JP2002123379A - System and method for processing job with peripheral equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a user to designate a starting mode even through a driver software for controlling peripheral equipment does not recognize the starting mode, which can be set by the peripheral equipment (a timing for starting job processing and the starting condition of it) on installation. SOLUTION: The driver software requests the list of attribute values, which can be set to the starting mode, to the peripheral equipment, displays the attribute values included in the list to a user and sets an attribute value designated in the list as the attribute of the job.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a peripheral device including a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile device, or a device capable of processing the functions of these devices in a complex manner, and to communicate with the peripheral device via a network. The present invention relates to a simple information processing apparatus, a data processing method, and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in peripheral devices such as a printer,
A mode in which job processing is started when a start instruction is given after a job is submitted to a peripheral device, or a job when a start instruction with a password is given separately after a job is submitted to a peripheral device The start mode of the job is controlled by designating the mode in which the process is started, and the confidentiality of the output result is maintained.

[0003] For example, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H5-221089, after a password (password) is transmitted together with print data from a host, an appropriate number is input by a user from a panel section, and the input number and the password are transmitted. Has been proposed to start printing only when と matches, thereby performing confidential printing.

[0004]

However, the job with the password can be transmitted only by the driver software (software for controlling peripheral devices) installed in the information processing apparatus (host computer). ) Is compatible with a peripheral device capable of processing a job with a password, and recognizes in advance that an instruction to process the job with a password can be specified for the peripheral device. Because he was.

Therefore, driver software that does not have information on a peripheral device capable of processing a job with an encryption number, when transmitting a job to the peripheral device, determines whether or not the peripheral device has a confidential printing function. Could not be presented to the user.

Therefore, according to the present invention, the driver software installed in the information processing apparatus determines what kind of start mode (various patterns in which processing of a job is started) is performed by a peripheral device which is to submit a job. Even if the user does not know in advance whether or not the peripheral device has a start mode, the peripheral device can cause the user of the information processing apparatus to recognize a start mode that can be executed by the peripheral device. An object is to enable a desired start mode to be selected from the modes.

Further, a start mode selected by the user, for example, a mode in which job processing is started after a start instruction is issued (start instruction wait mode) or a mode in which job processing is started after a password is input (password mode) A start instruction waiting mode) can be designated from the information processing apparatus to the peripheral device by a control command, and the start timing for outputting the job and the start condition for outputting the job can be freely controlled according to the needs of the user. The purpose is to:

[0008]

In order to solve the above problems, a system according to the present invention is a system for processing a job generated by an information processing apparatus by a peripheral device, wherein the peripheral device processes the job. Request means for requesting information indicating a condition that can be specified in the job from the information processing device to the peripheral device, and a condition that can be specified as the start condition in response to a request from the information processing device. Transmitting means for transmitting information from the peripheral device to the information processing apparatus; display control means for displaying a condition that can be specified as the start condition on a display unit of the information processing apparatus; and a condition selected from the conditions displayed on the display unit. Command transmission means for transmitting a command designating the specified condition from the information processing device to the peripheral device.

In this system, the condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that a job process is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. It is characterized by.

In this system, the condition that can be specified as the start condition is that if the input password is correct according to the input of the password from the information processing device or the input of the password from the operation unit, the job It is characterized in that a condition for starting processing is included.

In this system, the conditions that can be specified as the start conditions include a condition that processing of the job is started when the job is received, and a condition that the processing of the job is started at a specified absolute time. At least one of a condition and a condition that processing of a job is started after a designated relative time has elapsed is included.

In this system, the peripheral device is one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral.

[0013]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a peripheral device according to an embodiment of the present invention. A composite image processing for processing a job using an image input function, a print function, and a facsimile transmission / reception function. 1 shows a peripheral device having a function.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 1 denotes a controller for controlling peripheral devices, which will be described later in detail, and has hardware resources as shown in FIG. Reference numeral 2 denotes a communication interface for the controller 1 to communicate with the outside of the peripheral device. The communication interface 2 includes, for example, an Ethernet (registered trademark) interface, an IEEE 1284 interface, or another communication interface.

Reference numeral 3 denotes a scanner engine, which is controlled by the controller 1. Reference numeral 4 denotes a printer engine, which is controlled by the controller 1. . The printer engine 4 may be, for example, a laser beam printer, an inkjet printer, or another printer.

Reference numeral 5 denotes a facsimile board for realizing a facsimile function such as communication control at the time of transmitting / receiving an image. Reference numeral 6 denotes a user interface, which includes an LCD display and a keyboard. User interface 6
Displays information from the controller 1 and transmits instructions from the user to the controller 1.

In the peripheral device having the above configuration,
The print job is processed by the controller 1 selecting and controlling the printer engine 4. The copy job is processed by the controller 1 selecting and controlling the printer engine 4 and the scanner engine 3. Further, the controller 1 selects and controls the printer engine 4, the scanner engine 3, and the facsimile board 5, so that a facsimile reception job and a facsimile transmission job are processed.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining a detailed configuration of hardware resources in the controller 1 shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 2, the controller 1
U21, RAM 22, LCD 23, and keyboard 2
4, a ROM 25, a communication interface 26, a scanner engine 27, a printer engine 28, a facsimile board 29, and a DISK 30, which are interconnected via a system bus 20.
The program for controlling the controller 1 shown in FIG. 1 is stored in the ROM 25 or the disk 30 and is read out to the RAM 22 as necessary,
Performed by

The ROM 25 and the DISK 30 store, in addition to the control program, attribute information indicating functions and states of peripheral devices and jobs processed by the peripheral devices, job data to be output, and the like.

Further, the CPU 21 displays information through the LCD 23, and receives a user's instruction from the keyboard 24. The CPU 21 communicates with the outside through the communication interface 26.

In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, FIG.
In the peripheral devices, the CPU 21 receives a user's input from the keyboard 24 via the system bus 20, and
RAM 22, LCD 23, ROM 25, communication interface 26, scanner engine 27, printer engine 28, facsimile board 29, DISK
30 and is implemented.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a network system to which the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 can be applied.

In FIG. 3, an MFP (Multi Fu) is used.
nction Peripheral) 31, MFP3
6. The MFP 37 is the peripheral device shown in FIG. PC
(Personal computer) 32, PC33, PC34
Have hardware resources as shown in FIG.
It is connected to the MFP 31 via the network 35.
What is connected to the MFP 31 via the network 35 is
It may be a workstation, another peripheral device, or another device.

The driver software is executed by the PC 32 or the PC 33 or the PC 34,
The user can request the MFP 31 to process a job such as print, scan, copy, or facsimile transmission / reception via the MFP 31 or make an inquiry about attribute information of the MFP 31.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
34 shows a configuration example of a hardware resource in 34.

As shown in FIG. 4, P
C32 to C34 are a CPU 41, a RAM 42, a CRT
43, a keyboard 44, and a pointing device 4
5, a ROM 46, a DISK 47, and a communication interface 48, which are mutually connected via a system bus 49.

A program for controlling the PCs 32 to 34 is stored in the ROM 46 or the disk 47, and is loaded into the RAM 42 as needed, and
1 is performed. Also, the CPU 41 sets the CRT 43
, And receives a user's instruction from the keyboard 44 and the pointing device 45. Also, C
The PU 41 communicates with the outside through the communication interface 48.

In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, FIG.
CPU receives a user's input from a keyboard 44 or a pointing device 45 via a system bus 49, and stores a RAM 42 and a CRT 43
, The ROM 46, the disk 47, and the communication interface 48 to perform processing.

The user's instruction to the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 and the information display to the user may be performed through the local user interface 6 shown in FIG. 1, or the PC 32, PC 33, or PC 3 shown in FIG.
4 may be performed through a device serving as a client connected by a network 35 such as the one shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a job processed by the peripheral device shown in FIG.

In the present embodiment, a job processed by the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 includes a list 51 of attributes indicating the function and status of the job and job data 52 indicating data to be processed by the job. Is done.

In FIG. 5, job data 52 indicates data to be processed such as image data. The job data 52 may not be required depending on the type of the job.

The attribute list 51 includes an attribute name 53 and an attribute value 54. Attribute job identifier 53-1; job name 5
3-2, job type 53-3, password 53-4, paper selection 53-5, duplex printing 53-6, start mode 53-
7, attribute values 54-1 to 54-7 are set, respectively. That is, the attribute list 51 indicates the function and status of the job submitted by the driver software. In the present embodiment, an attribute identifier may be specified instead of the attribute name 53 which is a column of the attribute list 51. The attributes listed in the attribute list 51 are the same as the attributes listed in the “attribute list supported by the job” as shown in FIG.

The attribute name 53-1 indicates the identifier of the input job, and the attribute value 54-1 indicates that the "job identifier" is "1234". The attribute name 53-2 indicates the name of the input job, and the attribute value 54-2 indicates that the "job name" is "test print".

The attribute name 53-3 indicates the job type of the input job such as a print job or a copy job, and the attribute value 54-3 indicates that the "job type" is "print job". .

The attribute name 53-4 indicates the job password requested at the start of the job processing, and the attribute value 54-4 is such that the "job password" is "abcD12
34 ".

Further, the attribute name 53-5 indicates the paper selection used in the job, and the attribute value 54-5 indicates that "paper selection" is "A4".

The attribute name 53-6 indicates whether the printing side is only the front side, both sides, or only the back side in the job. Front side ".

The attribute name 53-7 indicates a start mode which is a timing or a condition under which the processing of the job is started by the peripheral device.

In the present embodiment, the meaning of each attribute and attribute name or attribute identifier and each attribute value as described above is known both in the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 and in the driver software.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a "attribute list supported by the job" which is a list of attributes of the job held by the peripheral device of FIG. It is stored in the ROM 25 or DISK 30 shown in FIG. However, the attributes listed in the “attribute list supported by the job” may be other attributes than the attributes shown in FIG. The “attribute list supported by the job” shown in FIG.
All attributes held by the job processed by the peripheral device are listed.

In the present embodiment, the “attribute list supported by the job” has column data whose attribute name is 6
1, setting permission 62, change permission 63, acquisition permission 64, and the row data is composed of attribute names 65-1 to 65-7. The permission / prohibition is TRUE in the case of permission and FALSE in the case of no.

As shown in this figure, in the "attribute list supported by the job", the attribute names 65-1 to 65-
Regarding item 7, whether the driver software is an attribute for which an attribute value can be set when a job is submitted (setting possibility 6
2) Whether the attribute value can be changed for an already-submitted job (change possibility 63) and whether the attribute value can be acquired for the submitted job (acquisition possibility 64) ) And "TRU"
"E" and those that are not possible are indicated by "FALSE".

Specifically, the attribute name 65-1 indicates the support status of the “job identifier” attribute, and the “job identifier”
The attribute cannot be set, cannot be changed, and can be obtained from the contents of the setting possibility 62, the change possibility 63, and the acquisition possibility 64.

The attribute name 65-2 indicates the support status of the “job name” attribute. The “job name” attribute is settable and changeable from the contents of the setting possibility 62, the change possibility 63, and the acquisition possibility 64. Impossible and obtainable.

Further, the attribute name 65-3 indicates the support status of the “job type” attribute. The “job type” attribute is settable and changeable from the contents of the setting possibility 62, the change possibility 63, and the acquisition possibility 64. Impossible and obtainable.

The attribute name 65-4 indicates the support status of the “job password” attribute, and the “job password” attribute includes setting possibility 62, changeability 63, acquisition possibility 6
From the contents of No. 4, setting is impossible, changing is impossible, and acquisition is impossible.

Further, the attribute name 65-5 is "paper selection".
It indicates the support status of the attribute, and the “paper selection” attribute can be set, cannot be changed, and can be acquired from the contents of the setting availability 62, change availability 63, and acquisition availability 64.

The attribute name 65-6 indicates the support status of the "double-sided printing" attribute. The "double-sided printing" attribute is settable and changeable from the contents of the setting possibility 62, the change possibility 63, and the acquisition possibility 64. Possible and obtainable.

The attribute name 65-7 is “start mode”.
Indicates the support status of the attribute. The “start mode” attribute indicates the setting possibility 62, the change possibility 63, and the acquisition possibility 64,
It can be set, cannot be changed, and can be acquired.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a “list of attribute values that can be specified in the job processing start mode” held by the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1. The ROM 25 and the DISK shown in FIG.
30.

The “list of attribute values that can be specified in the job processing start mode” shown in FIG. 7 is used by the driver software as the value of the “job processing start mode” attribute held by the job processed by the peripheral device. List the attribute values that can be specified.

However, the attribute values listed in the “list of attribute values that can be specified in the job processing start mode” may be other than the attribute values shown in FIG. In FIG. 7,
Five attribute values of “specify in absolute time”, “specify in relative time”, “wait for instruction with password”, “wait for instruction”, and “start immediately” are listed. However, the attribute values listed in the attribute value list change depending on the type of the peripheral device and the optional device of the peripheral device. For example, in the peripheral device A, the attribute value is only “immediate start”, and in the peripheral device B,
The attribute value may be only “wait for instruction with password”, “wait for instruction”, or “start immediately”.

In this embodiment, the “job processing start mode” attribute is listed in the “attribute list supported by the job” in FIG. 6 held by the peripheral device shown in FIG. It is assumed that other attributes required according to the setting value of the “job processing start mode” attribute are also listed in the “attribute list supported by the job” in FIG. For example, the “password” attribute is required as the “job processing start mode” attribute is set to “wait for instruction with password”.

The “job processing start mode” attribute indicates the setting of the job processing start condition input by the driver software to the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1, and the “job processing start mode” attribute , The start of the processing of the job to be submitted can be controlled.

In FIG. 7, “designate by absolute time” shown in the attribute value 301 indicates that the start time is designated by absolute time, and the job processing is started when the start time is reached. The attribute value also includes the specified start time.

"Specify by relative time" shown in the attribute value 302 indicates that the start time is specified by the relative time, and when the start time is reached, the job processing is started. The attribute value also includes the specified start time.

Further, "Waiting for instruction with password" indicated in attribute value 303 indicates that a job instruction is to be started only when a start instruction and password input are required and the start instruction is issued with a correct password. . The password to be authenticated in the start instruction is specified by a “job password” attribute. Start instruction and password are PC
It is assumed that the input is made by a command from the PC 32 or the PC 33 or the PC 34 or by the keyboard 24.

Also, “wait for instruction” indicated by the attribute value 304
Indicates that the user waits for a start instruction and starts the job processing when the start instruction is issued by the user. The start instruction is input by a command from PC 32 (or PC 33 or PC 34) or input by keyboard 24.

Further, “immediate start” indicated in the attribute value 305
Indicates that the job processing is started immediately after the job is input. That is, the peripheral device starts processing the job without inputting the start instruction or lapse of the predetermined time.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention. 2 shows a flow of processing in which driver software inquires the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 about attribute information of the peripheral device.

First, in step (81), the peripheral device is requested to acquire the “attribute list supported by the job”, and the attribute list is acquired. In step (82), it is checked whether or not the attribute list required by the driver software is included in the “attribute list supported by the job” acquired in step (81). If it is determined that is included, the process proceeds to step (83), otherwise, the process proceeds to step (85) and thereafter.

Then, in step (83), regarding the attribute A in the attribute list acquired in step (81),
From the attribute list, the driver software checks whether or not the attribute A can be set when the job is submitted. If it is determined that the attribute A can be set, the process proceeds to step (84).
Go to step 8
5) Proceed to the subsequent steps.

In step (84), a list of attribute values that can be set for the attribute A is obtained from the peripheral device shown in FIG. At step (85), it is determined whether or not the attribute A is an attribute that can be obtained by the driver software. If it is determined that the attribute is obtainable, the process proceeds to step (86). To end.

In step (86), the peripheral device is requested to acquire the value of attribute A.
And ends the process.

By the above processing, the driver software has information about what attributes the job processed by the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 has and what attribute values can be specified for each attribute. Can be obtained. Further, it is possible to obtain what attribute value is currently set for each attribute.

The process shown in FIG. 8 is executed when the user wants to print and starts the driver software. In addition, the driver software executes a list of attributes acquired in step (82),
Based on the attribute value list acquired in 4), a setting screen for the user to set attribute values for each attribute is constructed. Then, the driver software generates an attribute list 51 (FIG. 5) based on the attribute values set on the setting screen. The job data 52 (FIG. 5) is created from data output by an application program (for example, a text creation program, a spreadsheet program, or an image data creation program).

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of the “job processing start mode” attribute displayed on the CRT 43 shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 shows a screen on which the user sets a “job processing start mode” attribute when submitting a job to a peripheral device.
33 or the PC 34) is displayed on the CRT screen.

The setting screen shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the PC 32 (or PC 33 or PC 34) shown in FIG.
Before generating the screen of FIG. 1, the driver software
It is assumed that a list of values that can be set in the “job processing start mode” attribute has been acquired by the attribute information acquisition flow shown in FIG.

More specifically, in step (82), it is determined whether the "job processing start mode" attribute is included in the attribute list, and if it is included, step (83).
Then, it is determined whether the “job processing start mode” attribute can be set. If it is settable, in step (84), a list of attribute values that can be set in the “job processing start mode” is obtained from the peripheral device.

In FIG. 9, the title 110 of the setting screen
Indicates a brief description of the setting screen, and indicates that the setting screen is for specifying the value of the “job processing start mode” attribute.

The list box 101 displays a list of attribute values that can be set for the “job processing start mode” attribute obtained by the attribute information acquisition flow shown in FIG. The attribute values listed in the list box 101 are shown in FIG.
Corresponds to those listed in the list of values that can be set in the “job processing start mode” attribute shown in FIG.

Then, PC32 or PC33 or P
In C34, the user can select a desired setting value from the list box 101 by using the keyboard 44 and the pointing device 45.

The reverse display 102 shows the value of the currently selected “job processing start mode” attribute. In the example of FIG. 9, “wait for instruction with password” is selected. The OK button 103 is a button for determining the attribute value of the attribute of the job to be input to the value indicated by the reverse display 102. When the OK button 103 is pressed, the selected attribute value is stored in the attribute value 54-7 (FIG. 5).

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a job processing start password setting screen displayed on the CRT 43 shown in FIG. This is a setting screen for the user to set a password when the user sets “wait for instruction with password” on the setting screen of the “job processing start mode” attribute shown in FIG. PC32 shown in
(Or the PC 33 or the PC 34) on the CRT 43. Note that this password corresponds to a password input on the user interface 6 of the peripheral device in association with the instruction to start the job processing.

The user interface 6 is shown in FIG.
Before generating the screen shown in FIG. 0, it is assumed that the maximum value of the length of the password that can be used in waiting for the start instruction with the password has been obtained by the attribute information obtaining flow shown in FIG.

In FIG. 10, the title 21 of the setting screen
0 indicates a brief description of the setting screen, and indicates that the setting screen is for setting a password to be input accompanying a job processing start instruction. In the edit box 211, a password to be entered on the user interface 6 of the peripheral device is set. The OK button 212 is a button for determining a password to be collated in response to an instruction to start processing of a job to be submitted to a value input to the edit box 211. The driver software is
The determined password length is compared with the "maximum password length that can be used in waiting for a start instruction with a password" obtained in advance, and if it exceeds the maximum value, a warning is displayed. Prompt for password again.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention. The driver software installed in the storage media of the PCs 32 to 34 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to a processing procedure for setting a “job processing start mode” attribute when a job is input to the peripheral device shown in FIG. Note that (111) to (117) indicate each step.

First, in step (111), it is determined whether or not “wait for start instruction” is selected and determined on the setting screen for the “start mode of job processing” attribute shown in FIG. If it is determined that "" has been selected and determined, the process proceeds to step (112); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (113). If “wait for start instruction” cannot be set, specifically, if “wait for start instruction” is not included in the attribute value list of FIG. 7, the process immediately proceeds to step (113). move on.

Then, in step (112), "wait for start instruction" is set in the "job process start mode" of the job to be submitted, and the process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (111) that “wait for start instruction” is not to be selected / determined, in step (113), the setting screen of the “job process start mode” attribute shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. It is determined whether or not “wait for start instruction with password” is selected and determined. If it is determined that “Wait for start instruction with password” has been selected / determined, the process proceeds to step (114), and if it is determined that it is not, the process proceeds to step (117). If “wait for start instruction with password” cannot be set, specifically, if “wait for start instruction with password” is not included in the attribute value list in FIG. Proceed to (113).

Then, in step (114), FIG.
Is displayed, the password input along with the start instruction by the user interface 6 of the peripheral device after the job is input is set on the setting screen, and the password is set in step (11).
Proceed to 5). In step (115), step (11)
The length of the password set in 4) is compared with the “maximum value of the length of the password that can be used in waiting for the start instruction with a password” acquired in advance, and step (1) is performed.
It is determined whether the length of the password input in 14) does not exceed the maximum value that can be specified. If it is determined that it has not exceeded, the process proceeds to step (116), otherwise, the process returns to step (114).

In step (116), the "job processing start mode" is set to "wait for instruction with password".
Is set, and the password input in step (114) is set as the password associated with “waiting for instruction with password”, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (113) that “waiting for start instruction with password” has not been selected and determined, in step (117), the other mode is set to “job processing start mode”. Since the selected / determined mode is set, the selected / determined mode is set as the “job processing start mode”, necessary processing is performed for each mode, and the processing is terminated.

In step (117), it is determined whether “immediate start” is selected and determined on the setting screen of FIG. 9, and if “immediate start” is selected and determined, the input is made. Set "Wait for start instruction" in the "Job processing start mode" of the job. Also, it is determined whether or not “Specify by absolute time” is selected / determined. If “Specify by absolute time” is selected / determined, a setting screen for setting the absolute time is displayed. Set "Specify in absolute time" in "Job processing start mode" of Also,
It is determined whether or not “Specify by relative time” is selected / determined. If “Specify by relative time” is selected / determined,
A setting screen for setting the relative time is displayed, and “specify by relative time” is set in the “job processing start mode” of the job.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present invention. The driver software installed in the storage media of the PCs 32 to 34 shown in FIG. 1 corresponds to a processing procedure for submitting a job to the peripheral device shown in FIG. Incidentally, (121) to (126) indicate each step.

First, the driver software repeats steps (121) to (124) until the setting of the attributes required for job processing is completed.

First, in step (122), the driver software sets the parameters of the attribute setting command in order to set the attributes of the job in the attribute list 51 shown in FIG. 5 according to the job processing.

Here, the attributes of the job that can be set by the driver software are listed in the “attribute list supported by the job” shown in FIG. 6 obtained by the processing shown in FIG. Setting possibility 62 is "TRUE"
The attribute is

The values that can be set for the attribute are shown in “List of Settable Values” (FIG. 7) obtained by the processing shown in FIG.

Next, in step (123), the attribute setting command created in step (122) is transmitted to the peripheral device to which a job is to be submitted.

This step (122) and step (12)
3) is performed for each attribute.

In step (125), data to be subjected to job processing, such as image data created by an application or the like, is transmitted to the peripheral device by a job data transmission command. Then, step (12)
In 6), a job submission completion notification command indicating the completion of transmission of the job submission command is transmitted, and the process ends.

By this series of job input processing, a job as shown in FIG. 5 is generated in the peripheral device.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the peripheral device according to the present invention. The peripheral device shown in FIG.
34 corresponds to a processing procedure executed when a job input command is received from driver software installed in the storage medium of No. 34. (131) to (14)
0) indicates each step.

First, in step (131), the peripheral device shown in FIG. 1 analyzes the command and its parameters received from the driver software, holds the result, and proceeds to step (132).

In step (132), step (13)
From the result of the analysis in 1), it is determined whether the received command is an attribute setting command. If it is determined that the command is an attribute setting command, the process proceeds to step (133); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (136).

Then, in step (133), the "attribute list supported by the job" shown in FIG. 6 and the analysis result obtained in step (131) are checked, and specified by the received attribute setting command. It is determined whether the attribute can be set. If it is determined that the designated attribute can be set, the process proceeds to step (134), otherwise, the process proceeds to step (135).

In step (134), the designated attribute value is set to the designated attribute in accordance with the analysis result obtained in step (131), and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (133) that the designated attribute cannot be set, the process proceeds to step (1).
In 35), the attribute specified by the received attribute setting command cannot be set, and the driver software is notified that the attribute could not be set, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (132) that the command is not an attribute setting command, step (136)
Then, it is determined from the analysis result obtained in step (131) whether the received command is a job data transmission command. If it is determined that the command is a job data transmission command, the process proceeds to step (137); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (138).

At step (137), the job data received following the command is stored in the RA shown in FIG.
The data is stored in M22 or DISK 30, and the process is terminated.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (136) that the received command is not a job data transmission command, then in step (138), based on the analysis result obtained in step (131), it is determined whether the received command is a job submission end notification command. Determine whether If it is determined that the command is a job submission end notification command, the process proceeds to step (140); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (139).

Then, in step (140), preparations are made for starting the job processing, and the processing advances to the processing shown in FIG. 15 in order to determine the conditions for starting the job processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (138) that the received command is not a job submission end notification command, it is determined in step (139) that the received command is another command, and processing depending on those commands is performed. And terminate the process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the peripheral device according to the present invention. The peripheral device shown in FIG.
34 corresponds to a processing procedure when an access command to access a job attribute is received from the driver software installed in the storage medium of No. 34. (141) ~
(151) shows each step.

First, in step (141), the received command and its parameters are analyzed. Then, in step (142), it is checked whether or not the received command is an attribute acquisition command from the result of the analysis in step (141). If it is determined that the command is an attribute acquisition command, the process proceeds to step (143); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (148).

Then, in a step (143), it is checked whether or not the attribute designated by the attribute acquisition command can be acquired. When it is determined that the attribute can be acquired, the process proceeds to step (144), and when it is determined that the attribute is not the other, the process proceeds to step (147).

In step (144), the value of the attribute held in the peripheral device is acquired, and the flow advances to step (145). In step (144), the obtained attribute value is used as a parameter of the reply command. Set, send a reply command to the attribute acquisition command to the driver software, and end the processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (143) that the attribute can be acquired, the process proceeds to step (147).
Then, a process of notifying the driver software that the acquisition of the attribute has failed (transmission process of an error reply command) is performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (142) that the command is not an attribute acquisition command, step (148)
Then, it is checked whether or not the received command is an attribute value change command from the result of the analysis in step (141). If it is determined that the command is an attribute value change command (attribute change command), the process proceeds to step (149); otherwise, the process proceeds to step (146).

Then, in a step (149), it is checked whether or not the attribute specified by the attribute value change command can be changed. If it is determined that the change can be made, the process proceeds to step (150).
Proceed to step (152).

In step (150), the attribute value of the designated attribute is changed to the designated attribute value in accordance with the designated command parameter, and step (151)
Then, the process of notifying the driver software that the attribute value has been successfully changed is performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (149) that the change is not possible, in step (152), a process of notifying the driver software that the change of the attribute value has failed (error reply command transmission) is performed. The process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (148) that the received command is not an attribute change command, the flow advances to step (146) to determine that the received command is another command, and depend on those commands. The processing is performed, and the processing ends.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the peripheral device according to the present invention. The peripheral device shown in FIG.
34 corresponds to a processing procedure for processing a job input from driver software installed in the storage medium of No. 34. Note that (161) to (167) indicate each step, and the steps (161) to (167) are assumed to be continuously executed from the step (140) illustrated in FIG.

First, in step (161), it is determined whether or not the value of the “job processing start mode” attribute is “immediate start”. If it is determined that the value is “immediate start”,
The process proceeds to step (162), and if it is determined that it is other than that, the process proceeds to step (163).

Then, in step (162), the job processing is immediately started, and the processing ends. If a job currently being processed already exists, the input job is connected to the end of the queue to which the job waiting to be processed is connected. Then, when the turn of the input job comes, the job is started immediately.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (161) that it is not "start immediately", then in step (163)
It is checked whether the value of the “job processing start mode” attribute is “wait for start instruction”. If it is determined to be "waiting for start instruction", the flow proceeds to step (164), and if it is determined to be other than that, the flow proceeds to step (165).

Then, in step (164), the job is held and waits until there is a start instruction from the user. If there is a start instruction, the job processing is started and the processing is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (163) that it is not "waiting for start instruction", then step (165)
Then, it is determined whether or not the value of the “job processing start mode” attribute is “waiting for start instruction with password”. If it is determined that it is "Waiting for start instruction with password",
Proceed to step (166), otherwise proceed to step (167).

Then, in a step (166), processing in an instruction waiting mode with a password shown in FIG. 16 described later is performed, and the processing is ended.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (165) that it is not "waiting for start instruction with password", then in step (167), the other "job processing start mode"
Perform the process corresponding to the attribute value, and end the process.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the peripheral device according to the present invention. The detailed procedure of the processing in the waiting mode with password start instruction in step (166) shown in FIG. Corresponding. Note that (171) to (174) indicate each step.

First, in step (171), the peripheral device holds the input job and waits until the user interface 6 waits for a start instruction with a password. If there is a start instruction with a password, the process proceeds to step (172), where the password input by the user in accordance with the start instruction with the password is collated with the “job processing start password” set at the time of submitting the job. , And proceed to step (173).

As a result of the password comparison in step (172), it is determined whether or not the two passwords match. If it is determined that they match, step (17)
Proceed to 4), and if it is determined to be other than the above, step (1)
Return to 71).

Then, in step (174), the processing of the job is started, and the processing ends.

According to the above embodiment, the driver for controlling the peripheral device installed on the information processing apparatus does not have knowledge of the start mode corresponding to the peripheral device to which the input / output job is to be input. Even in this case, it is possible to analyze the attribute information indicating the start mode of the job processing that can be specified as the start mode of the job processing, and to allow the user of the information processing apparatus to identify the start mode executable by the peripheral device. Therefore, the optimum start mode selected from the identified start modes can be freely set in the peripheral device by the control command.

Further, since the start mode of the job processing according to the attribute information acquired from the peripheral device is the start instruction waiting mode or the start instruction waiting mode with password, even if the predetermined driver does not recognize the start mode in advance,
By holding a job submitted to a peripheral device by a predetermined driver and transmitting a control command according to attribute information from the information processing device to the peripheral device, the submitted job can be executed in an intended start mode. it can.

Further, when the start mode to be identified is the start instruction waiting mode with a password, the attribute information includes the maximum value of the password that can be set, so that a password that cannot be verified by the peripheral device is set. Can be avoided.

In the above-described embodiment, a method has been described in which the start mode can be selected when the peripheral device to which a job is to be input is already determined. However, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of peripheral devices (MFP 31, MFP 336, MFP 3
When 7) is connected to a network, the user can select a peripheral device having a desired start mode from a plurality of peripheral devices.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a “list of attributes that can be specified in the start mode of the sword processing” for each peripheral device.
From this list, in the MFP 31, “specify in absolute time”
“Specify in relative time”, “Wait for instruction with password”, “Wait for instruction”, and “Start immediately” can be specified as the start mode. In the MFP 36, only “wait for instruction with password” and “start immediately” can be designated as the start mode. Also, MF
In P37, only "wait for attached instruction" and "start immediately" can be designated as the start mode.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a setting screen for the “job processing start mode” attribute and a printer selection screen.
These screens are displayed on PC32 (or PC33 or P33).
C34) is displayed on the screen of the display device.

In order to display the screen shown in FIG. 19, the driver software executes the attribute information acquisition flow shown in FIG. 8 for each peripheral device and sets the attribute to the “job processing start mode” attribute. A list of possible attribute values is obtained from each peripheral device.

Specifically, first, a request for acquiring a “supported attribute list” is transmitted to the MFP 31 to acquire an attribute list. Then, in step (82) of FIG.
It is determined whether the “job processing start mode” attribute is included in the attribute list. If it is included, in step (83), it is determined whether the “job processing start mode” attribute can be set. judge. If the setting is enabled, a list of attribute values that can be set in the “job processing start mode” is obtained from the MFP 31 in step (84). Similarly, a list of attribute values that can be set in the “job processing start mode” is obtained from the MFP 36 and the MFP 37.

Then, the MPF 31, the MFP 36, the MFP
All attribute values that can be specified at 37 are displayed in a list box 1901. The user sets the list box 19
01, the information indicating the peripheral device capable of executing the specified start mode is displayed in the list box 1
902. In the example of FIG. 18, the peripheral devices that can specify “wait for instruction with password” as the start mode are:
Since the MFPs are the MFP 31 and the MFP 36, the list box 1
If “wait for instruction with password” is specified in 901,
The list box 1902 displays “MFP31” and “MFP3”.
6 "are listed. Also, in the example of FIG.
Peripheral devices that can be specified as the start mode are the MFP 31
If “wait for instruction” is designated in the list box 1911, the
“MFP31” and “MFP36” are listed.

Further, when the OK button 1903 is pressed, the attribute value specified in the list box 1901 is stored in the attribute value 54-7, and the job is input to the peripheral device selected in the list box 1902.

As described above, even if the user does not know the start mode that can be executed in each peripheral device, the desired start mode can be executed in any of the plurality of peripheral devices. Also, since the driver software obtains a “list of attribute values that can be specified in the start mode” from each peripheral device, the driver software can be executed on each peripheral device when installed on the PC. Even when the start mode is not recognized, the job can be input to a peripheral device capable of executing the start mode desired by the user when the job is input.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program that can be read by an image processing system to which the information processing apparatus and the peripheral device according to the present invention can be applied will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which the print control device according to the present invention can be applied.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator and the like are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, a program is stored in the storage medium. An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

FIGS. 8, 11, and 12 in this embodiment.
The functions shown in FIGS. 13 to 16 may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. And in that case, the CD-R
The present invention is applicable even when a group of information including a program is supplied to an output device from a storage medium such as an OM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program code of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the program code itself or the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. Will do.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program codes, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program codes. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is also included.

[0151]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Even if the driver software for controlling the installed peripheral device does not know in advance whether or not there is a start mode for the peripheral device to which a job is to be submitted, the start mode executable by the peripheral device is processed. It can be identified by the user on the device side.

Further, a desired start mode selected by the user from the identified start modes can be freely set in the peripheral device by a control command. In particular, a mode for starting processing of a job after a start instruction such as a start instruction wait mode or a password-attached start instruction wait mode is set in the peripheral device, and the output start timing and start of the job are set according to the needs of the user. Conditions can be controlled freely.

Further, even if the user does not know the start mode that can be executed in each peripheral device, the desired start mode can be executed in any of the plurality of peripheral devices. In addition, since the driver software obtains a "list of attribute values that can be specified in the start mode" from each peripheral device, the driver software is installed on each information processing device when it is installed in the information processing apparatus. Even when the start mode that can be executed is not recognized, the job can be input to a peripheral device that can execute the start mode desired by the user when the job is input.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a peripheral device.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of hardware resources for a controller.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a network system to which peripheral devices can be applied.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an information processing apparatus.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a job processed by a peripheral device.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of an “attribute list supported by a job”, which is a list of attributes of a job held by a peripheral device.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a “list of attributes that can be specified in a job processing start mode” held by a peripheral device;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen of a “job processing start mode” attribute displayed on a CRT.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a job processing start password setting screen displayed on the CRT.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in a peripheral device.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in a peripheral device.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure in a peripheral device.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth data processing procedure in a peripheral device.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which a print control device can be applied.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a “list of attributes that can be specified in a job processing start mode” held by a peripheral device.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen for a “job processing start mode” attribute and a peripheral device selection screen displayed on the CRT.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Controller 2 Communication Interface 3 Scanner Engine 4 Printer Engine 5 FAX Board 6 User Interface

Claims (41)

[Claims] 1. A system for processing a job generated by an information processing apparatus by a peripheral device, wherein information indicating a condition that can be designated in the job is processed as a start condition for the peripheral device to start processing the job. Requesting means for requesting the peripheral device from the device, transmitting means for transmitting information indicating a condition that can be specified as the start condition from the peripheral device to the information processing device in response to a request from the information processing device, Display control means for displaying a condition that can be specified on the display unit of the information processing device; and command transmission means for transmitting a command designating a condition selected from the conditions displayed on the display unit from the information processing device to the peripheral device And a system comprising: 2. A condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. The system according to claim 1. 3. A condition that can be specified as the start condition is such that a job processing is started if the input password is correct in response to a password input from an information processing device or a password input from an operation unit. The system according to claim 1, wherein the condition is included. 4. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started when a job is received, a condition that job processing is started at a specified absolute time, and a condition that is specified. 4. The system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of conditions for starting processing of the job after a lapse of the relative time is included. 5. The system according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral device is any one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral. 6. A method of processing a job generated by an information processing device with a peripheral device, wherein the information processing device indicates a condition that can be specified in the job as a start condition for the peripheral device to start processing the job. Requesting information from a peripheral device, the peripheral device transmits information indicating a condition that can be specified as the start condition from the peripheral device to the information processing device in response to a request from the information processing device, A method comprising: displaying a condition that can be specified as the start condition on a display unit; and transmitting, from the information processing apparatus, a command specifying a selected condition among the conditions displayed on the display unit to the peripheral device. 7. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that a job process is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. The method of claim 6. 8. A condition that can be specified as the start condition is such that a job process is started if the input password is correct in response to a password input from an information processing device or a password input from an operation unit. The method according to claim 6, wherein the condition is included. 9. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started when a job is received, a condition that job processing is started at a specified absolute time, and a specified condition. 9. The method according to claim 6, wherein at least one of conditions for starting processing of the job after a lapse of the relative time has been included. 10. The method according to claim 6, wherein the peripheral device is one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral. 11. A peripheral device capable of processing a job received from an information processing apparatus, wherein the storage unit stores a condition that can be specified in the job as a start condition for starting processing of the received job. A transmission unit configured to transmit information indicating a condition that can be specified as the start condition to the information processing device in response to a request from the device. 12. A job processing means for receiving a control command indicating a condition designated as the start condition from an information processing device, and controlling a timing of processing a job from the information processing device. The peripheral device according to claim 11. 13. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. The peripheral device according to claim 11. 14. A holding unit for holding a job in which a condition for starting processing of a job is specified in response to a start instruction, and a job held in the holding unit in response to input of a start instruction. 15. The peripheral device according to claim 14, further comprising: a job processing unit that starts the processing of (1). 15. The job processing is started if the input password is correct in response to a password input from an information processing device or a password input from an operation unit, as the condition that can be designated as the start condition. 14. The peripheral device according to claim 11, wherein the following condition is included. 16. A holding means for holding a job in which a condition that job processing is started in response to input of a password, and determining whether or not the input password is correct in response to input of the password. 16. The peripheral device according to claim 15, further comprising: a job processing unit configured to start the processing of the job held in the holding unit when the judgment is made and the judgment is made that the job is correct. 17. The job processing means compares the input password with a password attached to the received job, and determines whether or not the input password is correct based on a result of the comparison. The peripheral device according to claim 16, wherein: 18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the transmitting unit transmits information indicating a maximum value of a specifiable password length to the information processing apparatus with respect to a condition that processing of a job is started in response to a password input. Claims 15 to 17
The peripheral device according to any of the above. 19. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started as the job is received, a condition that job processing is started at a specified absolute time, 19. The peripheral device according to claim 11, wherein at least one of conditions for starting processing of a job after a lapse of the relative time is included. 20. The peripheral device according to claim 11, wherein the peripheral device is one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral. 21. An information processing apparatus for generating a job and issuing the generated job to a peripheral device, wherein a condition that can be specified in the generated job is set as a start condition for the peripheral device to start processing the job. Acquiring means for acquiring information to be indicated from a peripheral device, and display control means for displaying a condition that can be specified as the start condition on a display unit based on the acquired information, and the condition displayed on the display unit. An information processing apparatus for transmitting a command designating a condition selected from among the above. 22. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein a command designating the selected condition is transmitted to a peripheral device together with the job. 23. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that job processing is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21. 24. The condition that can be specified as the start condition is such that a job process is started if the input password is correct in response to a password input from an information processing device or a password input from an operation unit. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the condition is included. 25. The display control unit displays an input screen for inputting a password on a display unit in response to selection of a condition that job processing is started in response to input of a password. The information processing apparatus according to claim 24, wherein 26. A condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that processing of the job is started when the job is received, a condition that the processing of the job is started at a specified absolute time, and a specified condition. 26. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein at least one of conditions for starting processing of the job after a lapse of the relative time is included. 27. The display control unit according to claim 21, wherein when driver software for generating a job is activated, a condition that can be specified as the start condition is displayed on a screen of the driver software. Or 2
7. The information processing apparatus according to any one of 6. 28. The acquisition unit acquires information indicating a condition that can be designated as the start condition from a plurality of peripheral devices, and the display control unit acquires the selected condition in accordance with the selection of the condition. 28. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein a peripheral device capable of designating is displayed on the display unit. 29. The information processing apparatus according to claim 28, wherein a command designating the selected condition is transmitted to the selected peripheral device. 30. The information processing apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the peripheral device is one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral. 31. A program for controlling an information processing device that generates a job and issues the generated job to a peripheral device, the information processing device according to the program starting the peripheral device to start processing the job. As a condition, information indicating a condition that can be specified in the generated job is acquired from a peripheral device. Based on the acquired information, a condition that can be specified as the start condition is displayed on a display unit, and displayed on the display unit. A program for transmitting a command designating a condition selected from the selected conditions. 32. The program according to claim 31, wherein the information processing apparatus transmits a command specifying the selected condition to the peripheral device together with the job according to the program. 33. The condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that processing of a job is started in response to a start instruction from an information processing apparatus or a start instruction from an operation unit. A program according to claim 31 or 32. 34. The condition that can be specified as the start condition is that, if the input password is correct according to the input of a password from the information processing device or the input of the password from the operation unit, the job processing is started. The program according to any one of claims 31 to 33, wherein the condition is included. 35. The information processing apparatus according to the program, displays an input screen for inputting a password on a display unit in response to selection of a condition that job processing is started in response to input of a password. 35. The program according to claim 34, wherein: 36. A condition that can be specified as the start condition includes a condition that processing of the job is started when the job is received, a condition that the processing of the job is started at a specified absolute time, and a specified condition. The program according to any one of claims 31 to 35, wherein at least one of conditions for starting processing of the job after a lapse of the relative time is included. 37. The information processing apparatus according to the program, wherein, when driver software for generating a job is started, a condition that can be specified as the start condition is displayed on a screen of the driver software. A program according to any one of Items 31 to 36. 38. The information processing apparatus according to the program, stores information indicating a condition that can be designated as the start condition,
The program according to any one of claims 31 to 37, wherein a peripheral device that can be obtained from a plurality of peripheral devices and that can specify the selected condition is displayed on a display unit as the condition is selected. . 39. The program according to claim 38, wherein the information processing apparatus transmits a command designating the selected condition to the selected peripheral device according to the program. 40. The program according to claim 31, wherein the peripheral device is one of a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile machine, and a multifunction peripheral. 41. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for controlling an information processing device that generates a job and issues the generated job to a peripheral device. Acquiring, from a peripheral device, information indicating a condition that can be specified in a generated job as a start condition for the peripheral device to start processing a job, and specifying a condition that can be specified as the start condition based on the obtained information. A recording medium which is displayed on a display unit and transmits a command for designating a condition selected from the conditions displayed on the display unit.