JP2001326766A - Image processing system, image data processing method and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing system which is easy in the connection of equipment and excellent in convenience. SOLUTION: In the image processing system constituted by connecting a host device 100 for reading and performing program data stored in a read only storage medium 120 and equipment 1 added with a card device function, the equipment connected to the system has a communication control part 11 for controlling communication between the host device and the equipment and a card control part 30 for controlling a card device 200, the host device has a recognition part for recognizing the equipment connected by the communication control part and a driver detection part for automatically detecting driver software optimal to the equipment recognized by the recognition part, and the card control part determines the suitability of the detected driver software and the card device to automatically update a program for controlling the card device.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing system including, for example, a printer device having a detachable card device and having a connection function and a host device. The card device includes a communication control unit for exchanging information between host devices, and the printer device relates to an image processing system, an image data processing method, and a storage medium that execute printing according to information from the card device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, information devices such as personal computers (hereinafter, referred to as PCs) have been remarkably prevalent in general households. In addition, an infrastructure environment in which anyone can easily use information on a network such as the Internet has been enhanced, and on the other hand, so-called digital home appliances such as digital cameras and digital video cameras have also become popular. Against this background, printers for producing desired printouts have rapidly spread to homes.

[0003] By connecting these devices to a PC,
A so-called multimedia environment has been established in which an image taken by a digital camera or the like can be printed or posted on an e-mail or a website via the Internet. In many cases, installation work is required to construct these use environments. That is, it is necessary to install an application program to be used, a device driver for using a device to be connected, and the like in the PC in advance, and connect the device to a predetermined I / O port. That is, by performing these installation operations reliably, a desired function can be used for the first time.

[0004] However, the work requires a certain degree of expertise and correct understanding of manuals and the like, making it difficult for users, such as beginners, children and the elderly, to use these functions, and mentally. There was a problem of putting a burden.

[0005]

A conventional configuration will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 38 is a diagram illustrating an example of a conventional configuration, and is a system configuration diagram using a personal computer (hereinafter, PC). Reference numeral 500 denotes a main body of the PC, and a monitor 501 is connected to a video circuit (not shown) and can output characters and images.

As shown in the figure, many devices are connected to the PC body, and a keyboard 503 for inputting characters and the like is provided.
A mouse 50 which is one of pointing devices for operating an input designated position such as a pointer on a screen;
4 and the printer 505 that performs the desired print output
A CD (compact disk reader) 506, which is connected to the I / F port 507 and records information necessary for installing applications and the like, and is readable from a CD-ROM (compact disk ROM), and a floppy disk (not shown) (Trademark) disk unit, CD506, hard disk for installing applications and device drivers recorded on floppy disk and storing programs, or flash ROM (electrically rewritable memory) and working memory A large-capacity memory 502, a modem for connecting to a network 511 such as an external Internet, an external I / F 510 including a network communication circuit, a digital home appliance 512 such as a digital camera, and other external devices. To connect device 509 An I / O port 508 is provided.

In the above-described conventional configuration, in order to connect and use a desired application program purchased by a user and devices such as a printer and a digital camera, a storage device such as an attached floppy disk or CD-ROM is required. It is necessary to install such program / data on a hard disk or the like in advance for program information supplied by a medium or a file obtained through the Internet or the like. For this reason, there is a disadvantage that the storage capacity of an expensive hard disk is reduced when using an application or a connected device.

In many cases, it is necessary to restart the personal computer once before starting use of a desired application or connected device after the installation work, and a setup time until the use of the application or connected device is started. There was a drawback of hanging.

Further, as shown in FIG. 38, it is necessary to attach optional boards such as an I / F port, an I / O card, and an external I / F to the PC main body in order to connect various devices. Often.

In most cases when installing the option board, first turn off the power of the device connected to the PC and the power of the PC body, open the housing cover of the PC body, and perform a predetermined operation.
Insert the option board into the I / O slot, screw it down, close the housing cover, turn on the power again, start the system, and then use the installed option board. Complicated work such as installing the optimal device driver etc. in advance on the hard disk etc., in the worst case, restarting the system again, and then installing the device driver etc. of the target connection device to be connected to the option board is required There was a disadvantage.

The above-mentioned option card or the control circuit of the device built in the PC main body often contains a ROM or the like for controlling each function. In recent years, by adopting flash ROMs (electrically erasable and rewritable ROMs) for these ROMs, the contents of the ROMs have been made rewritable, enabling users to take measures against bugs and upgrade their version even after purchase. There are many.

[0012] However, the work of rewriting the contents of the ROM is generally performed by the user and is often provided in the form of user responsibility. That is, this task generally requires considerable expertise.

For example, confirming the version of the ROM to be rewritten, obtaining an appropriate version-up program, etc.
This requires rewriting operations in a special operation environment and requires careful attention. In the worst case, a wrong operation may prevent the system from booting or even disable some or all functions.

That is, such a version upgrade service method has a drawback that it is difficult and unacceptable for general users.

Next, a functional purpose of "printing an image taken by a digital camera" in a conventional configuration will be considered. First, the digital camera and the printer are connected to the PC as described above, and the necessary device drivers and applications for both are installed in the hard disk or the like in advance. Then, by selecting and launching the installed predetermined application, the desired image from the digital camera is once taken into a storage device such as a hard disk of a PC, and a print instruction is issued after connecting a printer, and then printing is performed for the first time. It can be output. In other words, the functions that the user originally desires, such as "I want to take and print a photo"
In a sense, there was a disadvantage that the user had to spend a great deal of effort in realizing a simple function.

FIGS. 39 and 40 are diagrams for explaining another conventional configuration different from the above. These configurations are examples of a conventional configuration in which the convenience of the "print an image taken by a digital camera" function is improved, and the printer has a so-called direct printing function.

In both figures, a memory 530 shown in the figures is a memory device that can be attached to a digital camera.
It is composed of a nonvolatile memory. When an image taken by a digital camera is stored in this memory and the taken image is printed, the memory 530 is removed from the digital camera,
A desired image can be printed out by being attached to the adapter 520 or the printer 540 and performing a printing operation on the operation panel 521 or 541.

As the image data stored in the memory 530, so-called JPEG format data is often used. To print out the image data, an adapter 520 is used.
Alternatively, the printer 540 has an image processing function.
These devices print and output while expanding, reducing, and enlarging image information such as JPEG.

For this purpose, a high-speed CPU, complicated hardware, and a large amount of memory are used to generate print data at high speed, such as image processing and color processing. There was a drawback that it became expensive.
Further, since the operation panels 520 and 541 are composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and many operation buttons, the cost of the apparatus is further increased, but the size of the apparatus is increased by increasing the physical area of the operation section. There have been drawbacks such as an increase in size and a decrease in operability related to a lack of expressiveness such as an operation designation state using a small display device such as an LCD.

Further, in the above-described conventional configuration, when printing is performed by a printer device, the user needs to perform an operation of setting the type of a print medium such as paper to be printed out in accordance with the print output quality of a target image to be printed out. If the setting operation is erroneous due to an erroneous operation or the like, print output contrary to the user's expectation, for example, when the printing apparatus is an ink jet printer,
There is a drawback that the print output quality is lowered due to hue, bleeding, ink overflow, and the like.

In addition, although a print medium for outputting a high-quality image is generally expensive, there is a disadvantage in that the expensive print medium is wasted due to an erroneous operation or the like.

In the above-mentioned conventional configuration, for example, while spending a moment of harmony at home in a living room or the like and wanting to immediately print out a photograph taken by a digital camera or the like, the user bother to go to the location of the personal computer. There was also a disadvantage that convenience was not good, such as going to print.

[0023]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-described conventional example, and has as its object to provide a home-use image processing system which can be easily used by anyone, eliminating difficult work such as installation. And

[0024] In order to solve the above problems and achieve the object of the present invention, an image processing system and the like according to the present invention are characterized mainly by the following configuration.

That is, an image processing system configured by connecting a host device that reads and executes program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function, wherein the device is connected to the system. A communication control unit for controlling communication between the host device and the device, a card interface connected to a card device, and a card control unit for controlling a card device detachably connectable to the card interface. Communication means for mutually sharing device information between the host device and the card device via the card control means and communication control means, and information shared by the communication means, Control means for making available to other devices connected via the device. The card control includes: a recognition unit that recognizes a device connected by the communication control unit; and a driver detection unit that automatically detects driver software optimal for the device recognized by the recognition unit. The means determines compatibility between the detected driver software and the card device, and automatically updates a control program of the card device.

An image data processing method for exchanging information between a host device for reading and executing program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function and processing the data. A communication control process for controlling communication between the host device and the device, a process of connecting to the card device via a card interface, and a card device detachably connectable to the card interface. A card control step of controlling, a communication step for mutually sharing device information between the host device and the card device through the processing of the card control step and the communication control step, and a processing of the communication step Makes the information shared by other devices available to other devices connected via the card device. Control step, a recognition step of recognizing a device connected by the processing of the communication control step, and a driver detection step of automatically detecting an optimal driver software for the device recognized by the processing of the recognition step. ,
The processing of the card control step is characterized in that compatibility between the detected driver software and the card device is determined, and a control program of the card device is automatically updated.

An image data processing method for exchanging information between a host device for reading and executing program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function and processing data is provided. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program code to be executed by a computer, the program code comprising: a code for a communication control step for controlling communication between the host device and a device; and a card interface. A code for a process of connecting to a card device via a PC, a code for a card control process for controlling a card device detachably connectable to the card interface, a code for the card control process, and a process for a code for a communication control process. Device between the host device and the card device via And a control step for making the information shared by the processing of the code of the communication step available to other devices connected via the card device. Code, a recognition step of recognizing a device connected by the processing of the communication control step, and a code of a driver detection step of automatically detecting driver software optimal for the device recognized by the processing of the code in the recognition step. Wherein the processing of the code in the card control step judges the compatibility between the detected driver software and the card device, and automatically updates a control program of the card device. Image data processing method.

It is characterized by having:

[0029]

(Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an image processing system to which the present invention can be applied.

Reference numeral 100 denotes a configuration of the host device. Reference numeral 110 denotes a system main control unit of the host device, which is an SCT 111 (system control unit) described later, and a time at which information such as a file is stored in a memory. An RTC 112 (real-time clock) for generating a stamp, a clock / calendar function, a print start time, and the like is provided.

The SCT 111 (system control unit) is a CPU (Central Control Unit) that controls the entire system (not shown).
Processor unit).

RAM which is a storage device capable of reading and writing a desired program / data upon request from a CPU or the like
12. It has a system bus control unit for controlling an address bus and a data bus in the system main control unit.

Further, C is used for the RAM and each control unit.
DMA (direct memory access) control unit that performs high-speed read / write control without using a PU, a timer control unit that can be used for time control by each control unit in the system main control unit, and reads out a boot-up program when the system starts up ROM (electrically erasable / rewritable R
OM), an image input / output control unit for outputting desired characters and images to the DISP 140 (image input / output device), or inputting an image output to the DISP.

Further, a voice input / output control unit for outputting voice and music to the AUD 140 (voice input / output device) and inputting voice from the AUD, and controls an operation input from the CP 130 (operation panel). Operation input control unit, RDV
A read control unit for reading a desired program / data from a 120 (read only storage device) in accordance with an instruction from a CPU / DMA, etc .; An external memory control unit for reading and writing desired data from and to an external device via an external interface bus BUS1
An external interface control unit 1 for reading / writing data from / to a DV 170 (external connection device); an external interface control unit 2 for transmitting / receiving data to / from a printer device 1 described later via an external interface bus BUS2;
And a power supply unit for supplying power to the circuit and the device.

The CP 130 (operation panel) is a device for giving an operation instruction from a user, and is composed of a cursor key, a joystick, a plurality of operation buttons, a status confirmation LED, and the like.

The RDV 120 (read only storage device) is a CD-ROM (compact disc ROM), DVD
-ROM (Digital Video Disk ROM), DV
A storage medium such as D (Digital Video Disk) can be arbitrarily read by an instruction from the CPU or the like.

The storage medium stores in advance programs / data required for control as shown in the following (1) to (9) as necessary.

(1) Control programs such as device drivers and libraries (2) Application programs (3) Font (character generation) information (4) Still image information (5) Audio information (6) Moving image information (7) Dictionary Information (8) Management information (9) Other information The storage medium is designed to prohibit unauthorized copying, etc. The information can be read only from a specific program such as an application, and the information can be read and used arbitrarily by a user. What can be done can be identified.

By configuring the storage medium in this manner, protection such as copyright is performed. system·
Main control unit is RDV 120 (read only storage device)
When it is recognized that the storage medium described in the above section is inserted, the device driver, library, application program, data, etc. are transferred from the storage medium to the RA.
M and the like and the execution of a desired program is started.

In this embodiment, a read-only storage medium such as a CD-ROM is employed.
It is also possible to employ a writable medium such as R (recordable CD-ROM) and CD-RW (erasable / writable CD-ROM), and a mask ROM composed of a semiconductor as a storage medium. , EPROM, EEPROM
The same applies to the case where an OM or a flash ROM is used. In that case, the RDV 120 should be set according to the storage medium to be adopted.
(Read-only storage device) may be changed, and it is needless to say that a person skilled in the art can easily cope with the change.

According to these configurations, cumbersome setup work such as installation as in the case of using a conventional personal computer is not required, and a storage device such as a hard disk is not required.

DISP 140 for outputting desired characters and images
(Image input / output device) and AU to output audio, music, etc.
As a D140 (audio input / output device), for example, a home TV
Can be adopted. By doing so, it becomes possible to install an image processing system sharing a TV in a place where a TV is placed, such as a living room at home. If the user wants to output high image quality and high sound quality,
It is also possible to output to a monitor, audio amplifier, etc. Furthermore, it is also possible to input images and sounds from a TV device or the like, and if digital communication is possible with a TV device or the like that supports digital broadcasting whose service will be started soon, other than images and sounds. Exchange of information is also possible.

The PCD 150 (extension unit) is, for example,
An extension unit conforming to PCMCIA is employed, and in this embodiment, a modem or a network control unit is mounted to connect to an external Internet / network. Of course, it is possible to incorporate a modem in advance in place of the PCD 150 (expansion unit), but this configuration is used in consideration of an increase in the cost of the device and a loss of versatility. because,
For example, even with a built-in modem, a cable modem network connection unit is required to connect to a rapidly spreading cable television network, and a TA (terminal adapter) is required to connect to ISDN. This is necessary because there are various environments and means depending on the user when implementing functions such as connecting to the Internet.

The EMM 180 (external memory) is a storage means capable of storing user information, control programs, and the like. For example, in this embodiment, a flash ROM (an electrically erasable and rewritable ROM).

BUS1 is an EDV 170 (external connection device)
What is necessary is just a so-called external interface bus capable of performing two-way communication for connection to, for example, in the present embodiment, a high-speed serial bus conforming to IEEE 1394 (up to 400 Mbit / sec) is adopted and connected. It enables high-speed communication with digital home appliances such as digital cameras and digital video cameras.
In addition, this IEEE 1394 high-speed serial bus allows a plurality of devices to be built in a star connection on a single external interface bus via a hub device or the like, so that many devices can be connected at the same time.

The EDV 170 (external connection device) is a digital device connectable on the BUS1 external interface bus, such as a digital camera, a digital video camera, a digital audio device, a digital video, a digital tuner,
It is a personal computer or the like.

The BUS 2 only needs to be an external interface bus capable of bidirectional communication for connecting the printer device 1. For example, in this embodiment, a USB-compliant high-speed serial bus (up to 12 Mbit / sec) is employed. are doing.

Also, since this USB-compliant high-speed serial bus can be constructed in a star connection on a single external interface bus via a hub device or the like, an optional device group 300 is connected. For example, as shown in FIG.
(Keyboard input device), and devices such as a PDV 320 (pointing device) such as a mouse / touch pad can be connected at the same time to easily indicate an input position / GUI operation selection.

Next, the printer 1 of the present embodiment will be described. The printer device 1 is a printing mechanism P including a printer control unit 10 and a print head / transport mechanism.
U 20 (printer unit), CCT 30 (card controller) for controlling a CDV 200 (card device) described later, and PWR 50 (power supply) for supplying power to the printer controller 10 and the CCT 30 (card controller). It is configured.

The printer control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processor Unit) for controlling the entire printer apparatus and various control logic units.
CT11 (printer control circuit), RAM12, which is a storage device capable of reading and writing desired programs / data upon request from a CPU, etc., and readout of control programs / data for performing interface control, printing control, etc. of the entire printer apparatus. The ROM 13 (electrically erasable / rewritable ROM may be used).

PCT 11 (printer control circuit) has a ROM
13. A CPU for controlling the operation of the entire printer in accordance with a control program stored in the RAM 12, a system bus control unit for controlling an address bus and a data bus in the printer control unit 10, and a control unit for each of the control units in the printer control unit 10. DMA (direct memory access) control for performing high-speed read / write control of data to the RAM 12 and each control unit without requesting the CPU via a request from each control unit in the printer control unit 10 by an interrupt control unit for controlling an interrupt request. Department,
Timer control unit, external interface bus BUS that can be used for time control by each control unit in printer control unit 10
An external interface control unit that performs data communication with the host device 100 via the interface bus 2, an interface control unit that exchanges data with a CCT 30 (card control unit) described later via the interface bus BUS3, and controls a power control signal CPW. And a print control unit for controlling a printing operation for the PU 20 (printer unit).

The PU 20 (printer unit) is a printing mechanism including a print head, a print head scanning mechanism, a printing paper transport mechanism, and the like.
For example, by adopting an ink jet printer, high-quality color image printing can be performed, thereby enabling photo printing and the like.

Of course, applications other than the ink jet type printer can be applied, and for example, a sublimation type thermal transfer printer, a color laser printer and the like can be adopted. The BUS2 may be an external interface bus capable of bidirectional communication for connection with the host device 100. For example, in the present embodiment, the BUS2 is a USB-compatible high-speed serial bus (up to 12M
bits / sec).

As described above, this USB-compliant high-speed serial bus connects a plurality of devices via a hub device or the like.
It can be built in a star connection on one external interface bus, and connects optional devices 300 to improve the input operation of characters such as KB 3 as shown in the figure.
10 (keyboard input device), it is possible to simultaneously connect devices such as a mouse / touchpad and other PDV 320 (pointing device) to easily indicate the input position / GUI operation selection. It goes without saying that there is no problem in communication with the host device.

As shown in FIG. 2, the CCT 30 (card control unit) is a CCNT comprising a CPU (central processor unit) for controlling the entire CCT 30 (card control unit) and various control logic units. 31 (card control circuit), a storage device capable of reading and writing a desired program / data upon request from a CPU or the like.
AM32, ROM 33 for reading out a control program / data for performing various interface control related to the CCT 30 (card control unit) and CDV 200 (card device) (electrically erasable / rewritable R)
OM may be used).

The CCNT 31 (card control circuit) has a ROM
A CP for controlling the operation of the entire CCT 30 (card control unit) according to a control program stored in the RAM 32
U, a system bus control unit for controlling the address bus and data bus in the CCT 30 (card control unit); an interrupt control unit for controlling an interrupt request from each control unit in the CCT 30 (card control unit); DMA (direct memory access) control unit that performs high-speed read / write control of data to the RAM 32 and each control unit without requesting each CPU from each control unit within the card control unit), CCT 30 (card control unit) A timer control unit that can be used for time control by each control unit in P, via the interface bus BUS3
Consists of an external interface control unit that performs data communication with the CT 11 (printer control circuit), and a device interface control unit that detects the attachment / detachment of the CDV 200 (card device) and transfers and controls data with the CDV 200 (card device). Have been.

BUS3 may be any interface bus capable of bidirectional communication for connection with PCT 11 (printer control circuit). For example, in this embodiment,
IEEE1284 compliant parallel interface
ECP mode (up to 500Kbyte /
S). Although the data transfer rate is lower than BUS1 and BUS2 described above, the data transfer rate is sufficient for the current amount of data handled by the current CDV 200 (card device), and the control logic and control programs that constitute the interface control unit USB / IEEE1394 with the scale described above
At present, the use of IEEE1284 makes it possible to construct a low-cost device. Of course, if a data transfer speed is required, for example, the USB / IEEE1394
It is possible to apply a high-speed interface bus such as.

The PWR 50 (power supply) turns on various voltage outputs according to a power control signal CPW from the PCT 11 (printer control circuit).
Control / OFF. For example, PCT 11 (printer control circuit)
Can turn on / off the power output supplied to the CCT 30 (card control unit) according to instructions from the CPW as needed.

The CDV 200 (card device) is a card device which is physically removable from the printer device 1 and controls attachment / detachment detection and data transfer through a CCT 30 (card control unit) built in the printer device 1. A device that can. This card device can add storage means CMM (card device memory) composed of nonvolatile memory, etc., in addition to, for example, communication means for connecting the card device to external equipment, other control functions, etc. It is a compact, lightweight, portable device with excellent expansion.

The card device can also be attached to and detached from digital devices such as digital cameras, digital video cameras, digital audio, personal computers, etc., for example, to collect images, sounds, information, etc. collected by those devices. Various data can be stored and saved.

As described above, the image processing system of the present invention comprises the above-described card device, CCT 30 (card control unit), PCT 11 (printer control circuit), and host Data can be arbitrarily exchanged with the device 1.

(Embodiment 2) Next, a case where the CDV 200 (card device) described in the above embodiment has a communication function as an extended function will be described with reference to FIG.

The host device 100 according to the present embodiment
The configuration of the printer device 1 is the same as that described with reference to FIG.

Reference numeral 200 denotes a case where a storage means CMM (card device memory) constituted by a nonvolatile memory or the like and a communication function as an example of an extended function are added. For example, wireless communication is performed with an external communication device group 400. WCT 210 (card device communication control unit). Note that the wireless communication technology includes infrared communication (IrDA or the like), radio wave communication, and the like. In the present embodiment, a communication system using weak radio waves (compliant with BlueTooth) is applied as the wireless communication system.

The external communication device group 400 is a device optionally prepared by the user.
WKB410 (wireless keyboard input device) in place of (keyboard input device), WPDV420 (wireless pointing device) in place of PDV 320 (pointing device) and CP 130 (operation panel) in place of the above By providing a WCP 440 (wireless operation panel), the number of connection cables of the entire device is reduced as much as possible.

In this way, when using the image processing system in the living room at home, the number of connection cables is reduced, thereby deteriorating the aesthetic appearance of using the apparatus and the communication between the apparatus and the user. It is also possible to cope with problems such as allowing a sufficient operating distance and catching a foot on a connection cord in terms of safety.

CPH 430 (cellular phone) is a mobile communication device such as a so-called mobile phone or PHS. As is well known, at least in the Japanese market, these devices have been rapidly spreading in recent years. Behind the spread of ancillary service functions such as communication,
Many have character input / output means.

Therefore, these devices are provided with a wireless function (do not use a public line) so that data can be exchanged with the card device 200. The received e-mail or telephone directory data stored in the device can be sent through CDV 200 (card device).
The DISP 1 connected to the host device is transmitted and received between the printer device 1 and the host device 100.
40 E-mail is viewed on a large screen on the (image input / output device), edited and created, and the information is saved in the original CPH 430 (cellular phone), or the printer 1 Or can be printed.

Further, CPH 430 (cellular phone)
Other devices such as the connected printer device 1 and the host device 100 can use the 10-key input operation and the character input operation with the 10 keys and the like attached to the CPH 430 (cellular phone) as input means. Other devices such as the printer device 1 and the host device 100 to which the accompanying display is connected can be used as output means. In addition to the above-mentioned devices, if other devices are provided with a wireless communication function, for example, data exchange with a digital home appliance or a personal computer can be performed by the CDV 200.
Needless to say, this is possible via (card device). In the present embodiment, the wireless communication function is taken as an example. However, it is also possible to add an extended function such as a wired communication and a digital image pickup device to the CDV 200 (card device).

(Embodiment 3) Next, with reference to FIG. 4, a configuration in which a CCNT 31 (card control circuit) is incorporated in the PCT 11 (printer control circuit) described in the first and second embodiments will be described.

Note that the host device 100 in this embodiment is
The configuration of the CDV 200 (card device) is the same as that described with reference to FIGS.

The CCT 30 (card control unit) shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 and the printer control unit 10 are connected to each other by a connector or the like so that both circuit boards can be physically separated from each other. is there. Therefore, the interface bus
BUS3 is provided, and power is independently supplied from the PWR 50 (power supply), and both are connected by a connector.

This configuration is suitable, for example, when the user purchases and connects the above-mentioned CCT 30 (card control unit) as an option after purchasing the device. However, if the CCT 30 (card control unit) is installed from the beginning as a standard function of the apparatus at the time of shipment, the cost required for a connector and a power supply circuit for supplying another power will increase. In addition, in order for the user to attach the CCT 30 (card control unit), it is necessary to make a part of the housing of the printer device 1 a detachable mechanism, and the cost increases even in this case.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, in order to solve the cost problem described above, the control part obtained by removing the CPU and the interface control unit of the interface bus BUS3 from the CCNT 31 (card control circuit) shown in FIG. (Circuit) was incorporated in PCT 11 (printer control circuit).

In the PCT 11 (printer control circuit) of the present embodiment, the interface control unit for the interface bus BUS3 is deleted, and the RAM 12 and the ROM 13 can be accessed from the CCNT 40 (card control circuit). ,Also
It is a semiconductor which is physically constituted by one chip and provided with a bus control circuit unit which enables the CPU to control the CCNT 40 (card control circuit).

The contents of the control program / data and the like required for control by the CCNT 31 (card control circuit) in the RAM 32 and the ROM 33 in the CCT 30 (card control unit) described with reference to FIG. RAM12 and ROM13.

Further, in the above-mentioned PWR 50 (power supply), the CCT 30
Although a separate power supply line was provided for the (card control unit), the PWR 55 (power supply)
Can reduce the number of power supply lines. With the above configuration, the number of components to be arranged on the control board, the arrangement area, and the like can be reduced, so that a more inexpensive device can be provided.

(Embodiment 4) Next, with reference to FIG. 5, a description will be given of a configuration in which most of the control units of the printer control unit 10 described in Embodiment 3 are incorporated in a PCT 11 (printer control circuit).

The host device 100 according to the present embodiment
The configuration of the CDV 200 (card device) is the same as that described with reference to FIGS.

In recent years, semiconductor technology has rapidly evolved. For example, wiring and gate arrangement in a semiconductor can be performed according to the 0.25 μ rule, 0.18 μ rule, etc., and a semiconductor circuit configuration with a higher degree of integration than before can be realized. It is becoming. In addition, a relatively large capacity RO required to construct the control circuit
It has become possible to mount it on a single semiconductor chip, including storage devices such as M and RAM.

These semiconductor technologies can also be applied to the device of the present invention, and FIG. 5 shows the RAM 12 described in the third embodiment.
, The ROM 13, the CCNT 40 (card control circuit), and the interface control unit for the interface bus BUS3 described in the first and second embodiments are deleted, and the CCNT 40 (card control circuit) also accesses the RAM 12 and the ROM 13. And a PCT 50 (printer control circuit) provided with a bus control circuit section that enables the CPU to control the CCNT 40 (card control circuit).

Further, in the above-mentioned PWR 50 (power supply), the CCT 30
Although a separate power supply line was provided for the (card control unit), the power supply line of the PWR 55 (power supply) of the present embodiment was reduced because the power supply line was reduced by the same configuration as in the fourth embodiment. Is possible.

With the above-described configuration, the number of components to be arranged on the control board, the layout area, and the like can be further reduced as compared with the above-described fourth embodiment, so that a more inexpensive device can be provided.

If it is not suitable to integrate the ROM 13 into a single chip including the ROM 13 due to the program capacity of the ROM 13 or due to manufacturing reasons, the ROM 13 is excluded and R outside the chip is excluded.
Provide bus signal lines for accessing the OM, and attach externally
What is necessary is just to have ROM13.

(Embodiment 5) Next, referring to FIG. 6, an external interface bus BUS2 of the host device 100 for performing communication between the printer device 1 and the host device 100 described in the first to fourth embodiments will be described. A configuration in which the external interface bus is removed and only one BUS1 is described will be described.

The BUS in FIG. 6 has the same function as the BUS1 and may be a so-called external interface bus capable of bidirectional communication for connection to the above-described EDV 170 (external connection device). In the IEEE
E1394 compliant high-speed serial bus (up to 400 Mbi
t / s), and to improve the input operation of digital home appliances such as digital cameras and digital video cameras, printers, and the above-mentioned characters and the like, KB 3
10 (keyboard input device) and optional device group 300 such as PDV 320 (pointing device) such as mouse / touch pad to easily indicate the input position / GUI operation selection, etc. It is possible to connect simultaneously via a hub device or the like.

Note that, in the present embodiment, the host device 10
The internal configuration of the SCT 111 (system control unit) of the first to fourth embodiments described above is slightly changed.

The changes are as follows. (1) The external interface control unit 2 for controlling the external interface bus BUS2 for exchanging data, such as the printer device 1 and the optional device group 300, is deleted.
The external interface bus BUS1 described above is connected to the BU of FIG.
(3) that the external interface control unit 1 is changed so as to be used as an S, to read and write data with the EDV 170 (external connection device), and to exchange data such as a printer device and an optional device group 300; An external interface control unit for performing data communication with the host device 100 via the external interface bus BUS2 described in PCT 11 (printer control circuit) of the printer device 1 is connected to the host device 100 via the external interface bus BUS. And (4) replacing the optional device group 300 and the like with those conforming to the BUS interface specification.

With the above configuration, the present invention can be applied to the image processing system. According to the configuration of the present embodiment, the external interface control unit 2 can be eliminated from the host device, and the connection to BUS2 can be achieved. In addition, the number of interface connectors and the like required to perform the operation can be reduced, so that the cost of the entire apparatus can be reduced.

For a user who wants a function that does not need to connect a plurality of devices at the same time, the connector of the external interface adopted in this embodiment is easy to connect and disconnect, so that only necessary devices can be externally connected when necessary. If used to connect to the interface BUS, even the above-mentioned hub device is unnecessary.

(Embodiment 6) Next, the above-described Embodiments 1 to
5 for generating a time stamp, a clock / calendar function, a print start time, and the like when storing information such as a file in a memory provided in the system main control unit 110 of the host device 100 described in RTC
A configuration in which 112 (real-time clock) is reduced will be described.

The RTC 112 (real-time clock) has a secondary power supply such as a battery, and is configured to correctly measure time even when power is not supplied to the host device. However, as long as there is a battery, the battery will eventually run out and it will be necessary to replace the battery. In addition, in countries such as European countries, regulations for environmental measures such as that users must be able to remove a built-in battery when disposing of equipment are expected.

As a countermeasure against this, the user sets the RTC 112
It is necessary to take measures such as providing a mechanism for removing a (real-time clock) battery. Also, by allowing the user to remove the battery, it is expected that the battery is unintentionally removed due to an erroneous operation or the like. If the battery is removed, there is a problem that the time information in the RTC 112 (real-time clock) is lost. .

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the time information and time from public radio waves or time information from a predetermined server having a standard time connected to the Internet / network is acquired when the host device 100 needs it. By doing so, the RTC 112 (real-time clock) and the batteries attached to it are reduced.

The host device 100 obtains the time by a means at a time necessary when the system is started, for example, when the power is turned on, and manages the time using an internal timer control unit, and stores the time information in the system. The method used as a whole, and also obtains the correct standard time by means at necessary timing as needed, for example, to generate a time stamp when storing information such as files in memory, and at the start of printing The time is obtained and given to the printer device 1,
At this time, the printer device 1 can also compare the time with the time when the maintenance of the head or the like was performed before, and can utilize the time to eliminate the clogging of the print head if necessary.

In order to make such a configuration, it is premised that the device is connected to the Internet or the like, or a device capable of receiving public radio waves is connected. Since TVs and video recording / reproducing devices provided with such devices often include a clock or the like, it is also possible to acquire time information from these devices.

As described above, with the configuration as in the present embodiment, the RTC 112 (real-time clock) and the accompanying battery can be used without reducing or reducing the time management function on the system. Since the components can be deleted, the components of the host device 1 and the component mounting area can be reduced, so that the cost can be reduced. Also,
It is also possible to provide an environment-friendly device that can deal with the above-mentioned environmental problems.

(Embodiment 7) Next, a communication path between the units described in the above embodiment will be described.

First, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the host device 100⇔the printer device 1⇔CCT30 (card control unit)
情報 Transfer information via the CDV 200 (card device) route. That is, (1) the host device 100 communicates with the printer device 1 through the external interface bus BUS2,
(2) The printer 1 is an external interface bus BU
Communication between PCT 11 (printer control circuit) and CCT 30 (card control unit) through S3, (3) CCT 30 (card control unit)
Exchanges desired data by performing attachment / detachment detection, data transfer control, and communication between the device interface control unit provided in the CCT 30 (card control unit) and the CDV 200 (card device) through the device interface. Is possible.

Next, in the configuration of FIGS. 4 and 5,
Host device 100 ⇔ Printer device 1 ⇔ CCNT 40 (card control circuit) in PCT 11 (printer control circuit) ⇔ CDV 200
Information is exchanged via the (card device) route. That is, (4) the host device 100 has an external interface
(5) The printer 1 communicates with the CCNT 40 (card control circuit) through the internal bus of the PCT 11 (printer control circuit), (6) CCNT
The 40 (card control circuit) can exchange desired data by performing attachment / detachment detection, data transfer control, and communication with the CDV 200 (card device) through the internal device interface control unit.

In the configuration of FIG. 6, the above items (1) and (4) are replaced with the following items (7) "(7) The host device 100 communicates with the printer device 1 through the external interface bus BUS. And the other items (2), (3), (5) and (6) are the same.

FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the above-mentioned communication path, and the arrows in the figure represent the exchange of data. First, “Host” from the left side in the figure means the host device 100. The “communication control unit” at the end of the right arrow is the printer 1
The transmission / reception data distribution control is performed within the printer device, and the bottom of the arrow indicates that when printing-related commands / data are received, the received data is processed inside the printer device 1 and printout is performed.

[Card Control]
"oller" means the CCT 30 (card control unit) or CCNT 40 (card control circuit). The point of the down arrow "Card De
“vice” means the CDV 200 (card device).

[0104] The "external connection device" at the end of the downward arrow indicates the external communication device group 400 optionally prepared by the user as described with reference to FIG. 3, for example, WKB 410 (wireless keyboard input device). , WPDV 420
(Wireless pointing device), WCP 440 (wireless operation panel), CPH 430 (cellular phone), and other devices can transmit and receive information through CDV 200 (card device).

(Embodiment 8) Next, communication information on the communication path described in the above embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 illustrates the format of the communication information.

In this embodiment, communication uses a packet format, and the communication information is roughly classified into the following four types. That is, (1) a PCMD packet for communication such as a request for a printing function to the printer device 1, and (2) communication status information such as various status information associated with the printing function of the printer device 1 or a response value associated with the printing function. PSTR packet,
(3) CCMD packet for communication such as requests for various functions related to CDV 200 (card device), (4) CDV 20
A PCSTR packet for communication of transmission information such as various status information related to 0 (card device) or a response value is prepared.

Next, information in the packet will be described. First, PCMD is an extension code "Esc" 1B indicating a print function request.
(Hex), followed by a variable-length character string “Cmd”, which is a command that expresses the details of the request in a character string that has been promised in advance.
Finally, the variable-length data “Data” is data accompanying the command and is omitted depending on the type of command, but if there is data, the 2-byte length “length information” (non- The data accompanying the command is listed at the head of (illustration). Note that the “length information” of the present embodiment expresses the number of bytes with 16 bits, and specifies the lower 8 bits in the first byte and the upper 8 bits in the subsequent byte. The “length information” value represents the amount of information following “length information” in “Data” by the number of bytes.

(Example of PCMD packet) Hex notation is 1B 5B 4B 02
00 41 42, “Cmd” is 5B 4B, “Data” is 02 00 41 4
2. "Length information" indicates 2 bytes.

Next, the PSTR starts with “Len”, which is 2 bytes long and indicates the number of bytes of “Str”, and the variable length information “Str” is associated with various status information associated with the printing function of the printer device or with the printing function. Indicates transmission information such as response value, and the first information is "F
s "is a character other than 1C (Hex).

Note that “Len” in this embodiment expresses the number of bytes with 16 bits, and the first byte has the lower 8 bits,
Specify the upper 8 bits in the following 1 byte. Further, when returning a PSTR packet to the card device control unit, control is performed so that 1C (Hex) is not given to the value of the first byte of “Len” in any case. If the first byte of “Len” becomes 1C (Hex) due to the data length of “Str”, add 1 to “Len” and add dummy NULL data to the end of “Str”. I am trying to add it. The reason is that the beginning of the CCMD packet described later is the extension code "Fs" 1
Because C (Hex). This facilitates the reception data analysis processing of the card device control unit.

(Example of PSTR packet) Hex notation 03 00 30 3
1 32 is “Len” 03 00, “Str” is 30 31 32, “Le
"n" indicates 3 bytes.

Next, CCMD is CDV 200 (card device).
Code "Fs" that represents the requirements for various functions related to
1C (Hex) at the head, followed by a 1-byte length "N" representing the request source. For example, if "H", the host device can be identified, and if "P", the printer device can be identified as the request source. is there. The following variable-length character string “Cmd” is a command that expresses the details of the request in a character string that has been promised in advance.
`` a '' is data accompanying the command and is omitted depending on the type of command, but if there is data, 2-byte length information indicating the amount of information in `` Data '' (not shown)
The data accompanying the command is enumerated at the beginning.

Note that the “length information” of the present embodiment expresses the number of bytes by 16 bits, and the lower byte is expressed in the first byte.
Specify the upper 8 bits in a bit and the following byte. Also,
The “length information” value indicates the amount of information following “length information” in “Data” in bytes.

(Example of CCMD packet) Hex notation 1C 48 41 3
For 1 01 00 35, "N" is 48 (host device is the request source), "C
"md" indicates 41 31, "Data" indicates 01 00 35, and "length information" indicates 1 byte.

The CSTR has a 2-byte length of "Fs" and "N".
"Len", which represents the total number of bytes of "Str", followed by CD
Extended code "Fs" 1C indicating various status information related to V200 (card device) or transmission information such as response value
(Hex) Next, “N” having a 1-byte length indicating a transmission destination can be identified as, for example, a host device if “H” and a printer device if “P”. Variable length information "Str"
Represents various status information related to the CDV 200 (card device) or transmission information such as a response value.

Note that “Len” in the present embodiment expresses the number of bytes with 16 bits, and the first byte has the lower 8 bits,
Specify the upper 8 bits in the following 1 byte. Furthermore, "Len"
Is controlled not to give 1B (Hex) in any case to the value of the first byte of. If the first byte of “Len” becomes 1B (Hex) due to the data length of “Str”, add 1 to “Len” and add dummy NULL data to the end of “Str”. I am trying to add it. The reason for this is that the configuration of the PCMD and PSTR packets is a standardly used specification, and adding the CCMD and CSTR packet types causes a change in the specification to impair compatibility with the related art.

(Example of CSTR packet) Hex notation 05 00 1C 5
0 41 42 43 indicates “Len” is 0500, “N” is 50 (the destination of the printer device), “Str” is 41 42 43, and “Len” is 5 bytes.

Next, with reference to FIG. 9, communication control using the packet will be described. Note that the vertical lines in the figure represent communication bases, and “Host” is a host device 100 from the left.
, “Printer” is printer device 1, “Card” is CCT 3
CDV 200 (card device) such as 0 (card controller)
Is shown.

First, (1) the host device requests the printer device to return the status related to the printing function by the PCDM packet type PCDM1.

(2) The printer apparatus receiving the request interprets the request as a print-related request because the head of the requested packet is "Esc", collects the internal state of the printer, and generates state information. Then, the printer device returns status information to the host device using PSTR1 of the PSTR packet type.

(3) Next, the host device requests the CCMD1 of the CCMD packet type to return the status associated with the card device.

(4) The printer apparatus receiving the request interprets the request as being related to the card device since the head of the requested packet is "Fs", and the CCT 30 (card control unit) by the above interface means. The received CCMD1 is transferred to a card device control unit such as the like.

(5) Since the head of the requested packet is "Fs", the card device control unit analyzes the packet and responds to a request from the host device to determine the mounting state of the CDV 200 (card device) and the card device. , The internal state of the card control unit, and the like to generate state information. Then, the card device controller controls the CSTR packet type.
In order to return status information to the requesting host device by CSTR1, the "N" identifier of CCMD1 received earlier is copied to the "N" identifier of CSTR1 to be returned, and a CSTR1 packet is sent to the printer device.

(6) Since the "N" identifier of CSTR1 sent from the card device control unit is "H", the printer device transfers the CSTR1 packet to the host device. As described above, the host device can acquire the status information from the card device control unit via the printer device.

(7) Next, the card device control unit sets the PCMD
A packet type PCMD2 requests the printer to return the status related to the printing function.

(8) The printer apparatus receiving the request interprets the request as a print-related request because the head of the requested packet is "Esc", and collects the internal state of the printer to generate state information. Then, since the printer device has received a request for PCMD2 from the card device control unit, the printer device returns status information to the card device control unit using PSTR2 of the PSTR packet type.

By controlling the communication as described above, the host device can smoothly exchange data with the card device through the printer device.

(Embodiment 9) The communication control of the above embodiment has been described for the case where there are three types of communication bases. As described above with reference to FIG. 9, in the control method described above, when the requesting communication base requires a response from the request destination, the request source must wait until a response is returned from the request destination. If only the use in the form of sequential communication control as shown in FIG. 9 is sufficient, the external interface bus BU having the configuration described in FIGS.
If there is no problem such as the communication control speed between the devices even in the control mode in which the communication in S2 and the communication in the internal bus to the interface BUS3 or the card control circuit CCNT are exclusively used, The configuration of the eighth embodiment is sufficient, and by doing so, the control circuit configuration inside the printer can be simplified.

Even when it is necessary to increase the communication control speed, if there are only about three types of communication bases, there is no need to perform exclusive control, so that the order management for sufficient mutual communication between devices can be performed. It is possible to increase the communication control speed by controlling the packet type determination and the like.

However, the external communication device group 400 optionally prepared by the user described with reference to FIG.
For example, WKB 410 (wireless keyboard input device), WPDV 420 (wireless pointing device), WCP 440 (wireless operation panel), CPH 430 (cellular phone), etc., and CDV 200 (card device) ), The use of these devices in an integrated manner in this system configuration increases the number of connected devices, making it difficult to manage the order of communication between devices and determine packet types. Then, the communication control speed arises as a technical problem. Therefore, in the present embodiment, a control method for facilitating communication control between devices even when many devices are connected will be described below.

FIG. 10 illustrates a packet for communicating with a connected device in the present embodiment.
This packet is composed of seven fields, and the functional purpose of each field is described below. In addition, "Le
The fields from "n" to "Did2" have a fixed length and are required for any request / response message.

(1) The “Len” field is followed by “Rn”
「Data / Str”, and in the present embodiment, the data length is represented by an absolute value of 16 bits in bytes.

(2) In the “Rn” field, a request number can be designated by an identifier used by the request source as needed. In the present embodiment, the request number is represented by an 8-bit length. When the value is 0, it indicates that the request number is not used, and when the value is 1 to 255, it can be used as the request number. By using this request number, it is possible to manage the order of responses to requests, for example.

(3) The “Msg” field is an identifier for classifying the function of the request message into large categories and has the meaning as shown in Table 1 below. In the present embodiment, the identifier is represented by an 8-bit absolute value.

[0135]

【table 1】

In Table 1, "MsgPacketSize" is a request for requesting the requestor to confirm whether the requester can receive the message packet size before sending the next larger packet.

"MsgDevConfig" is a Config in Table 4 described later.
This is a request to return information (device configuration information).

“MsgDevStatus” is the Status in Table 5 below.
This is a request to return information (device status information), and further necessary detailed status items can be specified in the Data field by a list-format character string using parameters determined by a predetermined reserved word or the like.

[0139] "MsgUI" requests functions related to UI (user interface (operation)) resources in conjunction with a UI control command shown in Table 6 described below along with the Data field.

“MsgFile” requests a function related to file operation with a File control command of Table 8 described below in association with a Data field.

"MsgPrint" requests all printing functions.

“MsgPrintText” requests a function related to simple printing that can be printed only by a printer device without going through a host device.

"MsgCommand" requests a function related to an extended command other than the above.

(4) The “Ack” field is information for notifying the presence or absence of a response to the request message or determining whether or not the response message is acceptable, as shown in Table 2 below. In the present embodiment, the information is an 8-bit absolute value. Expressed by value.

[0145]

[Table 2]

[0146] In Table 2, "AckNoReply" indicates that no response to the request message is required.

"AckWaitReply" indicates that a response to the request message is necessary.

“AckReplyOk” indicates that the message is a response message reply to the message instructed to require the response request.

"AckReplyNg" expresses a state such as when it is impossible to return a response message to a message instructed to require a response request, or when an error occurs in the request message. Also, AckNoReply and AckWai
tReply is the request message, AckReplyOk and AckReplyNg
Indicates a response message.

(5) The “Did1” field expresses the device type of the request source.
Expressed as the absolute value of the bit length. See Table 3 below for device types.

(6) The “Did2” field represents the type of the device of the request destination. In the present embodiment, the type of the device is represented by an 8-bit absolute value. See Table 3 below for device types. The response message is returned from the device of Did2 to the device of Did1, but Did1 and Did2 are not exchanged at this time.

[0152]

[Table 3]

The devices listed in Table 3 can communicate with each other, and a number for identifying a device type is assigned to each device.

It should be noted here that the above-mentioned devices do not necessarily have to be individually provided with the above-described control means. For example, the host device described with reference to FIGS. A device that is directly connected to only 100 and cannot communicate directly with other devices,
For example, DevCp (operation panel CP 13
0), DevDisp (image input / output device DISP 140), DevAud (audio input / output device AUD 140), DevEmm (external memory EMM 180)
It is not necessary to provide the present communication control circuit or control means in each of the devices, and the same communication control can be seen from the time of an externally connected device device by a method such as emulation for devices enumerated by a control program of the host device 100 or the like. It is sufficient that the host device 100 performs control.

By doing so, the cost of the entire apparatus can be reduced. Similarly, if the printer device 1 is DevCct (card control unit CCT 30), DevCdv (card device CDV 20
0), communication control of devices such as DevCmm (card device / memory) can also be performed. Of course, the card control unit CCT 30
The above-mentioned communication control means is prepared in place of communication control for devices such as DevCdv (card device CDV 200), DevCmm (card device / memory), and card device.
DevWkb (wireless keyboard WKB 41 connected to CDV 200
0), DevWcp (wireless pointing device WPDV 420), DevWcp
For an external device such as cp (wireless operation panel WCP 440), the printer device 1, DevCct (card control unit CCT 3
0) or communication control can be performed by DevCdv (card device CDV 200).

(7) The “Data / Str” field contains detailed function instructions associated with the function indicated by the Msg field,
Variable length data for sending and receiving supplementary information such as status information.In a request message, as a Data field that specifies parameters such as detailed commands of the request function, and in a response message, as a Str field that returns parameters such as the return value to the request. Function.

For example, if the Msg field is an MsgPacket
In the case of a Size request, a packet size value is indicated.

[0158] A response message to the MsgDevConfig request returns the Config information in Table 4 below.

The response message to the MsgDevStatus request returns the status information shown in Table 5 below. In the case of an MsgUI request, a UI control command shown in Table 6 below and, if necessary, UI information shown in Table 7 below are instructed.

[0160] The response message to the MsgUI request returns the UI information in Table 7 below.

In the case of an MsgFile request, a File control command shown in Table 8 below and a file name, write data, and the like are specified as required.

A response message to the MsgFile request returns a File control command shown in Table 8 below and, if necessary, a file name and read data.

At the time of the MsgPrint request, the print control information is specified.

In the case of an MsgPrintText request, simple print control information is specified.

(10) In the case of an MsgCommand request, it indicates extended function control information.

[0166]

[Table 4]

The information shown in Table 4 is provided in ROM / RAM serving as storage means for each device, and is a group of information for transmitting the device configuration to other devices. Is 8-bit numerical information corresponding to.

The “device name” is character string information terminated by NULL 00 (Hex) representing a device type as a character string, and can be specified up to 255 characters.

"Device type information" is a 16-bit identification code for distinguishing the device type.
It is used to sort digital home appliances.

"Device basic function information" is 16-bit flag information for distinguishing basic functions that can be provided by a device. One basic function is assigned to each bit position, and the basic function is determined by its bit value (1/0). Indicates the presence or absence of a basic function such as a print function, a file function, and a wireless function.

The "device function specification information" is 16-bit flag information indicating a function specification associated with a basic function having a bit value of "1" in the "device basic function information." is there. For example, when a printing function is provided, it can be used to identify whether color printing is possible or not, and whether or not an ink remaining amount detection function is provided.

"Device control version information" is a 16-bit identification code indicating the version of the control program in the device.

The "device control ROM information" is a 32-bit identification code representing information such as the rewriteability of the control program in the device, the storage medium format, the storage medium capacity, and the number of rewrites.

The "device communication control information" is a 32-bit identification code indicating the type of external interface of the device, interface specification version information for each type, and interface capabilities such as the maximum transfer speed.

[0175]

[Table 5]

The contents shown in Table 5 are provided in a RAM as storage means for each device, and are a group of information for transmitting the device status to another device. The "basic status information" is a 16-bit flag for identifying the basic device status. In the information, a status item is allocated for each bit, and the basic status is represented by a bit value (1/0). It can be used for basic state identification such as the presence or absence of error history information.

The “detailed status information” is a NU that represents the requested detailed device status as a character string in a list format.
If the character string information terminated with LL 00 (Hex) is a maximum of 255 characters, and the amount of information exceeds 255 characters, it is divided into a plurality of response packets and returned.

[0178] "Error history information" is character string information terminated by NULL 00 (Hex) that expresses the error history information in the form of a list of character strings when error history information exists.
If the amount of information exceeds 55 characters and the amount of information exceeds 255 characters, the response packet is divided into a plurality of response packets and returned.

[0179]

[Table 6]

Table 6 shows a UI control command for instructing the detailed function of the UI control request when the content of the Msg field is MsgUI, which is set at the head of the Data field. The “UiConfig” command is a user interface (UI) input operation.・
Requests the return of the configuration information of the display output resource. At that time UiCo
Following the nfig command, the resource item to be acquired (input operation /
Display output) is specified in the Data field as a character string in the form of a list with parameters determined by predetermined reserved words, etc.
Following the UiConfig command, the response message returns a character string in a list format based on parameters defined by predetermined reserved words in the UI information items in Table 7 below in the Str field.

The “UiSelect” command requests the use (reservation) of user interface resources. At that time UiSe
Following the lect command, specify the input operation / display output resource use request item that you want to use in the Data field with a list format character string using parameters defined by predetermined reserved words etc. acquired with the UiConfig command, and When an input operation reserved for use is detected, it is possible to specify an event notification for automatically notifying the user of the input operation. When the input operation is detected, a response message of the UiRead command is returned.

The "UiRead" command requests the return of the input operation resource state specified by the UiSelect command in advance. At that time, following the UiRead command, the target input operation resource detection request item can be specified in the Data field by a list-type character string with a parameter defined by a predetermined reserved word acquired by the UiConfig command.
This response message is also returned when an input operation designated for event notification is detected by the ct command.

“UiWrite” requests a desired display from the display output operation resource specified in advance by the UiSelect command. At that time, output items to display output resources to be used following the UiWrite command, such as lighting / off / flashing / flashing cycle if the target is an LED display, and ringing frequency / ringing start / stop / ringing time if buzzer・ Use the UiConfig command to obtain the number of times and rhythm, etc., and use the UiConfig command to obtain information such as audio output items / audio data for voice output and display items / display character strings / code pages / colors / sizes for character displays. It is specified in the Data field by a character string in the form of a list with parameters determined by a predetermined reserved word or the like.

[0184]

[Table 7]

Table 7 shows that the contents of the above Msg field are MsgUI and the configuration information of the input operation / display output resources requested by the UiConfig command.
The "UI input resource information" is provided in the AM, and is information on input operation resources held by the device, for example, input operation function types such as operation buttons, keyboards, 10 keys, cursor keys, and joysticks, button input operations, and key inputs. Various types of detectable operation event information such as operation, cursor key pressing, button release, button input, key input, etc., and the availability / unavailability, occupation availability / sharing, sharing availability / unavailability of each input resource, etc. Are expressed as character strings in a list format using parameters defined by predetermined reserved words and the like.

[0186] "UI output resource information" is configuration information of output resources such as display and audio related to the operation held by the device. For example, a lighting / off / flashing / flashing / flashing cycle that can be instructed by an LED display, a buzzer, etc. If so, it is possible to indicate the instructable ringing frequency / ringing start / stop / ringing time, number of times, rhythm, etc .; Information such as display items / display character strings, code pages, colors, sizes, etc., and available conditions, such as the availability / impossibility / occupation availability / sharing availability / unavailability of each output resource, are specified. It is represented by a character string in the form of a list using parameters defined by reserved words.

[0187]

[Table 8]

Table 8 shows that the content of the Msg field is MsgFile
At the beginning of the Data field with a File control command that directs the detailed function of the File operation request at the time of
The "fo" command is a file information return request related to the File operation. Following the FileInfo command, the request information item is specified in the Data field as a list format character string with parameters specified by predetermined reserved words, etc., and a response message Following the FileInfo command, file information such as file directory information and file attribute information such as designated file information, for example, file name, data type, file size, modification information (read-only / erasable / copyable / copyable / non-copyable, Information such as user visibility, password protection, etc.), and free space, etc., are selectively stored in the Str field in a list-type character string with parameters specified by predetermined reserved words, etc., according to the request item. return.

The "FileOpen" command is a request to open a file prior to a read / write operation of a desired file. Following the FileOpen command, a file name or password information to be opened is a parameter defined by a predetermined reserved word or the like. In a list format string
Specify in the Data field, and the response message is FileOp
The file handle number used for the operation of the opened file following the en command is a 16-bit value (for example, 0 or more means success of the file open operation, 0 means failure), and then the file operation position (file Pointer) is a 32-bit value, followed by target file attribute information such as file name, data type, file size,
A list of modifier information (read-only / erasable / non-erasable, copy-possible / unavailable, user visibility, password protection, etc.), and information such as free space, etc., with parameters defined by predetermined reserved words, etc. Return to the Str field as a format string.

The "FileClose" command is a request to close a file when the read / write operation of the desired file contents is completed. Following the FileClose command, the file handle number to be closed is specified in the Data field as a 16-bit value. The response message is File
Following the Close command, the requested file handle number is a 16-bit value, followed by success / failure information of the file close operation and target file attribute information, for example, file name, data type, file size, decoration information (read-only / erasure Information, such as permission / inhibition, copy permission / inhibition, user visibility, password protection, etc.), and free space, etc., as a Str field with a list-type character string based on parameters specified by predetermined reserved words, etc. To return.

The "FileCreate" command is a request for creating a new file prior to a read / write operation of a desired new file. Following the FileCreate command, a file name, data type, modification information, password information, and the like to be created are specified. Specify in the Data field as a list-type character string with parameters determined by reserved words, etc.
The response message is a 16-bit file handle number used for file operation following the FileCreate command (for example, 0 or more means success of file creation operation, 0 means failure), and then the target file Attribute information such as file name, data type, file size, modification information (read-only / erasable / non-copyable / copyable / non-visible, user visibility, password protection, etc.) and free space information Is returned to the Str field as a character string in the form of a list with parameters determined by a predetermined reserved word or the like.

The "FileDelete" command is a request to delete a desired file. Following the FileDelete command, a file name or password information to be deleted is described as a character string in a list format by a parameter defined by a predetermined reserved word or the like. Field, and the response message is
Successful file deletion operation following FileDelete command /
Failure information and target file attribute information such as file name, data type, file size, modification information (read-only / erasable / copyable / copyable / unreadable, user visibility, password protection, etc.), Information such as free space and the like is returned to the Str field as a character string in a list format using parameters determined by a predetermined reserved word or the like.

The "FileSeek" command is a request for designating the read / write position (file pointer) of a desired file. The file handle number to be operated following the FileSeek command is a 16-bit value, and the target file operation position (file pointer) is specified. A 32-bit value is specified in the Data field, and the response message is a 16-bit value of the requested file handle number following the FileSeek command, a 32-bit value of the updated file operation position (file pointer), and Request operation success / failure information and target file attribute information, for example, file name, data type, file size, modification information (read-only / deletion enabled / disabled, copy enabled / disabled, user visibility, password protection Information, etc.), and free space, etc. Return to the Str field as a string in the form of a list with the specified parameters.

A "FileRead" command is a request to read from a desired file. A file handle number to be operated following a FileRead command is specified as a 16-bit value, and a target read size is specified as a 16-value in the Data field. Is the 16-bit value of the requested file handle number following the FileRead command, the 32-bit value of the updated file operation position (file pointer), the 16-bit value of the actual read size, and the file Return the read data to the Str field.

The "FileWrite" command is a request to write to a desired file. Following the FileWrite command, the file handle number to be operated is a 16-bit value, the target write size is a 16-value, and the data to be written to the file is written. Designated in the Data field, the response message is a 16-bit value of the requested file handle number following the FileWrite command, a 32-bit value of the updated file operation position (file pointer), and then the actual write completion size Is returned to the Str field as a 16-bit value.

The "FileFormat" command is a request for initializing (deleting all) the file system held by the device. Following the FileFormat command, a volume name, a password, etc. are listed in a list format using parameters defined by a predetermined reserved word or the like. Specify in the Data field with the string of
Following the FileFormat command, the response message contains information on the success / failure of the file format, the created volume name, and information such as free space in a list-format character string with parameters defined by a predetermined reserved word or the like.
Return to r field.

Next, referring to FIG. 11, FIG.
Communication control using the packet configuration of FIG.
Note that the vertical lines in the figure indicate communication bases, DevXXX indicates the device type described in Table 3, "DevSys" indicates the host device 100, "DevPrt" indicates the printer device 1, and "DeV
"vCcp" is a control unit of CDV 200 (card device) such as CCT 30 (card control unit), and "DevCph" is connected through WCT (card device communication control unit) that performs wireless communication provided on CDV 200 (card device). CPH 430 (cellular phone), which is one of the external devices to be used, is shown as an example. In the figure, MsgX (A) and MsgX (N) are request messages, and MsgX (R) represents a response message to MsgX (A). (X is 1 to 7) In the following description, [MsgVVV, AckWWW, DevXXX, DevYYY, Z
.. Z] means the packet content of the message,
The sg field is MsgVVV, the Ack field is AckWWW, Did1
Field is DevXXX, Did2 field is DevYYY, Data / S
The tr field indicates that it is a detailed command or response parameter having the meaning of Z... Z.

First, (1) When the CDV200 (card device) is attached to the card device insertion slot of the printer device, the DevCcp (card control unit) requests the DevSys (host device) to notify the DevSys (host device) of the request message Msg1 (card device). A) [MsgCo
mmand, AckWaitReply, DevCcp, DevSys, Card Device Attachment Notification] packet to the PCT 11 (printer control circuit) via the interface or internal bus.

The printer control unit sets the Ack field to AckWait.
Since Reply and the Did2 field are DevSys, this packet is transferred to the host device via the external interface. Then, the host device sets the Ack field to AckWait.
Since the Reply and the Did2 field are DevSys, the request is addressed to itself, so the packet contents are analyzed, and as a result, it is recognized that the card device is attached.

(2) The Ack field of the host device is AckWa
Since it is itReply, the response message Msg1 (R) [MsgCom
mand, AckReplyOk, DevCcp, DevSys, card device attachment notification] packet is sent to the printer via the external interface in order to return to the request source DevCcp (card control unit). For the printer device, the Ack field is AckReplyOk and D
Since the id1 field is DevCcp, this packet is transferred to DevCcp (card control unit) via the interface or the internal bus. Since the Ack field is AckReplyOk, the DevCcp (card control unit) determines that the host device has correctly recognized that the card device has been attached.

(3) Next, the host device requests a message Msg2 to acquire the type of the attached card device.
(A) [MsgDevStatus, AckWaitReply, DevSys, DevCc
p, card device type notification] packet to the printer device via an external interface for transmission to DevCcp (card control unit). Ack field is A for printer device
Since the ckWaitReply and the Did2 field are DevCcp, this packet is transferred to DevCcp (card control unit) via the interface or the internal bus.

(4) Next, the host device obtains a request message Msg3 (A) [MsgDevStatus, AckWaitReply, D
evSys, DevPrt, detailed status information (requires host)] packet to the printer device.

(5) The DevCcp (card control unit) checks the card device and generates card device type information in accordance with the request of (3). Since the Ack field is AckWaitReply, the response message Msg2 (R) [MsgDevStatus , A
ckReplyOk, DevSys, DevCcp, card device type information] packet is sent to the printer device via the interface or the internal bus so as to return to the requesting host device. The printer device has Ack field of AckReplyOk and Did
Since one field is DevSys, this packet is transferred to the host device via the external interface. Then, the host device determines that the Ack field is AckReplyOk and Did1
Since the field is DevSys, the reply is addressed to itself, so analyze the packet contents. As a result, the host device can correctly recognize the type of the attached card device.

(6) The printer generates the requested detailed status information according to the request of (4), and since the Ack field is AckWaitReply, the response message Ms
g3 (R) [MsgDevStatus, AckReplyOk, DevSys, DevPrt,
Detailed (requested) status information] packet is sent to the requesting host device via the external interface. Then, the host device determines that the Ack field is AckReplyOk and Did1
Since the field is DevSys, the reply is addressed to itself, so analyze the packet contents. As a result, the host device can correctly recognize the state of the printer device.

(7) Next, the host device issues a request message Msg4 to acquire file information on the card device.
(A) [MsgFile, AckWaitReply, DevSys, DevCcp, File
Info (file information notification)] packet is sent to the printer device via an external interface for transmission to DevCcp (card control unit). Ack field is Ack for printer device
Since the WaitReply and Did2 field are DevCcp, this packet is sent via the interface or internal bus.
Transfer to DevCcp (card control unit).

(8) When the power of the CPH 430 (cellular phone) is turned on by the user, the radio communication control unit of the CPH 430 (cellular phone) informs the radio communication control unit on the CDV 200 (card device) of the fact. . In response to this, the card device notifies DevCcp (card control unit) of the fact. Next, since the DevCcp (card control unit) performs packet communication control on behalf of the cellular phone, a request message Msg5 (A) [MsgCommand, AckWa is issued to notify the host device that the cellular phone is connected.
ItReply, DevCph, DevSys, Cellular Phone Connection Notification] packet is transmitted to the PCT 11 (printer control circuit) via the interface or the internal bus. Since the Ack field is AckWaitReply and the Did2 field is DevSys, the printer control unit transfers this packet to the host device via the external interface. Since the Ack field is AckWaitReply and the Did2 field is DevSys, the host device is a request addressed to itself.
The packet contents are analyzed, and as a result, it is recognized that the cellular phone is connected.

(9) The DevCcp (card control unit) reads the file information on the card device according to the request of (7), and since the Ack field is AckWaitReply, the response message Msg4 (R) [MsgFile, AckReplyOk, DevSys ,
DevCcp, FileInfo file information] packet is sent to the printer device via the interface or the internal bus in order to return the packet to the requesting host device. Since the Ack field is AckReplyOk and the Did1 field is DevSys, the printer device transfers this packet to the host device via the external interface.

Then, the host device sets the Ack field to Ack.
Since ReplyOk and Did1 field are DevSys,
Since the reply is addressed to you, analyze the packet contents.
As a result, the host device can correctly recognize the file information on the card device.

(10) Next, the printer device prepares a request message Msg6 (A) to obtain output resource information of the display device DISP140 of the host device as preparation for outputting a message or the like to the display device of the host device. [MsgUI, AckWaitR
eply, DevPrt, DevDisp, UiConfig Notify only output resources] Sends a packet to the host device via the external interface.

(11) In response to the request of (8), since the Ack field is AckWaitReply, the host device responds to the response message Msg5 (R) [MsgCommand, AckReplyOk, DevCp
h, DevSys, Cellular phone connection notification] packet is sent to the printer device via the external interface to return to the request source DevCph (cellular phone). In the printer device, the Ack field is AckReplyOk and the Did1 field is D.
Since this is an evCph, this packet is transferred to DevCcp (card control unit) via an interface or an internal bus. Since the Ack field is AckReplyOk and the Did1 field is DevCph, the DevCcp (card control unit) analyzes the packet contents because it is acting for packet communication control (although it is a reply addressed to the cellular phone). , (If necessary) CDV 200 (card device)
The connection permission is given to the wireless communication control unit and the cellular phone.

(12) Since the host device performs the packet communication control of the DISP 140, the response message Msg6 (R) [MsgUI, AckReplyOk, DevPrt,
DevDisp, UiConfig output resource information] packet to the printer via an external interface. As a result, the printer device can acquire the configuration information of the display device resources of the host device.

(13) Next, the host device issues a request message via an external interface to cause the printer device to print out the file information obtained in (9) above.
Msg73 (N) [MsgPrint, AckNoReply, DevSys, DevPrt,
Print control command] packet is sent to the printer device. Then, the printer device starts the requested printing operation.
Since the Ack field is AckNoReply, no response message is returned.

By controlling communication as described above, communication control between devices can be smoothly performed even when a large number of devices are connected.

(Embodiment 11) Next, a request message analysis control program using the packet format described in FIG. 10 will be described with reference to FIG. This control program is stored in the storage means of each device such as the RAM in the STC 111 (system control unit) of the host device 100, the ROM 13 in the printer device 1, and the ROM 33 in the card device control unit CCT 30 in FIGS. Is stored. In this embodiment, DevSys (host device) described in Table 3 is used.
100), DevPrt (printer device 1), DevCct (card control unit CCT 30), DevCp (operation panel CP 130), DevDis
p (image input / output device DISP 140), DevAud (audio input / output device AUD 140), DevEmm (external memory EMM 180), DevK
The request message analysis control of the device b (keyboard input device KB 310) and DevPdv (pointing device input device PDV 320) will be described in detail below. Note that the host device 1 in the present embodiment includes the devices DevSys, DevCp, DevDi.
It supports seven types of devices, sp, DevAud, DevEmm, DevKb, and DevPdv, and has seven sets of processing 1 described below.

Processing 1 shown in the figure is a request message analysis control program processing started when each device type receives a request message for its own device. That is, if the Ack field of the packet is AckNoReply or AckNo
When the WaitReply and Did2 fields are of the own device type, the contents of the request in the Msg field described in Table 1 are analyzed, and MsgPacketSize to MsgComm described in Table 1 as shown in the figure.
Each of the processing steps S1 to S13 corresponding to the nad request is executed. That is, the following processing is executed according to the contents of the Msg field.

(1) If MsgPacketSize, step S1
In the processing, it is determined whether the packet size requested in the Data field can be received or not, and if possible, Ack
AckReplyOk in the field and the requested packet size in the Str field.
Set the receivable packet size in the ckReplyNg and Str fields and return a response message to the Did1 device.

(2) In the case of MsgDevConfig, in step S2, AckReplyOk is set in the Ack field and the Config information in Table 4 is set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device.

(3) In the case of MsgDevStatus, if there is no error in the request content in step S3, A
The basic status information of Table 5 and the detailed status information of the item specified in the Data field are set in the ckReplyOk and Str fields, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error, AckReplyN is added to the Ack field.
The basic status information and Data in Table 5 in the g and Str fields
Extract the error part of the parameter specified in the field and St
Set in the r field and return a response message to the Did1 device.

(4) When MsgUI and the head of the Data field are UiConfig in Table 6, if there is no error in the request content in step S4, the user holds the Ack field in the Ack field and AckReplyOk described in Table 6 The configuration information of the interface resource is requested by the Data field.
One of the input operation resource configuration information only / output resource configuration information only / input / output resource configuration information is set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error, AckReplyNg and Dat
Extract the error part of the parameter specified in the a field and S
Set in the tr field and return a response message to the Did1 device.

(5) When MsgUI and the head of the Data field are UiSelect in Table 6, if there is no error in the request contents in step S5, the data that can be used in the Data field can be used / not used. Judgment is made, and if available, the input operation or output resource requested as operation resource use management information is reserved by the device type of Did1 and stored in the Ack field.
The information of the I / O operation resource permitted to use is set in the yOk and Str fields, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If not available, AckReplyN in Ack field
The information of the unavailable input / output operation resources is set in the g and Str fields, and the information is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request, the Ack field contains AckReplyNg and Dat
Extract the error part of the parameter specified in the a field and S
Set in the tr field and return a response message to the Did1 device. Further, when the use of the input operation designated by the event notification at the time of the request is permitted, when the corresponding operation is detected later, the fact is notified (automatically) to the Did1 device by a predetermined response message (MsgUI + UiRead). It is also possible.

(6) When the MsgUI and the head of the Data field are UiRead in Table 6, in step S6, there is no error in the request contents, and the request item is the operation resource management stored by the UiSelect command of (4). If registered in the information, AckReplyOk is set in the Ack field, and the state of the input operation resource requested in the Data field is set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request, or if the requested item is not included in the operation resource management information, extract the error part of the parameter specified in the AckReplyNg and Data fields in the Ack field, set it in the Str field, and set it in the Did field.
1 Return a response message to the device.

(7) When MsgUI and the head of the Data field are UiWrite in Table 6, in step S7, there is no error in the request content, and the requested item is the operation resource management stored by the UiSelect command in (4). If it is registered in the information, it performs display and audio output according to the item requested in the Data field, sets AckReplyOk in the Ack field, and returns a response message to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request, or if the requested item is not included in the operation resource management information, the AckRe
The error part of the parameter specified in plyNg and Data field is extracted, set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device.

(8) If MsgFile and the beginning of the Data field are FileInfo in Table 8, in step S8 processing, if there is no error in the request contents, the AckReplyO
k, and information corresponding to the request item described in Table 8 in the Data field, for example, file directory information,
File attribute information such as designated file information, for example, file name, data type, file size, modification information (read-only / erasable / unable, copy-enabled / unavailable, user visibility, password protection, etc.) And information such as free space is set in the Str field and Did
Reply to one device.

If there is an error in the request, AckReplyNg is extracted in the Ack field and an error portion of the parameter specified in the Data field is extracted and set in the Str field.
1 Return a response message to the device.

(9) When MsgFile and the beginning of the Data field are FileOpen to FileWrite in Table 8, if there is no error in the request contents in step S9, A is added to the Ack field.
According to the request of ckReplyOk and Data field, the file operation processing as described in (1) to (8) in Table 8 is executed, and information relating to the file operation is set in the Str field and Did is set.
1 Return a response message to the device.

If there is an error in the request, AckReplyNg in the Ack field and an error portion of the parameter specified in the Data field are extracted and set in the Str field.
1 Return a response message to the device. (10) MsgFi
If le and the beginning of the Data field are FileFormat in Table 8, in step S10 processing, if there is no error in the request contents, the Ack field contains AckReplyOk, and the file format described in Table 8 according to the request in the Data field. Executes the process, sets information related to the format process in the Str field, and returns a response message to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request,
AckReplyNg is extracted in the field and the error part of the parameter specified in the Data field is extracted and set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device.

(11) Step S11 for MsgPrint
In the process, if there is no error in the request contents, the printing operation according to the request is performed, and when the request operation is successfully performed, if the Ack field of the request message is AckWaitReply, set AckReplyOk in the Ack field and respond to the Did1 device Reply message. If the request operation cannot be performed normally, the Ack field of the request message is set to AckWaitRepl
If y, set AckReplyNg and operation error information in the Ack field in the Str field, and return a response message to the Did1 device.

If the request message contains an error and the Ack field of the request message is AckWaitReply, the AckReplyNg is extracted in the Ack field and the error portion of the parameter specified in the Data field is extracted and set in the Str field.
Returns a response message to the id1 device.

(12) Step S for MsgPrintText
In step 12, if there is no error in the contents of the request, a simple print operation according to the request is performed, and if the Ack field of the request message is AckWaitReply when the request operation is normally performed, Ack is performed.
Set AckReplyOk in the field and return a response message to Did1 device. If the request operation cannot be performed normally, the Ack field of the request message
If it is WaitReply, AckReplyNg and operation error information are set in the Ack field in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request content, the Ack field of the request message is set to AckWait
If it is Reply, AckReplyNg is extracted in the Ack field and the error part of the parameter specified in the Data field is extracted, set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device.

(13) In the case of MsgCommand, step S1
In step 3, if there is no error in the request contents, the extended function according to the request is executed. If the Ack field of the request message is AckWaitReply when the request operation is normally performed, AckReplyOk is set in the Ack field and Did1 Reply message to the device. If the request operation cannot be performed normally, the Ack field of the request message is set to AckWa
In the case of itReply, AckReplyNg and operation error information are set in the Ack field in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device. If there is an error in the request content, the Ack field of the request message is set to AckWaitRe
If it is ply, AckReplyNg is extracted in the Ack field and the error part of the parameter specified in the Data field is extracted and set in the Str field, and a response message is returned to the Did1 device.

Each of the above processes (steps S1 to S
In 13), the device itself does not support the requested function (for example, DevPrt does not support the MsgFile function)
In this case, AckReplyNg is set in the Ack field and the parameter requested in the Data field is set in the Str field, and the response is returned to the Did1 device. Also, Ac in the request message
When the k field is AckNoReply, the above reply is not basically performed. However, the purpose of the requested function is only meaningful to return information, such as MsgP
acketSize, MsgDevConfig, MsgDevStatus, UiCo of MsgUI
For requests such as nfig, MsgUI's UiRead, even Ack
Even if NoReply is specified, the above reply is made.

(Embodiment 11) Next, an example of a control program that can be applied by the above-described embodiments 1 to 10 will be described in detail with reference to flowcharts.

First, the processing 2 in FIG.
30 or one of the control programs of the card control circuit CCNT40, and the program is stored in the ROM 3 of the card control unit CCT30.
3 or stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control. When the card device CDV200 is inserted into the card device insertion slot provided in the printer device 1, this control program causes the card control unit CCT30 to execute the card device insertion by an interrupt signal or the like.
Alternatively, the processing is executed when the card control circuit CCNT40 recognizes.

First, in step S20, the type of the attached card device CDV200 is read, and then, in step S21, card device connection notification information such as hardware configuration information of the attached card device is generated. Then, in process 9 described later, the card device connection notification information is sent to the host device 100 via the printer device 1 via an interface or an internal bus, and the control program ends.

Next, processing 3 in FIG.
30 or one of the control programs of the card control circuit CCNT40.
The data is stored in the ROM 33 of the printer 30 or the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform the desired control. This control program is executed by the card control unit when the card device CDV200 is inserted into the card device insertion slot provided in the printer device 1 by an interrupt signal or the like.
This is executed when the CCT 30 or the card control circuit CCNT 40 recognizes, or when an external communication device such as a CPH430 (cellular phone) is connected via the card device communication control unit of the card device 200. In response to the described MsgUI request, the L
6 is an example of a control program that uses a display such as an ED and a display output of a DISP140 of a host device from a card control unit.

First, in step S40, the printer 1 (Dev
The LED display of the Prt device blinks to inform the user that the connection of the device such as a card device or cellular phone is being confirmed. Next, in step S41, the display output device DISP140 (DveDisp device) of the host device.
To display a message or an image such as an icon for notifying the user that the device connection is being confirmed, or output a sound to the AUD 140 (DevAud device) equipped with the audio output to notify that the device connection is being confirmed. Then, in step S41, a target process, for example, a process such as the process 2 described above when a card device is connected, and a device connection confirmation procedure and the like when an external communication device such as a CPH430 (cellular phone) is connected are performed.

When these target processes are completed, a step
In step S43, the LED of the printer device started blinking in step S41 is stopped, and in step S44, the message displayed in step S41 is deleted, a message notifying the end of the device connection procedure is displayed for a fixed time, or The end of the connection procedure is notified by voice. Then, in step S45, the display such as the message displayed in step S44 is erased, and the control program ends.

Next, the processing 4 in FIG. 15 is one of the control programs of the host device. This control program is, for example, read from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device when necessary, and stores the RAM in the system control unit (SCT). Or loaded into
Alternatively, it is stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform the desired control.

This control program is executed when the host device performs a file operation on the card device CDV200 mounted on the printer device 1, and the MsgUI request described in the ninth embodiment described above causes the LED of the printer device 1 to operate. 5 is an example of a control program that uses the display device of FIG.

First, in step S60, the printer 1 (Dev
The LED display of the Prt device blinks to notify the user that the card device is being accessed, and then in step S61, a file operation is performed on the memory in the target card device, for example, a file read / write operation. . When these target processes are completed, in step S62 the LED of the printer device started in step S60.
The blinking stops and the control program ends.

Next, the processing 5 in FIG. 16 is also one of the control programs of the host device, and this control program is, for example, read from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device when it is necessary to store the RAM of the system control unit (SCT). Or loaded into
Alternatively, it is stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform the desired control.

This control program is an example of a control program when the host device shifts to the power saving mode when a user operation or no operation is performed for a predetermined time or more. First, in step S80, a request to the connected device such as the printer device 1 is requested to shift to the power saving mode by a predetermined command or the like, and in step S81, the completion of shifting to the power saving mode is completed for all requested devices. . Then, when it is confirmed that all the request destination devices have shifted to the power saving mode, the host device itself also shifts to the power saving mode in step S82, and this control program ends.

Finally, the processing 6 in FIG. 17 is also one of the control programs of the host device, and this control program is executed, for example, from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device when necessary by the system control unit (SCT). Is loaded in a RAM or stored in a ROM or the like in advance, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control.

This control program includes a keyboard input device (KB310) and a wireless keyboard input device (W
This is an example of a control program for the host device to obtain a character input from a cellular phone (CPH430) or the like.

First, in step S100, available keyboard input devices connected to the system are investigated and confirmed. If at least one keyboard input device that can be used is found, in step S101, the process proceeds to step S101. A request is made to an available keyboard input device for use of the input operation resource, and a use permission notification from the request destination is waited for, and the process proceeds to step S102.

If no usable keyboard input device is found as a result of step S100,
The process proceeds to step S102 without requesting the use of the input operation resource as in S101. In step S102, a device that is connected to the system and has another available 10-key input device, such as a cellular phone (CPH430), is checked and confirmed, and at least one device can be used. If found, in step S103, a request for use of operation resources such as a 10-key input or a character input operation by a 10-key operation is made to an available device, and a use permission notification from the request destination is waited for. Move to step S104.
If no usable device is found as a result of step S102, the process proceeds to step S104 without requesting use of input operation resources as in step S103.

In step S104, the system waits for a character input from the one whose use has been requested, and if there is a character input, provides the input character information to an application program or the like that requires the character input. If the input device cannot be found in both step S100 and step S102, at least the conventional character input means (for example, DISP which is a display output device of the host device) is determined in step S104.
140 hiragana 51 characters, alphabet 52 characters (uppercase /
Lowercase letters, numbers, symbols, etc. are switched and displayed by selecting operations using the cursor keys / buttons on the operation panel (CP130), and the cursor keys /
A character input function is provided by a character input means that repeats an operation such as a character selection confirmation operation by a button operation.
Then, when the character input operation becomes unnecessary, the control program ends.

As described above, the input operation means of the device connected to the system and the resources such as the LED display and the character / image output device can be used from other devices as necessary. The status of the connected device can be used from other devices as needed. By utilizing these functions, it is possible to minimize or eliminate the addition of indicators such as LED indicators and operation buttons for the purpose of improving the operability of devices. By using the display device of the device, the audio output device, and the like, it is possible to provide an image processing system that is easy to understand even for a novice user and easy to use, for example, by color display, icons, messages, voices, and the like. . Although the example of the control program introduced above does not describe an example in which the printer device uses the input / output resources of another device, the connection is established when an error such as running out of printing paper occurs during printing of the printer. A message such as "Printer is out of paper!" Can be displayed using the cellular phone display.

(Embodiment 12) Next, an example of a control program related to error processing applicable to the configurations of the above-described Embodiments 1 to 10 will be described in detail with reference to flowcharts. When the printer device having the above system configuration cannot communicate with the host device, for example, when the power of the host device is turned off or an interface cable for connecting the printer device and the host device is not connected, for example, the user may remove the card device. Even if the printer device is used, communication from the card control unit CCT30 and the printer device to the host device is not possible, and in this state, there is a problem that a function of automatically detecting the mounting of the card device as described above cannot be provided by the host device.

These are interpreted as the main cause of the user's erroneous operation of "the power supply of the host device is not turned on or the interface cable is not connected". The troubleshooting in such a state was dealt with only by the operation manual. However, it is expected that there will be many users of the home system device as provided in the present invention, that is, so-called beginners. Therefore, even in such a solution for erroneous operation, it is necessary to carefully read the operation manual and the like as much as possible. It is also important to be able to communicate a solution that is as simple and easy to understand as possible without increasing the operability. Therefore, in the present embodiment, at least in a state where power is supplied to the printer device, (1) "when communication with the card device is not possible,
When the host device requests the printer device for the card device, a method of informing the user of at least an operation error using a display / buzzer or the like provided in the printer device "and (2) )
"A method to notify the user of at least an operation error using a display / buzzer provided in the printer device when communication with the host device is not possible", and
(3) "When communication with the host device is not possible, a request to the host device due to a user operation is stored as an error history in the printer device, and the communication between the host device and the printer device becomes possible later. The following describes a control program of "a method in which the host device reads an error history from the printer device, analyzes the operation content and order of the erroneous operation, and guides the operation using characters, pictures, sounds, etc. on the screen."

First, the process 7 in FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the control program of the above-mentioned (1) system.
This control program is one of the control programs for the printer device. The program is stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 in the printer device, and the CPU executes the desired control by reading and executing it as needed. Can be performed.

This control program is a reception control program executed when request information and the like are transmitted from the host device to the printer device 1 through the external interface. First, it is determined whether the information received from the host device in step S120 is a request for a function such as printing to the printer device by the means described in the above-described eighth or ninth embodiment. The conventional printing operation control of the printer device is executed, and the control program ends.

On the other hand, in the case of a card control-related request in step S120, it is determined in step S122 whether or not a card device is mounted. If a card device is mounted, in step S123 the card is connected via an interface or an internal bus. The request information from the host device is transferred to the control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40, and the control program ends. On the other hand, when the card device is not mounted in step S122, the LED provided in the printer device is turned on or blinked to notify the user that an operation error has occurred in step S124, or when a buzzer is provided, The buzzer is sounded, and the host device is notified via the external interface that the request has ended with an error, and the control program ends.

Next, the processing 8 in FIG.
It is a flowchart figure explaining the control program of (3) system. This control program is one of the control programs for the printer device. The program is stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 in the printer device, and the CPU executes the desired control by reading and executing it as needed. Can be performed.

This control program is executed by the card device 200
Request from the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 to the printer device 1 via an interface or an internal bus by a user operation related to the above or a user operation from an externally connected device capable of communicating with the card device communication control unit 210 of the card device 200. This is a reception control program executed when information or the like is transmitted.

First, in step S140, the card control unit CCT3
0 or the information received from the card control circuit CCNT40 through the interface or the internal bus or the like is determined by the means described in the eighth embodiment or the ninth embodiment as request information for a function such as printing to a printer device. For example, in step S141, the conventional printing operation control of the printer is executed, and the control program ends.

On the other hand, in the case of a card control-related request in step S140, it is determined in step S142 whether communication with the host device is possible. If communication is possible, the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 in step S143. Is transferred to the host device via the external interface, and this control program ends.

On the other hand, if it is impossible to communicate with the host device in step S142, it can be recorded in the error history in step S144.
/ Impossible / recording unnecessary, and if recording impossible or recording unnecessary, in order to notify the user that an operation error has occurred in step S145, the LED provided in the printer device is lit or blinked, When the printer device has a buzzer, the buzzer sounds. Further, the control program notifies the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 that the request has ended in error via the interface or the internal bus, and ends the control program.

On the other hand, if the error history can be recorded in step S144, the request information from the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 is recorded as error history information in the RAM 12 or the nonvolatile memory in step S146. In step S147, the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT4 via the interface or the internal bus
In response to this, the control program is notified that "the request information could not be transmitted to the host device and was stored in the error history", and the control program was terminated. If the user wants to notify the user of the operation error immediately, in step S147, the user is required to notify the user of the occurrence of the operation error by turning on or blinking an LED provided on the printer device or providing a buzzer. May be added to the process for sounding a buzzer. Step S1
The error history information recorded in 46 may be only a part of the received request information. That is, the recorded error history information is later analyzed by the host device, and it is sufficient if there is information that can determine even the operation error procedure.

Next, the process 9 in FIG. 20 is a flow chart for explaining a control program of the above-mentioned method (2) or (3) which is different from the process 8. This control program is one of the control programs for the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40.
It is stored in the M33 or in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control.

This control program is executed by the card device 200
Request from the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 to the printer device 1 via an interface or an internal bus by a user operation related to the above or a user operation from an externally connected device capable of communicating with the card device communication control unit 210 of the card device 200. This is a transmission control program to be executed when transmitting information and the like.

First, it is determined in step S160 whether the printer device and the host device can communicate with each other. If communication is possible, in step S161 the printer is transmitted from the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 through an interface or an internal bus. The request information is transmitted to the host device via the device, and the control program ends.

On the other hand, if it is impossible to communicate with the host device in step S160, it can be recorded in the error history in step S162.
If it is determined that recording is not possible / recording is not possible, and recording is not possible or recording is not required, the LED provided in the printer device is turned on via an interface or an internal bus to notify the user of an operation error in step S163. A request to turn on or blink, or to sound the buzzer when the printer device has a buzzer, "and terminates the control program.

On the other hand, if the error history can be recorded in step S162, the request information that was to be transmitted in step S164 is stored in the RAM 32 (or in the case of the configurations of FIGS.
M12) or record it as error history information in a non-volatile memory or the like, and in step S165, notify the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 that "the request information could not be transmitted to the host device and was stored in the error history". hand,
This control program ends.

If it is desired to notify the user of the operation error immediately, the process proceeds to step S165 in order to notify the user that an operation error has occurred.
It is only necessary to add a process for turning on or blinking the LED and requesting the buzzer to sound when the printer device has a buzzer. The error history information recorded in step S164 may be only a part of the received request information. That is, the recorded error history information is later analyzed by the host device, and it is sufficient if there is information that can determine even the operation error procedure.

Finally, process 10 in FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the control program of the above-mentioned (3) method. This control program is one of the control programs of the host device. The program is loaded from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device to the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary, or It is stored in a ROM or the like in advance, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control.

This control program is an error operation guide control program that is executed when the host device recognizes the connection with the printer device and communication becomes possible. First,
In step S180, it is determined whether the error history information stored in step S146 of process 8 or step S164 of process 9 exists by acquiring the status of the printer device or the card control, and if the error history information does not exist, The process proceeds to other normal processes (step S181). On the other hand, if the error history information exists, the error history information is read from the printer or the card control unit in step S182,
In step S183, a display output device DISP140 or an audio output AUD is provided to notify the user of an operation error.
140 and the like, at least output indicating that there was an operation error, analyze the error history information in step S184, the order in which the error occurred, and a character, picture, The operation guide such as voice is output to the display output device DISP140 or the audio output AUD 140, and when the user is instructed to stop the operation guide by a predetermined operation or the like, the control program ends.

For example, if the content of the error history information is a card device installation notification, an operation such as "Turn on the power of the apparatus main body. Then, set the card in the printer." It is possible to output a guide message.

Embodiment 13 Next, an example of a control program related to print control applicable to the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail with reference to a flowchart.

First, step 11 in FIG. 22 is a flowchart for explaining a control program related to print control of the printer.

This control program is one of the control programs for the printer device. The program is stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 in the printer device, and is read and executed by the CPU as needed when necessary. Can be controlled.

This control program is executed by the card device 200
Request from the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40 to the printer device 1 via an interface or an internal bus by a user operation related to the above or a user operation from an externally connected device capable of communicating with the card device communication control unit 210 of the card device 200. This is a reception control program that is executed when such information is transmitted.

First, in step S200, the card control unit CCT3
0 or the information received from the card control circuit CCNT40 through the interface or the internal bus or the like is determined as the request information for the printing function by the means described in the eighth embodiment or the ninth embodiment, and if so, in step S201 It is determined whether the printer device is in a sleep state such as a power saving mode.
If it is necessary to initialize the mechanical mechanism of the printer unit PU20 of the printer device, the printer initial operation is started, and thereafter the request information is sent to the host device, and as a result, the host device A print operation is started in advance so that a print operation that starts when a print request is issued to the device or a simple print operation in which the request information can be printed by the printer alone, such as the MsgPrintText request described in the above embodiment, can be started as soon as possible. Let me
Proceed to the following step S204.

On the other hand, if the printer is not in the sleep state in step S201, the printer has already completed the initial operation and the like, and can print anytime. Therefore, it is not necessary to perform the printer initial operation as in step S202, and the process proceeds to step S204. . Next, in step S204, the request information is Ms
It is determined whether the request is related to a simple printing function that can be printed by the printer alone, such as a gPrintText request. If so, a simple printing operation such as character printing according to the request information is executed in step S206, and the control program ends.

On the other hand, if the print function is via the normal host device in step S204, the request information is transferred to the host device via the external interface in step S205, and the control program ends. Further, if the request information is other than the printing function in step S200, even if the printer device is in a sleep state such as a power saving mode, it is not necessary to prepare the printer in a printable state as in step S202, so In step S205, similarly, the request information is transferred to the host device, and the control program ends. still,
In step S205, control for transferring the request information to the host device can be performed by using the process 8 in FIG.

Next, the processing 12 in FIG.
This control program is one of the control programs of the T30 or the card control circuit CCNT40.
0 is stored in the ROM 33 of the printer control unit 10 or the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control. The control program is executed on the card device in a state where the card device CDV200 is mounted or in a state where an external communication device such as CPH430 (cellular phone) is connected via the card device communication control unit of the card device 200. 9 is an example of a print control program of a card control unit related to a function of printing data or printing a received mail or the like requested by an externally connected device such as a cellular phone.

Incidentally, when an instruction such as character printing is given by a predetermined operation, the execution of this control program is started.

First, in step S220, the printing capability of the printer 1 is checked by the device configuration / device state reading means described above, and, for example, whether the printer has font information such as CG or the printer has an emulation function. Such information is obtained from the printer device, and the desired print information is composed of only simple image information and character information, for example, and when the printer is provided with the image and character print functions, It is determined that printing can be performed by the printer alone, and printing control (for example, using the above-described MsgPrintText request message or the like) is performed in step S222 with print control information that enables the printer device to print alone. On the other hand, if the desired print information includes a high-quality image or the like and cannot be printed only by the function of the printer alone, in step S221, the data necessary for printing is passed to the host device via the printer device, and Printing is performed by sending print control control information for printing a desired image from the device to the printer device.

Next, a process 13 in FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining a control program related to communication control of the printer described in the configuration of the eighth embodiment.
This control program is one of the control programs for the printer device. The program is stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 in the printer device, and the CPU executes the desired control by reading and executing it as needed. Can be performed.

This control program is executed in accordance with the above-described FIGS.
The communication control program exclusively controls the external interface bus 2 connecting the host device and the printer device in the system configuration 3 and the interface bus BUS3 connecting the printer control unit and the card control unit in the printer device. .

When the request information of a large amount of data such as print control information is received from the host device via the external interface bus BUS2, the execution of this control program is started. First, in step S240, it is determined whether the communication of the interface bus BUS3 is already restricted by step S241,
If the restriction has already been made, the process proceeds to step S241. On the other hand, if the restriction is not being imposed, the restriction of the communication control of the interface bus BUS3 connecting the card control unit and the printer control unit is started in step S241.

The term "restriction" here means that, for example, the interface bus BUS3 may simply be in a busy state to physically prohibit communication with the card control unit. It is also possible to cause the card control unit to wait for a large amount of data communication by clearly indicating that the printer device is communicating with the host device by the protocol means or the like.

Then, in step S242, a printing process or the like according to a request for print control information or the like received from the host device is started. Next, in step S243, it is determined whether print control that requires a large amount of data request information such as print control information from the host device has ended (for example, the end of a print job). If the print control has not ended , The restriction is continued, and the process proceeds to step S245. On the other hand, when the print control is completed, the communication restriction of the interface bus BUS3 connecting the card control unit and the printer control unit is released in step S244 to enable normal communication, and the process proceeds to step S245.
Then, in step S245, other necessary conventional processing such as post-processing is executed, and the control program ends.

As described above, while a large amount of data communication with one interface bus is being performed, the other interface is temporarily limited in communication so that, for example, the printer control unit can perform printing during printing from the host device. Can restrict data communication from the card control unit, so that the printer can concentrate on only the control related to the printing operation. With this configuration, the circuit configuration of the printer control unit can be simplified and the required processing performance of the CPU can be suppressed, so that the cost of the entire apparatus can also be suppressed.

If the function of the card device is, for example, only a memory function, the host device reads, for example, file information on the card device as the application function using the card device. The host device generates print control information from the file information and causes the printer device to print. With such a control procedure, there is no problem that the performance of the system configuration is deteriorated even in the configuration of the present embodiment.

(Embodiment 14) Next, an example of a device control program applicable to the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to flowcharts.

First, the processing 14 and the processing 15 in FIG. 25 are one of the control programs of the host device, and this control program is executed by the system control unit (SCT) when necessary, for example, from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device. RAM
It is loaded in the ROM or stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control.

This control program is a management control program for device control in which the host device uses a device connected to the system. The execution of the control program is started when the system of the host device or the application program is started. First, step S2
In step 60, all of the detachable and usable devices connected to the system are checked, and when a newly connected device is found, the device control program for the device found in step S261 is searched and read out in the following procedure. , Stored in the RAM of the STC111 (system control unit) in the host device,
Update device connection management information. The procedure for searching and reading the device control program is as follows. First, if the RDV (read-only storage medium) of the host device is in a readable state, the RDV search is performed, and if a suitable control program is found, the search is terminated. . If the RDV cannot be read because the storage medium is not set in the RDV, or if an appropriate one cannot be found from the RDV as a result of the search, the EMM (extended memory) is searched next and the appropriate When you find something you like, end the search.

Further, if the EMM is not mounted or the search results cannot be found, it is checked whether or not the target connected device has a control program, and if so, the search is terminated. If it is still not found, it is checked whether it is connected to the Internet / network. If it is connected, a predetermined external connection server or the like is searched, and if an appropriate server is found, the search is terminated.

[0290] If the device is not connected to the Internet / network, or if an appropriate device cannot be found by searching a predetermined external connection server or the like, other devices connected to the system are not connected. When a suitable one is found by searching the storage means, the search is terminated.

If an appropriate one cannot be found even after performing the above search, the search is terminated as undiscovered. If you find the target device control program as a result of the search,
The device control program is read from the location where it was found. If the target device cannot be found, the target device is made unusable. If there is another newly connected device in step S260, the device driver searches and reads out the device driver and updates the device connection management information again in step S261. When the recognition of the status of all connected devices is completed, the process proceeds to processing 15.

In the process 15, the consistency between the device control program of the connected device and the target device control program is determined with reference to the device connection management information in step S262, and all the connected devices and each device control program are checked. If there is a match, the process proceeds to step S269, and all the connected device devices are set in a usable state, and the control program ends. On the other hand, if an inconsistent connected device is detected in step S62, and if the control program of the corresponding device cannot be rewritten in step S263, the search result is determined to be “not found” and the process proceeds to step S264. On the other hand, if rewritable, an optimum control program is searched.

The search destination first checks whether there is a control program in the target connected device, and if so, terminates the search. If it cannot be found, then if the host device's RDV (read-only storage medium) is
When DV search is performed and a suitable control program is found, the search is terminated.

If the RDV cannot be read out because a storage medium or the like is not set in the RDV, or if an appropriate one cannot be found from the RDV as a result of the search, an EMM (extended memory) is next transferred. When the search finds an appropriate one, end the search. In addition, if EMM is not installed,
If the result of the search is that no connection can be found, it is checked whether or not the device is connected to the Internet / network. If connected, a predetermined external connection server or the like is searched.

[0295] If no connection to the Internet / network is found, or if an appropriate server cannot be found even after searching a predetermined external connection server, other devices connected to the system When a suitable one is found by searching the storage means, the search is terminated. If an appropriate item cannot be found even after performing the above search, the search is terminated as undiscovered.

Next, the result of the search in step S263 is determined in step S246, and if not found, in step S268,
Set to not use the target device,
An error notification is displayed on the screen or the like, and the process ends. On the other hand, if an appropriate control program is found, the current control program information is read from the target device in step S265, and the control program information is stored in a non-volatile memory such as an EMM as necessary.

It should be noted that the control program information is stored in all the connected devices having rewritable and storable nonvolatile storage means connected to the system, for example, card devices and external devices connected to the Internet / network. It can be stored in such as. Read the optimal control program information from the place where the result of the search was found in step S266, rewrite the control program of the target device to the optimal control program in step S267, and in step S296, the connected device, and Only compatible devices are set as available devices, and the process ends. still,
During steps S265 to S267, a warning message such as "The connected device program is currently being updated. Please do not turn off the power!" May be displayed on the display or the like.

Next, the process 16 in FIG. 26 is one of the control programs of the host device, and this control program is, for example, read from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device when necessary and the RAM of the system control unit (SCT). It is loaded in the ROM or stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read out and execute it as needed to perform desired control. This control program is a management control program for device control in which the host device uses a device connected to the system.

The execution of the control program is started when the application program is started in the host device.
First, in step S280, device device information that can be used is obtained from the above-described process 14, and management information such as header information recorded on the same recording medium as the application program to be started in step S281 is acquired, and The devices required by the application program to be started are extracted, and it is determined in step S282 whether at least one of the devices extracted in step S281 is connected, and no device required for the application / program is connected. In this case, an error message is output in step S285, for example, a message such as "Please set the card in the printer."

On the other hand, if at least one necessary device is connected at step S282 and at least one of the functions provided by the application program can be used by only the connected device, the application selected at step S283 is used. Start the program and step S2
At 84, the application program processing is executed. Next, processing 17 in FIG. 27 is one of the control programs of the card control unit CCT30 or the card control circuit CCNT40,
This control program is stored in the ROM 33 of the card control unit CCT 30 or the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10,
Can be read out and executed as needed to perform desired control.

This control program is executed by the card device CDV2
00 is a card device and card control unit consistency control program that is executed when the card control unit CCT 30 or the card control circuit CCNT 40 recognizes that a card device has been mounted.

First, in step S290, the function version information of the card device is obtained. In step S291, the ROM 33 of the card control unit CCT30 or the ROM1 of the printer control unit 10 is obtained.
Compared with the function version information of the card control unit stored in step 3, if there is compatibility and consistency in function control, in step S294, the setting is made so that the card device can be used, and the host device such as a card device connection notification And the process ends.

On the other hand, if there is no compatibility / consistency in step S291, control program information for the card control unit having compatibility / consistency such as addition of a new function exists on the card device in step S292. If there is, the control program information on the card device is read out in step S293, and a part or the whole of the control program stored in the ROM 33 of the card control unit CCT30 or the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 is rewritten. In step S294, the setting is made so that the card device can be used.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S292 that there is no control program information for the card control unit having compatibility and consistency such as addition of a new function on the card device, control is performed in step S295 as in the above-described processing 15. When the host device requests the host device to rewrite the control program of the card control unit from the host device, and in step S296, if the host device can be successfully updated to a control program compatible and compatible with the card device, In step S294, the setting is made so that the card device can be used.

On the other hand, if the host device cannot update the control program in step S296, it is set in step S297 that the connected card device cannot be used, and a notification of card device incompatibility is sent to the host device. The host device sends a warning message on the display, such as "This card is currently unavailable.
Sorry, ask your card manufacturer. Can be output.

As described above, by performing the control as in the present embodiment, it is possible to save labor such as installation work when using the devices connected to the system. In addition, it is expected that a highly scalable device such as the above-mentioned card device will often evolve in function due to functional enhancement or the like. However, when supplying a user with a printer device to which a card device as described above can be attached, for example, all such functional evolutions are anticipated, and complete control compatibility with any card device that will appear in the future. Was difficult to have. The present embodiment solves such a conventional problem,
It is possible to respond flexibly, and in this case, it is possible to use a card device with improved functions without the user having to perform an update operation.

In other words, when the card device function is enhanced, if the control program information of the enhanced control compatible card control unit is provided together with the card device itself, the present invention allows the user to simply use the card device. Simply by inserting the device into the printer (no version upgrade work, etc.), it is possible to use a card device that has been upgraded.

(Embodiment 15) Next, an example of a print control program applicable to the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to flowcharts. The processing 18-1 in FIG. 28A is one of the control programs of the host device. This control program is loaded from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device to the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary. Alternatively, the control is stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read and execute the data as needed and perform the intended control.

The present control program starts the execution of the present process in response to a print instruction or the like by a predetermined operation while the application program is being executed. Further, the application program can arbitrarily designate the character / image data to be printed, the setting of selection items in the printing operation menu in steps S301 and S302 described later, and the initial values thereof. Here, when image data and operation menu setting items are received from the application program and printing is started and instructed by a predetermined operation, control is performed until print mode parameter generation and enlargement / reduction of image data according to the operation selection. (1) a control program unit (steps S300 to S307); a second control program unit (step S308) that performs print image generation processing in accordance with image data and print mode parameters passed from the first control program unit and causes the printer to perform print control.
~ S313).

First, in step S300, the connection of the printer for printing and outputting is confirmed (similar to the process 20 described later). In step S301, a print operation menu or the like is displayed on a display or the like in accordance with an instruction from an application program.
In step S302, if there is a necessary selection item in the print operation menu, a selection operation is performed. When the print start is instructed, if the application selects a paper selection in step S303, the process proceeds to step S306.
Then, the optimum print mode setting parameters are determined according to the data type of the image information and the specified paper type, and the image data and the print mode setting information are passed to the second control program unit starting from step S308.

On the other hand, if the setting is arbitrary by the user in step S303, it is checked in step S305 whether there is any inconsistency in the selected item. Is not correct. "And return to S302 again. On the other hand, if there is no inconsistency in the selection items in S305, the print mode setting parameters according to the selection items specified in step S307 are determined, and the image data and the print mode setting information are passed to the second control program unit starting from step S308. . In step S308, the second control program unit performs color processing suitable for the image information (RGB multi-value) and print mode information passed from the first control program unit. The information is converted into binary information of CMY (K) suitable for the printing apparatus by a diffusion method or the like. In step S310, print control information corresponding to the connected printer is generated from the binary information of CMY (K), and step S311 Is transmitted to the printer device, and steps S309 to S312 are repeated until the printing operation is completed in step S312.When the printing operation is completed, in step S313, a printing completion process is performed as necessary, for example, a printing completion message is displayed on a display. This processing is performed after outputting for a predetermined time, and the processing is terminated.
It is needless to say that the present embodiment is applicable even when the printer having the above-described system configuration does not have a function related to the card device.

(Embodiment 16) Next, an example of an application program applicable to the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to flowcharts.

The process 18-2 in FIG. 28B is one of the application programs that can be executed by the host device. This control program is executed by, for example, the system control unit (SC) when necessary from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device.
The target control can be performed by being loaded into the RAM of T) or stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and being read out and executed by the CPU at an appropriate time as needed.

The present program executes the reading process from the RDV to the RAM by a predetermined operation, for example, when a storage medium storing the application program is stored in the RDV, or by a selection instruction operation on a predetermined operation screen. Start.

First, when this application program is started, an operation screen of a GUI (graphical user interface) operation environment as shown in FIG. 29 is displayed on the DISP 140. Buttons B1 to B8 of a GUI (graphical user interface) operating environment provided on the left side of FIG. 29 correspond to the basic functions shown in the column of arrow M1 shown at the bottom of FIG. 28B, and the button B1 is a document. function,
Button B2 is pasting function, button B3 is sender function, button
B4 is the save function, button B5 is the print function, button B6 is the address book function, button B7 is the Internet function, and
Button B8 represents the end function.

When the application is started, it waits for an operation input, selects a button using the cursor keys / various buttons on the operation panel (CP130) or the wireless operation panel (WCP440), or enters a keyboard input device (KB310) and a wireless keyboard input. Button selection and character input using the cursor key / character input key of the device (WKB410), and input position indication and button selection by operating a pointing device (PDV320) and wireless pointing device (WPDV420) ing.

Each function of the buttons B1 to B8 is shown in FIG.
It has detailed functions like the column indicated by the lower arrow M2,
The functions are described below in detail. First, the document function of the button B1 has a document creation / edit / save function, and an arbitrary document can be created, edited, and saved.

Next, the paste function of the button B2 is a function of pasting a document, characters, documents, images, and characters stored on a CD-ROM (compact disk ROM: RDV read-only storage medium).
Paste objects such as voice, paste objects such as characters, documents, images, voice, etc. stored in the memory of the card device or on the external memory (EMM180),
It is possible to paste an image object of a connected digital camera, paste an image object from a connected video camera, paste an image object output from TV, paste a voice object of a connected digital audio device, and the like.

[0319] In addition, the pasting position, pasting object size (enlargement / reduction), rotation / reversal pasting, and the order (layer) of pasting objects can be freely changed by input operation when pasting a document / character / image. The audio object is not directly related to the print output, but for example, it reproduces the sound attached when printing the created one in this way, or transmits and receives as a mail on the Internet or the like. It is also possible to reproduce the sound pasted when the user opens the mail. The above-mentioned object pasting information has the contents as shown in FIG. 31 and is referred to as pasting management information.

For example, if the objects P1, P2, T1, P3, and T2 are pasted as shown in the right part of FIG. 29, the respective objects pasted as shown in FIG.
Object name (object file name, object source), object type (representing data format), object pasting position (XY coordinates), enlargement / reduction information (%), rotation (rotation angle) / reversal information (left / right / Upper and lower) and layer information (larger numbers mean the front side).

Next, the sender function of the button B3 is provided with sender information creation / editing / storing functions, and can be used as sender information at the time of printing a letter or sending a mail via the Internet.

Next, the save function of the button B4 has a function of saving all / only the format, and the function of saving only the format does not include the pasted object, as shown in FIG. Only the pasting management information is stored. On the other hand, save all is a function of saving including the pasted object.

The storage destination can be arbitrarily designated anywhere and any desired data can be recorded as long as there is a non-volatile storage means readable and writable by a device connected to the system. For example, card devices, extended memory (EM
M), cellular phones (CPH), digital cameras, etc.
It is also possible for devices connected on the Internet / network. Note that the storage function provided in the detailed functions of the other functions can be stored in an arbitrary location in the same manner.

Next, the print function of the button B5 has a print / address print / setting function, and prints the currently opened one, prints the address of the postcard with reference to the address book, and performs printing. Is an option setting.

Next, the address book function of the button B6 has a create / edit / save function, and can create / edit / save any destination information.

Next, the Internet function of the button B7 can be used to create / receive / send mail and browse (blur) a home page on the Internet.

[0327] Finally, the end of the button 8 is a function to end the application. Next, processing 1 in FIG.
Reference numeral 9 denotes one of application library programs that can be executed by the host device. This control program is loaded from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device to the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary. Alternatively, the control is stored in advance in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read and execute the data as needed and perform the intended control.

This program is a process executed when character input is required for each function of the application.
First, in step S320, a keyboard input device (KB310) or a wireless keyboard input device (WKB410) is installed on the system.
Is connected, and if any keyboard input device is connected, character input from that keyboard device is obtained in step S321.

At this time, an operation guide message such as "Please input characters from keyboard" is output on the operation screen. On the other hand, if no keyboard input device is connected at step S320,
In S322, it is determined whether or not the cellular phone (CPH430) is connected. If it is connected, in step S323, a character input operation by a 10-key operation or a 10-key operation, which is a standard function of the cellular phone (CPH430), is performed. Get character input. Also, at that time, an operation guide message such as "Please enter characters from a mobile phone." Is output on the operation screen, and a message such as "Character is being input" is displayed on a cellular phone LED or the like. It is also possible. On the other hand, in step S322, cellular phones (C
If the PH430 is not connected, at step S324 at least conventional character input means (for example, 51 characters of hiragana, 52 characters of alphabet (upper / lower case), numbers, symbols, etc. are input to DISP140 which is a display output device of the host device). The operation panel (CP13) is switched and displayed by the selection operation using the cursor key / button operation on the operation panel (CP130).
0) A character input function is provided by means of a character input means that repeats an operation such as a character selection confirmation operation by operating the upper cursor key / button.

Next, an example of the operation will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

For example, the operation screen shown in FIG. 30 shows a state in which the button B2, that is, the pasting function is selected, and the button is displayed in a submenu pop-up on the screen.
B9 to B15 are provided, each button is a detailed function of the paste function, that is, button B9 is a document paste, button
B10 is a CD-ROM (compact disk ROM: RDV read-only storage medium) that stores characters, documents, images,
Paste objects such as voice, button B11 pastes objects such as characters, documents, images, and voices stored in the memory of the card device or external memory (EMM180), button B12 is connected digital camera Paste image object, button B13 paste image object from connected video camera, button B14
Pastes the image object output to the TV, and button B15 corresponds to paste the audio object of the connected digital audio device.

In the figure, the meaning of the hatched buttons B13 to B15 indicates that the corresponding device cannot be used.

That is, this example shows a state in which a video camera, a TV having an image capture output function, and a digital audio device are not connected or cannot be used. Also, the function button B1 that cannot be used in this example
The state where 3 is selected is explained, and at that time, an operation guide such as "Please connect a video camera" is displayed on the MS1 part.

Next, the processing 20 in FIG. 33 is one of the application library programs that can be executed by the host device. This control program is executed by, for example, the system control when necessary from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device. Part (SCT) loaded in RAM or ROM in advance
The target control can be performed by the CPU reading out and executing it as needed when necessary.

This program is a process executed when a button and menu selection operation on the GUI is required for each function of the application. This processing is started when a function selection button, menu item, or the like on the operation screen is selected by operating a cursor key of an operation panel, a keyboard, or the like, or operating a pointing device. First, it is determined whether the button or menu item selected in step S340 relates to an externally connected device, and when the selected function does not depend on the externally connected device, or when a device required by the selected function is available. In step S347, the user can use the button or menu item selected in step S347, and causes the selection function to be executed in step S348.

On the other hand, if the device required by the function selected in step S340 is not available, step S3
At 41, an operation guide message is output. For example, as in the example of the operation screen in FIG. 30 described above, when the button B13 is selected and the video camera is not connected, an operation guide such as “Please connect a video camera” is displayed on the MS1 part. indicate. Next, it is checked in step S342 whether the target device is connected, and it is checked in step S343 whether the selection operation has been changed. If it has been changed, the operation guide displayed in step S341 is hidden in step S344, and the relationship between the function selected this time and the connected device is checked in step S340.

On the other hand, if the selection operation has not been changed in step S343, the device connection status checked in step S342 is checked in step S345. If the desired target device has not been connected yet, step S342 Return to check if the target device is connected again. Eventually, when the target device is connected, the operation guide displayed in step S341 is hidden in step S346, and the button or menu item selected in step S347 can be used,
In step S348, the selection function is executed.

Next, the process 21 in FIG. 34 is one of the application library programs that can be executed by the host device. This control program is executed by, for example, the system control when necessary from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device. Part (SCT) loaded in RAM or ROM in advance
The target control can be performed by the CPU reading out and executing it as needed when necessary.
This program is a process executed when a button and menu selection operation on the GUI is required for each function of the application. When a function selection button, a menu item, or the like on the operation screen is selected by operating a cursor key of an operation panel or a keyboard, or operating a pointing device, the above-described process 20 of FIG. 33 is performed. To start. First, it is determined whether the data type expected by the button or menu item exists on the connected device selected in step S360, and if it exists, the button or menu item selected in step S367 is enabled to be used, In step S368, the selection function is executed.

On the other hand, if the data type required by the function selected in step S360 does not exist, step S3
At 61, an operation guide message is output. For example, when the image data does not exist on the card device when the button B11 is selected and operated on the operation screen of FIG.
An operation guide such as "There is no image data on the card." Next, it is checked in step S362 whether the target connected device exists and the target data type exists, and it is checked in step S363 whether the selection operation has been changed. If it has been changed, the operation guide displayed in step S361 is hidden in step S364, and in step S360, the relationship between the function selected this time and the data type on the connected device is checked. On the other hand, if the selection operation has not been changed in step S363, in step S365 step S3
The presence or absence of the data type checked in 62 is checked, and if the desired data type does not yet exist, the process returns to step S362 to check again whether the target data type exists.
Eventually, when the existence of the target data type is confirmed, the operation guide displayed in step S361 is hidden in step S366, and the button or menu item selected in step S367 can be used, and in step S368 Execute the selection function.

As described above, by providing the system configuration of the present invention with the application program as described in the present embodiment, the installation work of the application program and the device driver is unnecessary, and the operability is improved. It is possible to provide an image processing system for home use.

(Embodiment 17) Next, an example of a utility program applicable to the configuration of the above-described embodiment will be described in detail with reference to flowcharts and the like. The process 22 in FIG. 35 is one of the utility programs that can be executed by the host device. The control program is, for example, a read-only storage device (RD) of the host device.
V) is loaded into the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary, or is stored in advance in ROM or the like.
The intended control can be performed by the PU reading out and executing as needed when necessary.

This program is an automatic application start management control program that starts executing when a device is connected to the system. When it recognizes that a device is connected to the system, it executes this processing. First, in step S380, file information and the like of the connected device are read, and if there are a plurality of data types, the process proceeds to step S381, and the process proceeds to, for example, an application selection operation without automatically starting the application. On the other hand, if the data type is one type in step S381, step S38
In step 2, the auto-start management information set in advance is checked, and if there is only one auto-start application setting, the application is automatically started according to the auto-start management information in step S384. On the other hand, if there are two or more auto-start applications in step S382, step S383
Displays an operation screen for selecting which application to be started automatically set in step S384, waits for a selection instruction from the user, and when an application is selected, starts the application selected in step S384 I do. The automatic start management information can be set and changed by the user, and the setting contents are stored and stored in a nonvolatile memory.

Next, step 23 in FIG. 36 is a flowchart for explaining the utility program of the host device and the auxiliary utility program of the printer device. Note that the control program of the host device can be loaded from the read-only storage device (RDV) of the host device to the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary,
Alternatively, it is stored in a ROM or the like in advance, and the intended control can be performed by the CPU reading out and executing it as needed when necessary. This control program on the printer device side is one of the control programs for the printer device, and the program is stored in the ROM 13 of the printer control unit 10 in the printer device, and is read and executed by the CPU as needed as needed. The desired control can be performed. This control program is a utility program that allows the host device to copy the memory contents on the card device 200 to another card device using the printer device.

The execution of this processing is started by a predetermined operation instruction. First, in step S400, the host device acquires the file information of the card device of the copy source, determines whether the copy target file is copy-prohibited, and in the case of copy prohibition, in step S401, "this information is An error message such as "Copy prohibited" is output. here,
The copy prohibition information is, for example, a control program / data, paid information or free information protected by copyright.

On the other hand, if the copy is not prohibited in step S400, the format information or serial number of the current card device (copy source) is stored as copy source information, and the message “Please replace the card with the copy destination card” is displayed on the screen. ., Etc., and waits for replacement of the card device. When the card device is replaced, it is checked in step S402 whether there is free space in the copy destination card device. If there is not enough free space, step S403 is performed. To output an error message on the screen, such as "Not enough free space on destination card."

On the other hand, if the free space is sufficient in step S402, the format information or the serial number of the card device (copy destination) is stored as copy destination information in step S404, and the message “Replace with the copy source card” is displayed on the screen. Please wait for the exchange with the card device of the copy source, that is, wait for the replacement with the same card device as the copy source information. When the card device of the copy source is recognized, a message such as "Copying is in progress, please do not remove the card." Is output on the screen, and the maximum amount of memory available for copying is inquired to the printer device. Using the maximum available memory, a request is made to the printer device to read the file from the card device, together with the copy target file information that can be read at once. Next, in step S405, the printer reads out the designated information from the card device in accordance with the request from the host device, and reads out the RAM in the printer.
And temporarily notifies the host device that the reading has been completed.

[0347] In response to this, the host device proceeds to step S406.
On the screen with "Please replace with the copy destination card."
Message is output, and the replacement of the card device is awaited. If the card device is replaced correctly, a message such as "Copying, do not remove the card." Is displayed on the screen and read out to the printer. To write the information on the card device. In response to this, the printer writes all the information read in step S405 to the card device, and when the writing is completed, notifies the host device of the fact. Then, in step S407, the host device checks whether all the files to be copied have been copied, and if there are any remaining files, the process returns to S404. Then, steps S404 to S4
07 is repeated, and when all the files to be copied have been copied in step S407, an output such as "copying to the card has been correctly completed."
After waiting for a predetermined operation, the process is terminated. As described above, by using the storage means such as the RAM provided in the printer device to perform copying between card devices, information to be actually copied is sent from the card device to the host device, and the host device is used to copy information. Since it is not necessary to write data in the file, it is possible to shorten the copying time.

Next, the process 24 in FIG. 37 is a flowchart for explaining the utility program of the host device. The control program may be loaded from the read only storage device (RDV) of the host device to the RAM of the system control unit (SCT) when necessary, or may be stored in advance.
It is stored in a ROM or the like, and the CPU can read and execute it as needed to perform the intended control.

This control program is a utility program that allows the host device to copy information from any device to any device between devices connected to the system.
It is a program.

The execution of this processing is started by a predetermined operation instruction. First, in step S420, the host device obtains the file information of the copy source device, determines whether the copy target file is copy-prohibited, and in the case of copy prohibition, in step S421, "this information is copied. It is prohibited. "

Here, the copy prohibition information is, for example,
Control programs / data, paid information or free information, and information related to copyright protection. On the other hand, if the copy is not prohibited in step S420, a message such as "Please select the copy destination device" is output on the screen, and the process waits until the copy destination device is selected. In S422, the copy destination device is checked for free space, and if there is not enough free space, step S4
At step 23, an error message such as "insufficient free space on the copy destination device" is output on the screen. On the other hand, if there is enough free space in step S422, a message such as "Please wait while copying" is displayed on the screen, and step
In S424, the file to be copied is read from the copy source device, the read file is written in the copy destination device in step S425, it is checked whether all the copy target files have been copied in step S426, and if there is any remaining, the process returns to S424 again.

Then, steps S424 to S426 are repeated,
When all the files to be copied have been copied in step S426, an output such as "copying has been completed successfully" is output on the screen in step S478, and after waiting for a predetermined operation, this processing ends.

It is to be noted that the copy source device can be arbitrarily designated anywhere and read out desired data as long as the device is a storage device connected to the system. For example, card devices, extended memory (EM
M), cellular phones (CPH), digital cameras, etc.
It is also possible for devices connected on the Internet / network. Also, as long as the copy destination device has a non-volatile storage means that can be read and written by a device connected to the system, desired data can be arbitrarily designated anywhere and desired data can be recorded. For example, as a copy destination device, a card device, an extended memory (EMM), a cellular phone (CPH), a digital camera, or the like, or a device connected to the Internet / network can be used.

According to the present embodiment as described above,
It is also possible to smoothly transfer information between devices connected to the system, and it is also possible to easily perform data organizing work such as, for example, a user collecting desired file information in one device. .

[0355]

According to the present invention as described above, any of the following effects can be obtained.

(1) Devices having an operation panel (hereinafter, referred to as UI) connected to the system configuration by the interface means each have UI resource information, and devices connected to the system are mutually connected. A control unit that can use UI resources of another device is provided. Further, the devices connected to the system are:
Each device connected to the system has status information, and the devices connected to the system are equipped with control means that can mutually acquire the status of other devices. There is an effect that the operability is excellent without particularly adding a vessel or the like.

(2) The printer device having the above system configuration has detection means for detecting whether communication with the host device is possible or not.
When the communication control unit receives a transmission request from the card control unit to the host device when communication with the host device is impossible,
The request is not transmitted to the host device, but is stored as error history information in a storage unit inside the printer or a storage unit inside the card control unit, and when communication with the host device becomes possible later, the printer device sends the error history information to the host device. Power is supplied to at least the printer device by providing communication means for notifying the presence of error history information in the device and communication means for returning error history information to the host device in response to a request from the host device. In the state, `` If the host device makes a request for the card device to the printer device when communication with the card device is not possible, at least an operation error using a display / buzzer etc. provided in the printer device And a display device provided in the printer when communication with the host device is not possible. / Use a buzzer or the like to notify the user of at least an operation error "and" When communication with the host device is not possible,
A request to the host device caused by a user operation is stored in the printer as an error history, and when the host device and the printer can later communicate, the host reads the error history from the printer. It is possible to provide an operating environment that analyzes the contents and order of erroneous operations and guides the operation using characters, pictures, sounds, etc. on the screen. However, there is an effect that the operability can be improved by means for notifying the procedure for solving the problem easily and easily.

(3) The printer device having the above system configuration has a power saving function. In order for the card control unit to request the host device for the printing system, the card control unit requests the communication control unit for the printing system. Is transmitted, when the printer device is in the power saving mode, the initial operation of the mechanical mechanism provided in the printer device is started, and then the printer device prepares for a print request from the host device and transmits a non-print request. By providing a control means for transmitting a request to the host device without starting the initial operation when the printing operation is performed, it is possible to cause the printer device to perform the initial operation even in the power saving mode when printing is not necessary. This has the effect of reducing the power consumed by the printer device.

(4) The card control unit having the above system configuration includes a control unit capable of acquiring capability information of the printer,
The card control unit has means for determining whether the target print output can be performed by the printer device alone based on the capability information, and when it is determined that the print output can be performed alone, without requesting the host device,
By providing output control means for printing by the printer device alone, character printing etc. can be printed out without the intervention of the host device, and when the host device uses functions other than the printing function, There is an effect that desired character printing (simple printing) can be performed without terminating the function.

(5) The host device having the above system configuration
It has detection means for recognizing the presence / absence and type of the device connected by the interface communication means, and means for searching and reading out a control program such as an optimal device driver and library according to the detection output. CD-ROM / ROM / readable from connected device
In a configuration in which the control program is stored in advance on a storage medium such as an external memory, a storage device on a printer device and a card device, and a storage device of a device on the Internet / network connected to an external interface. The host device searches for the most suitable control program according to at least the printer device and the card device connected to the application.
By providing control means for using the connected device by reading and executing, a desired device can be connected when necessary by a user's intended function, and a recording medium such as a CD-ROM in which an application or the like is stored can be used. By simply inserting the device into the device, there is an effect that the intended function can be immediately used without performing a troublesome operation such as installation as in the related art.

(6) The card device having the system configuration described above includes a means for outputting version information, a storage means for storing, as necessary, an optimal control program / data upgraded in the card device, and a control program for the control program. The card control unit has presence / absence information output means, the card control unit has a detection means for detecting the attachment / detachment of the card device, and a version of the card device capable of supporting a control program / data stored in the card control unit or the printer device. Reading means for acquiring information, at least three pieces of information from the card device, and judging means for comparing compatibility based on the version information of the card device and the version information that can be supported when the card control unit detects the attachment of the card device. Optimal control upgraded to a card device If the program / data exists, the card control unit reads the control program / data from the card device.If the optimal control program / data upgraded to the card device does not exist, the card control unit reads the control program / data. The host device gives a control program suitable for the card device to the printer device, and updates the control to a control suitable for the card device,
Uses a card device that has been upgraded by replacing the control program / data stored in the card control unit or the printer device with a part or all of the control program. In this case, there is an effect that the desired target function whose function has been improved can be used immediately without performing troublesome operations such as version upgrade operation and installation by the user.

(7) In the above system configuration, the host device includes means for detecting at least the type of the connected printer device, and a print control program / data or the like optimal for the connected printer device according to the detection result. Read-out selection means, the print control program / data is stored in the storage medium in advance, and when print is instructed, the selection means reads out the optimum print control program / data from the storage medium and executes the print control program The printer is equipped with control means for printing out desired characters and images, so that even when printing, printing can be performed immediately by simply connecting the printer and instructing printing from the application, without performing cumbersome work such as installation. It has the effect of being output. The same effect can be obtained when the printer having the above system configuration does not have a function related to the card device.

(8) In the above system configuration, a first control program for causing a user to perform a desired image printing operation by an operation instruction / selection operation by an application program or the like running on the host device, and a first control program. A second control program for generating print control data to be printed by the printer device in accordance with the requested contents, wherein input information from the first control program to the second control program includes at least image information and print output speed / quality. The first control program has a parameter with the print mode information to be specified and does not include at least the selection item of the print paper medium type in the selection operation, and the first control program is the type of the image data to be printed or the print paper medium according to the instruction from the application program. Automatically according to the type and other selected selection information Print mode information generated
By providing image information to a second control program and providing control means for outputting an image print to a printer device based on print control data generated by the second control program, specifying a sheet to be used for printing by an application function Is possible, and when the printing paper that can be printed from the application function is limited, there is an effect that the printout can be performed without performing the selection setting operation such as the paper setting and the printing mode at the time of the printing operation.

(9) In the above system configuration, the characters stored and held by each device connected to the system,
Information such as images and sounds can be read arbitrarily, and information obtained through control programs such as plug-ins / applets and application libraries can be input from the user through screen output means and operation input means as required. Generate and save composite image data by combining each image data and character data, etc.
Control means based on an application program for causing a device having a readable (rewritable) storage device to be stored at an arbitrary location in accordance with a user's instruction), displaying it on a screen, or printing it out on a printer device Is provided, it is possible to provide an image processing system that can easily use functions such as printing even in a living room at home.

(10) In the above system configuration, as the header information of the application programs running on the host device, management information on the type of the connection device to be used by each application program and the available data type is stored. In addition, the host device includes a detecting unit for detecting the availability / impossibility of each device connected to the system, an output of the detecting unit, management information of a type of the connected device to be used by the application program, and the like. And a suppression control unit for prohibiting the start of the target application program when it is determined that none of the devices to be used is unavailable. One or more available data types exist for available devices When the decision is made, to launch the application program of interest, application
Inhibiting the activation of a function that targets an unusable connection device among the functions in the program, and prohibiting the activation of a function that targets a connection device that has no usable data type (in the available connection device) The control means is provided. Furthermore,
The icons and menus on the screen for selecting the corresponding application program are displayed and output in the selection prohibited state, and at least available when the user selects and instructs the icons and menus displayed in the selection prohibited state It outputs an operation guide such as a warning and an operation procedure such as a disconnection of an important device in characters, images, sounds, or the like. During the selection state, the available devices are connected by the user according to the operation guide, etc., and when the usable state of the device is determined by the state detection means of the connected device, the operation guide and the like are deleted, and the icons and menus are deleted. Etc. to a selectable state, and a control means for starting an application program desired by the user is provided, so that it is only necessary to operate the application function according to the desired function required by the user. When there is no necessary connected device, there is an effect that it is possible to provide a device with excellent operability that allows the user to easily understand the operation.

(11) In the above system configuration, the host device detects the type of information that can be obtained from the card device, and the host device determines whether the information that can be obtained from the card device is one type. Control means for activating an application program set in advance, and when a plurality of application programs preset for each type of information are set, a selection screen of those application programs is displayed. And control means for selecting and starting a desired application program, operating means for creating, editing, and storing information preset for each type of information, and each operating means connected to the system. For devices that have storage means that can store and read out user information (rewritable) Storage control means for storing information preset for each type of information in an arbitrary location of the storage means in response to a user's instruction. Since the application function can be used, there is an effect that the operation for starting the application can be omitted and the operation can be simplified.

(12) In the above system configuration, the host device transmits a predetermined request to the printer device, so that the printer device reads information from the card device using the storage means inside the printer device. By providing the function of copying the memory information on the card device by writing, the effect of increasing the speed of the copying operation when copying the information of the card device to another card device is provided.

(13) In the above system configuration, the host device can be connected to any device from any location of the device having storage means capable of reading information / control programs held by each device connected to the system. Information can be read out and stored in an arbitrary place of a device having (rewritable) storage means capable of storing and reading out the information and control program in each device connected to the system, or the control program. With the storage control means for rewriting the information, it is possible to easily exchange information between connected devices,
This has the effect that the user can easily organize information.

As described above, the image processing system of the present invention provides a system environment in which any user can use many multimedia functions in a living room, and is inexpensive, highly functional, and convenient. There is an effect that a high printing system device for home use can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a card control unit.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration according to a sixth embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a communication path according to a seventh embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating communication information according to an eighth embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of communication control according to an eighth embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating communication information according to a ninth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of communication control according to a ninth embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a control block diagram illustrating a communication control program according to a tenth embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 2) of a control program of a card control unit according to the eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 3) of a control program of a card control unit according to the eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 4) of a control program for a host device according to the eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example (processing 5) of a control program for a host device according to the eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 6) of a control program for a host device according to the eleventh embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 7) of a control program for a printer according to the twelfth embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 8) of a control program for a printer device according to the twelfth embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 9) of a control program of a card control unit according to the twelfth embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 10) of a control program for a host device according to the twelfth embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 11) of a control program for a printer according to the thirteenth embodiment.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 12) of a control program of a card control unit according to the thirteenth embodiment.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 13) of a control program for a printer according to the thirteenth embodiment.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating an example (processes 14 and 15) of a control program of the host device according to the fourteenth embodiment.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 16) of a control program for a host device according to the fourteenth embodiment.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 17) of a control program of a card control unit according to the fourteenth embodiment.

FIG. 28A is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 18-1) of the control program of the host device in the fifteenth embodiment.

FIG. 28B is a flowchart for explaining an example (process 18-2) of the control program of the host device in the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 29 illustrates an operation screen (1) of the host device in the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 30 illustrates an operation screen (2) of the host device in the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 31 is a table illustrating management information of a host device according to the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 19) of a control program for a host device according to the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 33 is a flowchart illustrating an example (process 20) of a control program of a host device in the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart for explaining an example (process 21) of the control program of the host device in the sixteenth embodiment.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart for explaining an example (process 22) of the control program of the host device in the seventeenth embodiment.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart for explaining an example (process 23) of the control program of the host device in the seventeenth embodiment.

FIG. 37 is a flowchart for explaining an example (process 24) of the control program of the host device in the seventeenth embodiment.

FIG. 38 is a configuration diagram for explaining Conventional Example 1.

FIG. 39 is a configuration diagram illustrating a second conventional example.

FIG. 40 is a configuration diagram illustrating a third conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Printer apparatus 10 Printer control part 11 Printer control circuit (PCT) 12 RAM for printer control part 13 ROM for printer control part 20 Printer unit (PU) 30 Card device control part (CCT) 31 Card control circuit (CCNT) 32 card Control unit RAM 33 Card control unit ROM 40 Card control circuit (CCNT) of the third and fourth embodiments 50 Power supply of the first and second embodiments 55 Power supply of the third and fourth embodiments 100 Host device 110 system -Main control unit 111 System control unit (SCT) 112 Real-time clock (RTC) 120 Read-only storage device (RDV) 130 Operation panel (CP) 140 Image input / output device (DISP) and audio input / output device (AUD) 150 Expansion unit (PCD) 170 External connection device (EDV) 180 External memory (EMM) 200 Card device (CDV) 210 Card device communication control unit (WCT) 300 Optional devices 310 Keyboard input device (KB) 320 Pointing device (PDV) 400 External communication devices 410 Wireless keyboard input device (WKB) 420 Wireless pointing device (WKB) WPDV) 430 Cellular phone (CPH) 440 Wireless operation panel (WCP)

Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification symbol FI Theme coat II (reference) G06K 19/00 G06K 19/00 TF term (reference) 5B014 FA06 GD37 HC05 HC08 5B035 BB09 BC03 CA11 5B065 BA09 CA11 ZA05 5B076 AA03 AA05 AB17 5C062 AA05 AA14 AA29 AA31 AB10 AB13 AB38 AB42 AC22 AC51 AC58 AD05 AE15 BA00

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. An image processing system configured by connecting a host device that reads and executes program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function, wherein the device is connected to the system. A communication control unit for controlling communication between the host device and the device, a card interface connected to a card device, and a card control unit controlling a card device detachably connectable to the card interface. Communication means for mutually sharing device information between the host device and the card device via the card control means and communication control means; and information shared by the communication means, Control means for enabling other devices connected via a device to use the device, A host device comprising: recognition means for recognizing a device connected by the communication control means; and driver detection means for automatically detecting optimum driver software for the device recognized by the recognition means, wherein the card control means The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the compatibility of the detected driver software with the card device is determined, and the control program of the card device is automatically updated. 2. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the driver software is stored in advance in one of a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, and an external memory connected to the host device. 3. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the driver software is stored in a storage unit of a device connected on a network in advance. 4. The card control means, when judging that the detected driver software and the control program of the card device are incompatible, requests the host device to change the driver software. 2. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the host device detects and changes the optimum driver software suitable for the card device based on the request. 5. An image data processing method for exchanging information between a host device for reading and executing program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function and processing the data. A communication control step for controlling communication between the host device and a device; a step of connecting to a card device via a card interface; and a card device detachably connectable to the card interface. A card control step of controlling; a communication step for mutually sharing device information between the host device and the card device via the processing of the card control step and the communication control step; and a processing of the communication step To make the information shared by other devices available via the card device A control step, a recognition step of recognizing the device connected by the processing of the communication control step, and a driver detection step of automatically detecting an optimal driver software for the device recognized by the processing of the recognition step, The image data processing method according to claim 1, wherein the card control process automatically updates a control program of the card device by determining compatibility between the detected driver software and the card device. 6. The processing in the card control step, when determining that the detected driver software and the control program of the card device are incompatible, requests the host device to change the driver software. 6. The image data processing method according to claim 5, wherein, based on the request, the host device detects and changes an optimum driver software suitable for the card device. 7. An image data processing method for exchanging information between a host device for reading and executing program data stored in a read-only storage medium and a device having a card device function and processing the data. A computer-readable storage medium storing a program code to be executed by a computer, the program code comprising: a code of a communication control step for controlling communication between the host device and a device; and a card interface. A code for a process of connecting to a card device via a card, a code for a card control process for controlling a card device detachably connectable to the card interface, a code for the card control process, and a process for a code for the communication control process. Device information between the host device and the card device via And a code for a control step for making the information shared by the processing of the code for the communication step available to other devices connected via the card device. And a recognition step of recognizing a device connected by the processing of the communication control step; and a code of a driver detection step of automatically detecting driver software optimal for the device recognized by the processing of the code of the recognition step. The code processing in the card control step judges the compatibility between the detected driver software and the card device, and automatically updates a control program of the card device. Data processing method. A storage medium comprising: 8. The processing of the code in the card control step is as follows:
If it is determined that the detected driver software and the control program of the card device are not compatible, the host device requests the host device to change the driver software. 8. The storage medium according to claim 7, wherein a suitable optimum driver software is detected and changed.