitoring unit 15,
When the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ receives the response from the polling selecting control unit 13, it outputs it to the main control unit 2 via the response analysis unit 15 ₃ for the inquiry and the transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ . At this point, the printer remains in the "SLEEP" state.

The line control unit 13 ₃ also registers the identification number of the host device extracted from the “FAXREQ” response in the identification number storage unit 13 ₄ .

(E-7). A case where a facsimile printing request is issued from the host devices 51 to 55 when the line control is the polling selecting method and the printer is in the "SLEEP" state will be described with reference to FIG. In this case, the network control means 1 is a control station and the host devices 51 to 55 are subordinate stations.

.. The line control unit 13 ₃ creates a “REPORT” command designating the third host computer 53 based on the command information data from the inquiry information data editing unit 13 ₂ and the address information from the identification number storage unit 13 ₄ and performs polling. Selective transmission / reception data I
/ F13 ₅ via the output to the network interface unit 14.

.. Network interface unit 1
4 indicates “R” from the polling selecting control unit 13.
The "EPORT" command is converted into a data format suitable for the host devices 51 to 55, and is output to the third host computer 53 via the network 4.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a response from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the device 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling / selecting controller 13.

In the polling / selecting control section 13, the polling / selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13
₅ receives the response from the network interface unit 14, and further outputs it to the network data monitoring unit 15 via the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ .

The transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ also outputs a response to the line controller 13 ₃ .

.. In the network data monitoring unit 15,
When the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ receives the response from the polling selecting control unit 13, it outputs it to the main control unit 2 via the response analysis unit 15 ₃ for the inquiry and the transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ . Here, if the response is the “REPORT” response, the printer transitions to the “READY” state, but if it is the “NON REPORT” response,
The printer remains in the "SLEEP" state.

[0230] Further, the response analysis unit 15 for the inquiry
_If the response is a "REPORT" response, ₃ notifies the line control switching control unit 11 via the monitoring control unit 15 ₅ .

.. Upon receiving the “REPORT” response notification from the network data monitoring unit 15, the line control switching control unit 11 switches the line control from the polling selection system to the contention system by using the network interface unit 14 and the polling selection system. The control unit 13, the contention control unit 12, and the network data monitoring unit 15 are notified.

The network data monitoring unit 15 switches the communication target with the main control unit 2 from the polling selecting control unit 13 to the contention control unit 12. That is, the data received from the main controller 2 is output to the contention controller 12 and the data from the contention controller 12 is transmitted to the main controller 2.

Further, the network interface section 14 switches the communication target with the host devices 51 to 55 from the polling selecting control section 13 to the contention control section 12. That is, the data received from the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4 is output to the contention control unit 12 and the data from the contention control unit 12 is transmitted to the host devices 51 to 55 via the network 4.

(E-8). A case where a facsimile transmission request is issued from the host devices 51 to 55 when the line control is the polling selecting method and the printer is in the "SLEEP" state will be described with reference to FIG. In this case, the network control means 1 is a control station and the host devices 51 to 55 are subordinate stations.

.. The line control unit 13 ₃ creates a “FAX” command designating the third host computer 53 based on the command information data from the inquiry information data editing unit 13 ₂ and the address information from the identification number storage unit 13 ₄ and performs polling. Selective transmission / reception data I / F1
It is output to the network interface unit 14 via 3 ₅ .

.. Network interface unit 1
4 indicates “F” from the polling selecting control unit 13.
The "AX" command is converted into a data format suitable for the host devices 51 to 55 and output to the third host computer 53 via the network 4.

.. Network interface unit 1
When receiving a response from the third host computer 53 via the network 4, the device 4 converts it into an internal data format and outputs it to the polling / selecting controller 13.

In the polling / selecting control unit 13, the polling / selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13
₅ receives the response from the network interface unit 14, and further outputs it to the network data monitoring unit 15 via the transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ .

The transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₁ also outputs a response to the line controller 13 ₃ .

.. In the network data monitoring unit 15,
When the polling selecting transmission / reception data I / F 13 ₅ receives the response from the polling selecting control unit 13, it outputs it to the main control unit 2 via the response analysis unit 15 ₃ for the inquiry and the transmission / reception data I / F 15 ₆ .

When the main control section 2 receives the “FAX” response, the main control section 2 performs facsimile transmission via the FAX control section 5. However, the printer remains in the "SLEEP" state.

In the above-mentioned embodiment, the CPU (central processing unit) is separately provided for the main controller 2 and the network controller 1.
Although the case where the processing of the main control unit 2 is reduced by having the above has been described, it is possible to implement even if the CPU is shared.

As described above, when the user of the computer connected to the network activates the application software having the facsimile processing function while the printer is in the SLEEP (power saving) state, the computer operates as "WAKE-printer" of the printer. "WA" for the "UP" command
Since the printer responds with the "KE-UP" response or the "REPORT" response to the "REPORT" command, the printer can immediately shift to the READY (printable) state before receiving the print data.
Therefore, it is possible to realize high-speed printing processing without increasing power consumption.

When the printing operation is not required in the facsimile operation, if the "NOPORT-REPORT" response is sent in response to the "REPORT" command, the facsimile transmission is performed in the power saving state, so that the power consumption is remarkably reduced. To be

Since the power saving state is continued when the printing operation is not required, the power consumption is remarkably reduced, and the normal state is immediately returned when the printing operation is required. Therefore, the print data other than the facsimile transmission is transmitted. Even in this case, the print processing speed of the first sheet is significantly increased.

[0246]

Since the present invention is constructed and functions as described above, according to the present invention, even when a facsimile operation is performed, it is possible to continue the power saving state when the printing operation is not necessary, which results in the power consumption. It is possible to provide an excellent laser printer which has never been used, which makes it possible to realize high-speed printing processing without increasing the number of printers.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a detailed configuration diagram of network control means in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a detailed configuration diagram of a network data monitoring unit in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a detailed configuration diagram of a polling selecting control unit in FIG.

5 is a schematic flowchart for explaining the operation of the embodiment in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a detailed flowchart in a standby state for explaining the operation of the embodiment of FIG.

7 is a diagram showing a part of a first detailed flow chart in a power saving state for explaining the operation of the embodiment in FIG. 1. FIG.

8 is a diagram showing another part of the first detailed flow chart in the power saving state of the embodiment in FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 9 is a second detailed flowchart in a power saving state for explaining the operation of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 10 is a third detailed flowchart in a power saving state for explaining the operation of the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 11 is a state transition diagram for explaining the operation of the operator panel in FIG.

12A and 12B are diagrams showing an operation at a normal printing function in the network control means of FIG. 1, wherein FIG. 12A shows a state of receiving a transmission request and FIG. 12B shows a state of outputting a command. It is an explanatory view shown.

13 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the network control means of FIG. 1 at the time of the facsimile function.
13A is a diagram showing a case where a FAXREQ command is output, FIG. 13B is a diagram showing a case where a REPORT command is outputted, and FIG. 13C is an explanatory diagram showing a case where a FAX command is outputted.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 network control means (host interface) 2 main control unit 3 engine control unit 4 network 5 FAX control unit 6 power supply device 7 public line 11 line control method switching control unit 12 contention control unit 13 polling selecting control unit 14 network interface Section 15 network data monitoring section 31 printing mechanism stopping section 32 printing mechanism starting section 51 first host computer 52 second host computer 53 third host computer 54 fourth host computer 55 modem

Claims (2)

[Claims] 1. An engine control unit for stopping the printing mechanism when receiving a stop request and for starting the printing mechanism when receiving a start request, and for outputting a printing mechanism start request by a print command from the host computer and for communicating with the host computer. A laser printer, comprising: a network control unit for changing a communication control method; and a main control unit for outputting a stop request and a start request of a printing mechanism to the engine control unit according to an instruction from the network control unit. . 2. The network control means analyzes the facsimile control signal received from the host computer when the printing mechanism is in a stopped state, and if the analysis result is a print request, the polling selecting method is changed to the contention method. 2. The laser printer according to claim 1, further comprising a facsimile control signal analysis unit that changes the communication control method and outputs a print mechanism activation request to the main control unit.