JP2004029893A - Recording apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent a main body of a recording apparatus from being affected by protecting the recording apparatus and a memory card reader when a memory card which consumes unexpected over currents is inserted into the memory card reader. <P>SOLUTION: The recording apparatus has: the memory card reader which is operated by power supplied from a Vbus of a USB interface and controls read of data stored on the memory card; a connection means for connecting the USB interface and the memory card reader; a receiving means for receiving data read by the memory card reader via the USB interface; a means for recording the data received by the receiving means on a recording paper; a current monitoring means for monitoring a current in the Vbus; and a power supply stop means for stopping supplying power to the Vbus connected to the memory card reader in accordance with an output signal of the current monitoring means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a recording device connected to a memory card reader via a USB interface, and more particularly to a recording device capable of recording image data stored in a memory card on recording paper.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art With the spread of digital cameras in recent years, a recording device (a recording device having a memory card reader) that records image data shot by a digital camera and stored in various memory cards on recording paper without using a personal computer. ) Is disclosed in JP-A-2001-096844.
[0003]
In this conventional recording apparatus, a control unit of the recording apparatus and a memory card reader are connected by a USB interface, power is supplied from the Vbus of the USB interface to the memory card reader, the memory card reader is operated, and the memory card reader is operated. The image data stored in the memory card inserted in the printer is read out, transferred to the control unit of the recording device via the USB interface, and subjected to image processing and then recorded.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the above-described conventional example, since the user can insert a favorite memory card into the memory card reader, the recording device does not know what kind of memory card is inserted. Therefore, a memory card that consumes a large amount of power may be inserted, and in some cases, a memory card in which an overcurrent flows due to a failure may be inserted.
[0005]
When an unexpected current flows through the memory card reader in this way, the power capacity of the power supply of the recording device is exceeded, causing a problem that the power supply is broken down, and the recording device operates due to the operation of the power supply protection circuit. This causes a problem that the memory card reader does not work.
[0006]
The present invention provides a recording device that protects a recording device and a memory card reader when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader and does not affect the recording device main body. It is the purpose.
[0007]
Another object of the present invention is to provide a recording apparatus capable of stopping supply of current to a memory card reader when a current of a predetermined value or more flows through the memory card reader.
[0008]
Furthermore, the present invention provides a recording device that stops power supply to a memory card reader by lowering a voltage applied to the memory card reader when a current of a predetermined value or more flows through the memory card reader. The purpose is.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention connects a USB interface, a memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface, and controls reading of data stored in a memory card, and the USB interface and the memory card reader. Connecting means for receiving data read by the memory card reader through the USB interface; means for recording the data received by the receiving means on recording paper; and current monitoring for monitoring the current of the Vbus. And a power supply stopping means for stopping power supply to the Vbus connected to the memory card reader in response to an output signal of the current monitoring means.
[0010]
Embodiments and Examples of the Invention
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
[0011]
In the recording device 100, the control unit 101, the ROM 102, the RAM 103, the buffer memory 104, the recording processing unit 105, the recording unit 106, the operation unit 107, the USB communication unit 108, the memory card reader 109, It has a current detection unit 110, a switch unit 111, a bus 120, and a control signal 121.
[0012]
The control unit 101 controls the entire recording apparatus 100 according to a program stored in the ROM 102. The ROM 102 is a memory that stores a control program for controlling the recording device 100. The RAM 103 is a memory used for performing arithmetic processing and the like necessary for controlling the printing apparatus 100. The buffer memory 104 is a memory for temporarily storing image data and the like recorded by the recording unit 106. The recording processing unit 105 is a recording processing unit that converts image data read from the memory card reader 109 into a format optimal for recording processing.
[0013]
The recording unit 106 records image data on a recording medium. The operation unit 107 operates the recording device. The USB communication unit 108 communicates with the memory card reader 109 by USB.
[0014]
The memory card reader 109 receives power supply from Vbus and reads out image data stored in various memory cards. Further, the memory card reader 109 has a USB interface, operates by receiving power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface, controls reading of a memory card such as a CF card, a memory stick, and an SD card, and performs a read control via the USB interface. Then, the image data read from the memory card is transferred to the recording device 100.
[0015]
The overcurrent detection unit 110 monitors whether an overcurrent flows through Vbus. The switch unit 111 turns ON / OFF the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109 according to the ON / OFF signal 121 output from the USB communication unit 108.
[0016]
The bus 120 connects the control unit 101 and each block. The control signal 121 is a signal for turning on / off the switch unit 111.
[0017]
The Vbus 122 is standardized by USB and supplies power for operating a USB device.
[0018]
The differential signals 123 and 124 are differential signals D + and D− standardized by USB, respectively, 125 is GND, and the detection output signal 126 is a detection output signal from the overcurrent detection unit. .
[0019]
Upon receiving the image data from the memory card reader 109 via the USB communication unit 108, the control unit 101 temporarily stores the image data in the buffer memory 104, simultaneously reads out the image data stored in the buffer memory 104 sequentially, and sends the image data to the recording processing unit 105. Forward.
[0020]
The recording processing unit 105 decodes the received image data (generally, JPEG data), decomposes the received image data into CMYK color components, and improves the characteristics of the recording unit 106 and the recording medium so as to further improve the color reproducibility. The image processing corresponding to the property (the type of the recording paper) is executed, and is transferred to the recording unit 106. The recording unit 106 records the recording data sent from the recording processing unit on a recording medium.
[0021]
Here, if a memory card that consumes a large amount of power is inserted into the memory card reader 109 or a memory card that fails and an overcurrent flows is inserted, and the overcurrent detection unit 110 determines that an overcurrent has occurred, the detection output A signal 126 is sent to the control unit 101 to notify the control unit 101 of the overcurrent.
[0022]
Upon receiving this detection output signal, the control unit 101 determines that the state is abnormal, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, turns the regulator ON / OFF signal 121 off, and sends the Vbus signal to the memory card reader 109. Supply, that is, power supply is stopped.
[0023]
Thereafter, when a predetermined operation is performed from the operation unit by the operator, a command is sent again to the USB communication unit 108, the ON / OFF signal 121 of the regulator is turned on, the switch unit 111 is turned on, and the memory card reader 109 is turned on. Let it return.
[0024]
FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a specific example of the overcurrent detection unit 110.
[0025]
The overcurrent detector 110 has a comparator 21 and resistors 22 to 26, and 126 is an overcurrent detection signal. Here, assuming that the current flowing through Vbus is i and the voltage of Vbus is e, the potential of the minus terminal of the comparator 21 is R3 · e / (R + R3), and the potential of the plus terminal is R2 · (e−R I).
[0026]
If the value of R2 is set slightly larger than the value of R3, in the normal state, the potential on the + terminal side is higher, and the comparator outputs the “H” level.
[0027]
However, when the current flowing through Vbus increases, the potential on the + terminal side decreases, reverses, and the output of the comparator is inverted to “L” level.
[0028]
When confirming that the output signal 126 of the comparator has been inverted to the “L” level, the control unit 101 turns off the switch unit 111. The current value at which the comparator 21 outputs the “L” level is a current value that satisfies R3 · e / (R + R3)> R2 · (e−R · i).
i> (e / R)-(R3 * (R + R2)) / (R * R2 * (R + R3))
, The output of the comparator is inverted. Therefore, the values of R, R2, and R3 may be determined according to the current value to be detected.
[0029]
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation when an overcurrent of Vbus is detected.
[0030]
First, the control unit 101 monitors the output of the overcurrent detection unit 110, and if an overcurrent is detected in S11, proceeds to step S12, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, and turns off the switch unit 111, that is, Turn off Vbus.
[0031]
In S13, the fact that there is an error in the memory card reader 109 is displayed on a display unit included in the operation unit 107. In S14, when the operator performs a predetermined return operation via the operation unit 107, the process proceeds to S15, where a command is sent to the USB communication unit 108, the switch unit 111 is turned on, and Vbus is supplied to the memory card reader 109.
[0032]
According to the above embodiment, the overcurrent of the memory card reader 109 is detected by a simple configuration, and when the overcurrent is detected, the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109, that is, the power supply, can be stopped. it can.
[0033]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
[0034]
The recording apparatus 200 includes a regulator 115 and a voltage detection section 116 instead of the overcurrent detection section 100 and the switch section 111 in the recording apparatus 100.
[0035]
Note that the description of the recording apparatus 100 in the description of the components 101 to 109 in the recording apparatus 100 is replaced with the description of the recording apparatus 200.
[0036]
The regulator 115 with a droop function drops the input voltage of Vcc (> Vbus) to generate Vbus, and droops the output voltage when an overcurrent detection circuit detects an overcurrent.
[0037]
The regulator 115 has an ON / OFF terminal, and is ON / OFF controlled by an ON / OFF signal 121 output from the USB communication unit 108. When Vbus becomes lower than a predetermined voltage, the voltage detection unit 116 detects this voltage drop, outputs a detection output signal 128, and notifies the control unit 101.
[0038]
As described in the first embodiment, a memory card that consumes a large amount of power is inserted into the memory card reader 109, or a memory card that fails and overcurrents is inserted into the memory card reader 109, When the drooping function is activated and the voltage of Vbus drops and becomes lower than a predetermined voltage, the voltage detection unit 116 detects the voltage drop and notifies the control unit 101 via a signal 128.
[0039]
When receiving this detection output, the control unit 101 determines that the state is abnormal, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, turns the regulator ON / OFF signal 121 off, and sends the Vbus signal to the memory card reader 109. Stop the voltage supply.
[0040]
Thereafter, when the operator performs a predetermined operation via the operation unit 107, a command is sent to the USB communication unit 108 again, the ON / OFF signal 121 of the regulator 115 is turned on, and the memory card reader 109 is returned. .
[0041]
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a specific circuit example of the voltage detection unit 116.
[0042]
The voltage detection unit 116 has a comparator 31 to which 3.3 V is applied as a reference voltage, and the comparator 31 outputs a voltage detection output signal 128.
[0043]
Here, when Vbus drops due to the overcurrent and becomes lower than the reference voltage +3.3 V, the output signal 128 of the comparator 31 is inverted to notify the control unit 101 of the overcurrent. In the above embodiment, the reference voltage is +3.3 V, but another voltage value may be set as the reference voltage.
[0044]
According to the second embodiment, the overcurrent of the memory card reader 109 can be detected with a simple configuration, and when an overcurrent state occurs, the voltage of Vbus can be reduced, that is, the power supply can be stopped.
[0045]
By the way, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into a memory card reader, a process for protecting the recording device main body and the memory card is executed, and thereafter, the recording device is returned to the normal operation state. It is necessary for the operator to perform an error clearing process such as removing the memory card from the memory card reader.
[0046]
However, if the operator is not informed of the situation of the error and how to recover from the error, the operator will not know what has happened, and will not know how to deal with it. Occurs.
[0047]
According to the present invention, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into a memory card reader, processing for protecting the recording apparatus main body and the memory card is executed, and thereafter, the recording apparatus is returned to a normal operation state. In this case, it is an object of the present invention to provide a recording device capable of notifying an operator in an easy-to-understand manner that a memory card reader is in an abnormal state, a method of releasing the abnormal state, and a method of returning the memory card reader. is there.
[0048]
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
[0049]
The recording device 300 includes a control unit 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a buffer memory 104, a recording processing unit 105, a recording unit 106, an operation unit 107, a USB communication unit 108, a memory card reader 109, It has a current detection unit 110, a switch unit 111, and a character generator 118.
[0050]
The control unit 101 controls the entire recording apparatus according to a program stored in the ROM 102. The ROM 102 is a memory that stores a control program for controlling the recording device 300. The RAM 103 is a memory used for performing arithmetic processing and the like necessary for controlling the printing apparatus 300.
[0051]
The buffer memory 104 is a memory for temporarily storing image data and the like recorded by the recording unit 106. The recording processing unit 105 is a recording processing unit that converts image data read from the memory card reader 109 into a format optimal for recording processing. The recording unit 106 records image data on a recording medium. The operation unit 107 is an operation unit for operating the recording device 300. The USB communication unit 108 is a USB communication unit for communicating with the memory card reader 109 via USB.
[0052]
The memory card reader 109 receives power supply from Vbus and reads out image data stored in various memory cards. The overcurrent detection unit 110 monitors whether an overcurrent is flowing through Vbus. The switch unit 111 turns ON / OFF the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109 according to the ON / OFF signal 121 output from the USB communication unit 108. Character generator 118 generates character data for printing. The bus 120 connects the control unit 101 and each block.
[0053]
The control signal 121 is a control signal for turning on / off the switch unit 111. The Vbus 122 is a Vbus that is standardized by USB and supplies power to operate USB devices. The differential signals 123 and 124 are differential signals D + and D− standardized by USB, respectively. Reference numeral 125 denotes GND, and the detection signal 126 is a detection output signal output by the overcurrent detection unit.
[0054]
The memory card reader 109 has a USB interface, operates by receiving power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface, controls reading of a memory card such as a CF card, a memory stick, and an SD card. The image data read from 109 is transferred to the recording device 300.
[0055]
When receiving the image data from the memory card reader 109 via the USB communication unit 108, the control unit 101 temporarily stores the image data in the buffer memory 104, simultaneously reads out the image data stored in the buffer memory sequentially, and transfers the image data to the recording processing unit 105. . The recording processing unit 105 decodes the received image data (generally, JPEG data), decomposes the received image data into CMYK color components, and further improves the characteristics of the recording unit 106 and the recording medium so as to improve color reproducibility. Image processing is performed according to the properties (the type of recording paper), and the image is transferred to the recording unit 106. The recording unit 106 records the recording data sent from the recording processing unit 105 on a recording medium.
[0056]
Here, if a memory card that consumes a large amount of power is inserted into the memory card reader 109 or a memory card that fails and an overcurrent flows is inserted, and the overcurrent detection unit 110 determines that an overcurrent occurs, The control unit 101 is notified by the detection output signal 126. Upon receiving the detection output signal 126, the control unit 101 determines that the state is abnormal, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, and outputs an ON / OFF signal of the regulator. 121 is turned off, and the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109, that is, the power supply is stopped.
[0057]
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example in which the recording unit 106 records that the memory card cannot be used in the recording device 300.
[0058]
The control unit 101 generates print character data from the character generator 118, sends it to the recording processing unit 105, and displays it, for example, as shown in FIG. That is, there is an abnormality in the memory card inserted into the memory card reader 109, the user has to remove the memory card, and the operation of the memory card reader 109 has stopped because the supply of Vbus has been stopped. The recording unit 106 records the return method on a recording sheet.
[0059]
After that, when the operator performs an operation for returning the memory card reader 109 recorded on the recording paper, a command is sent again to the USB communication unit 108 to turn the regulator ON / OFF signal 121 ON, and the switch unit 111 is turned on, and the memory card reader 109 is returned.
[0060]
Next, the operation of the recording device 300 will be described.
[0061]
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when the recording device 300 detects an overcurrent of Vbus.
[0062]
First, the control unit 101 monitors the output of the overcurrent detection unit 110, and if an overcurrent is detected in S21, proceeds to step S22, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, and turns off the switch unit 111. That is, Vbus is turned off.
[0063]
In S23, the display unit included in the operation unit 107 displays that the memory card reader 109 has an error, and proceeds to S24, where there is an abnormality in the memory card reader 109, a method of releasing the abnormal state, A message such as a method of returning the memory card reader 109 or the like is created using the character generator 118 as print data for printing on a recording sheet.
[0064]
In S25, the print data is sent to the recording control unit 101, and the recording unit 106 prints the data on recording paper. In S26, when the operator executes a predetermined return operation via the operation unit 107, the process proceeds to S27, in which a command is sent to the USB communication unit 108, the switch unit 111 is turned on, and Vbus is supplied to the memory card reader 109.
[0065]
According to the recording apparatus 300, the overcurrent of the memory card reader 109 is detected with a simple configuration, and when the overcurrent is detected, the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109, that is, the power supply is stopped. And the main body of the recording device 300, and the fact that there is an abnormality in the memory card reader 109, the method of releasing the abnormal state, and the method of returning the memory card reader 109 are recorded on recording paper. The operator can be notified easily.
[0066]
By the way, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, it is necessary to protect the recording device and the memory card reader.
[0067]
According to the present invention, in this case, it is possible to prevent the recording apparatus main body from being affected and to notify a personal computer connected to the recording apparatus that access to the memory card is not possible. It is intended to provide a device.
[0068]
Further, the present invention prevents an unexpected overcurrent from being consumed when a memory card reader is inserted into a memory card reader, and furthermore, the memory card cannot be accessed by a USB communication protocol. It is an object of the present invention to provide a recording apparatus capable of notifying that a personal computer connected to the recording apparatus via a USB interface.
[0069]
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 400 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[0070]
The recording device 400 includes a control unit 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a buffer memory 104, a recording processing unit 105, a recording unit 106, an operation unit 107, a USB host communication unit 108, a memory card reader 109, An overcurrent detection unit 110, a switch unit 111, a USB device communication unit 112, a USB connector 113, and a bus 120 are provided.
[0071]
The control unit 101 controls the entire recording device 400 according to a program stored in the ROM 102. The ROM 102 is a memory that stores a control program for controlling the recording device 400. The RAM 103 is a memory used for performing arithmetic processing and the like necessary for controlling the printing apparatus 400. The buffer memory 104 is a memory for temporarily storing image data and the like recorded by the recording unit 106.
[0072]
The recording processing unit 105 is a recording processing unit that converts image data read from the memory card reader 109 into a format optimal for recording processing. The recording unit 106 records image data on a recording medium. The operation unit 107 is an operation unit for operating the recording device 400.
[0073]
The USB host communication unit 108 is a communication unit that communicates with the memory card reader 109 by USB, and the recording device 400 operates as a USB host with respect to the memory card reader 109, and performs USB communication with the memory card reader 109. Controls communications.
[0074]
The memory card reader 109 receives power supply from Vbus and reads out image data stored in various memory cards. The overcurrent detection unit 110 monitors whether an overcurrent is flowing through Vbus. The switch unit 111 turns ON / OFF the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109 in response to an ON / OFF signal 121 output from the USB communication unit 108.
[0075]
The USB device communication unit 112 is a USB device communication unit for communicating with a PC (personal computer) by USB, and performs data communication with the PC at a timing scheduled by the PC.
[0076]
The USB connector 113 is a USB connector for connecting a USB cable standardized by USB. The bus 120 connects the control unit 101 and each block.
[0077]
The control signal 121 is a control signal for turning on / off the switch unit 111, and the Vbus 122 is standardized by USB and supplies power for operating a USB device. The differential signals 123 and 124 are differential signals D + and D− standardized by USB, respectively, 125 is GND, and the detection output signal 126 is a detection output signal output from the overcurrent detection unit. It is.
[0078]
The Vbus 131 is a Vbus standardized by USB and supplied from a PC, and the USB device communication unit 112 determines whether or not the PC is connected based on the potential of this signal.
[0079]
The differential signals 132 and 133 are differential signals D + and D− standardized by USB, and data is exchanged with the PC through these signal lines. 134 is a GND, a USB cable 141 is a USB cable conforming to the USB standard, and 501 is a PC.
[0080]
The memory card reader 109 has a USB interface, operates by receiving power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface, controls reading of a memory card such as a CF card, a memory stick, and an SD card. Is transferred to the recording device 400. Upon receiving the image data from the memory card reader 109 via the USB host communication unit 108, the control unit 101 temporarily stores the image data in the buffer memory 104, simultaneously reads out the image data stored in the buffer memory sequentially, and transfers the image data to the recording processing unit 105. I do.
[0081]
The recording processing unit 105 decodes the received image data (generally JPEG data), decomposes the received image data into CMYK color components, and improves the characteristics of the recording unit 106 and the recording medium so as to further improve the color reproducibility. (The type of recording paper), and transfers the image to the recording unit 106. The recording unit 106 records the recording data sent from the recording processing unit 105 on a recording medium.
[0082]
Here, when a memory card that consumes a large amount of power is inserted into the memory card reader 109 or a memory card in which a fault occurs and an overcurrent flows is inserted, and the overcurrent detection unit 110 determines that an overcurrent occurs, The control unit 101 is notified by the output signal 126. Upon receiving the detection output signal 126, the control unit 101 determines that the state is abnormal, sends a command to the USB host communication unit 108, and outputs the ON / OFF signal 121 of the regulator. Is turned off, and the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader 109, that is, the power supply is stopped.
[0083]
Thereafter, when the operator performs a predetermined operation via the operation unit 107, a command is sent again to the USB host communication unit 108, the ON / OFF signal 121 of the regulator is turned on, and the switch unit 111 is turned on. Then, the memory card reader 109 is returned.
[0084]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation when an overcurrent of Vbus is detected.
[0085]
First, the control unit 101 monitors the output of the overcurrent detection unit 110, and if an overcurrent is detected in S31, proceeds to step S32, sends a command to the USB communication unit 108, turns off the switch unit 111, that is, Vbus Is turned off.
[0086]
In step S33, the display unit included in the operation unit 107 displays that the memory card reader 109 has an error. In S34, when the operator performs a predetermined return operation via the operation unit 107, the process proceeds to S35, in which a command is sent to the USB communication unit 108, the switch unit 111 is turned on, and Vbus is supplied to the memory card reader 109.
[0087]
Further, the recording device 400 has a USB interface for connecting to a PC (personal computer) 501, receives image data stored in the PC 501 according to an instruction from the PC, and records the image data in the recording unit 106, or An operation of reading data stored in the memory card and transferring the data to the PC 501 is possible.
[0088]
The operation in this case will be described below.
[0089]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example in which an endpoint is set for each function of the recording device 400.
[0090]
First, an endpoint is set for each function of the recording device 400 as shown in FIG. 11 according to the USB standard. Endpoint0 is an endpoint for performing control transfer, Endpoint1 is an endpoint assigned to a printing function of the recording device 400, and the PC 501 transmits image data stored in the PC 501 to the recording device 400. When recording is desired, data is transmitted to Endpoint1. Endpoint2 is an endpoint assigned to the memory card. When the PC 501 wants to read data stored in the memory card, the PC501 reads data from Endpoint2.
[0091]
More specifically, when the recording unit 106 records the image data stored in the PC 501, the driver software for the recording device 400 converts the image data to be recorded in the PC 501 into an optimal image for the recording device 400. Processing is performed and transmitted to the Endpoint 1 of the USB device communication unit of the recording device 400 using an OUT token.
[0092]
The control unit 101 of the printing apparatus 400 sequentially reads out the image data sent to Endpoint 1 of the USB device communication unit, and temporarily stores the image data in the buffer memory 104. At the same time, the image data stored in the buffer memory 104 is sequentially read and transferred to the recording processing unit 105. The recording processing unit 105 transfers the received image data to the recording unit 106, and the recording unit 106 records the transmitted data on a recording medium.
[0093]
Next, when the PC 501 reads data stored in the memory card, the PC 501 specifies and reads a file from the endpoint 2 of the USB device communication unit and transmits a command.
[0094]
The control unit 101 transfers the command to the memory card reader 109 through the USB host communication unit 108, receives the data of the file specified from the memory card radar 109 through the USB host communication unit 108, and stores the data in the buffer memory 104. Accumulate sequentially.
[0095]
Next, the PC 501 issues an IN token to Endpoint2 of the USB device communication unit 112. When the data to be sent to the buffer memory 104 is ready, the control unit 101 sends the data to the USB device communication unit 112 and sends the data to the PC 501. If the data is not yet collected when the IN token is received, NAK is returned and the PC 501 is made to wait until the data is collected. The above operation is repeated until all data of the specified file is transferred.
[0096]
Here, a memory card that consumes a large amount of power is inserted into the memory card reader 109, or a memory card that is broken down and overcurrent flows is inserted, and the overcurrent detection unit 110 determines that an overcurrent has occurred. When receiving an IN token for reading data from the memory card from the PC 501 while the supply of Vbus to the reader 109, that is, the power supply is stopped, the power of the memory card reader 109 is cut off and the memory card is accessed. Since it cannot be performed, the control unit 101 returns STALL for the IN token. By returning STALL to this IN token, the PC 501 is notified that the memory card is inaccessible.
[0097]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the recording apparatus 400.
[0098]
When the IN token is received from the PC 501 to the end point 2, the process advances to S41 to confirm that the memory card reader 109 is operating. That is, it is confirmed that the output of the overcurrent detection unit 110 is in a normal state. If the state is normal, the process proceeds to step S42, and if data for one packet is available in the buffer memory 104, the process proceeds to step S43 to transmit the data for one packet to the PC 501.
[0099]
In S44, by receiving the ACK from the PC 501, it is confirmed that the data has been sent to the PC 501. If the data for one packet has not yet been collected in the buffer memory 104 in S42, a NAK is returned in S45, and the PC 501 is made to wait until the data is collected. In S41, it is detected that the memory card reader 109 is in an abnormal state (that the overcurrent detection unit 110 is passing an overcurrent), and if the supply of Vbus is stopped, in S46, STALL is returned and the memory is returned. The PC 501 is notified that the card is inaccessible.
[0100]
Also, when a command to the memory card or an OUT token for writing data is received, the PC 501 is notified of the inaccessibility of the memory card by returning STALL to the OUT token in the same manner as described above. I do.
[0101]
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the recording apparatus 400.
[0102]
When Endpoint2 receives the OUT token from the PC 501, in S51, the data transmitted following the OUT token is received. Proceeding to S52, the received data is stored in the temporary buffer memory 104. The data stored in the buffer memory 104 is sent to the memory card via the USB host communication unit 108 by another task.
[0103]
In S53, it is confirmed that the memory card reader 109 is operating. That is, it is confirmed that the output of the overcurrent detection unit 110 is in a normal state. If the status is normal, an ACK is returned to the PC 501 to inform that the data has been normally received.
[0104]
If the memory card reader 109 is in an abnormal state in S53 (the overcurrent detection unit has detected an overcurrent and the supply of Vbus is stopped), STALL is returned in S55, and the memory card is inaccessible. Is transmitted to the PC 501.
[0105]
According to the recording device 400, the overcurrent of the memory card reader 109 can be detected with a simple configuration. When the overcurrent is detected, the supply of Vbus (power supply) to the memory card reader 109 is stopped. The PC 501 connected to the recording device 400 via the USB interface can be notified that the memory card is inaccessible by the USB communication protocol.
[0106]
【The invention's effect】
According to the first aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus including a memory card reader and capable of recording image data stored in various memory cards, when an overcurrent flows through the memory card reader, Is detected and the power supply to the memory card reader is stopped, so if a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader are protected, and the recording device main body is protected. This has the effect that it is possible to prevent the influence from being made.
[0107]
According to the invention of claim 2, when the output of the overcurrent detection circuit provided on the power supply Vbus of the memory card reader indicates an overcurrent state, the power supply to the memory card reader is stopped by the switch means. Therefore, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader can be protected so that the recording device body is not affected. To play.
[0108]
According to the third aspect of the invention, when the Vbus voltage monitoring means detects a decrease in the voltage of Vbus, it is determined that an overcurrent state has occurred, the ON / OFF terminal of the regulator is controlled, and the output of the regulator is turned OFF. In other words, since the power supply to the card reader is stopped, if a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader are protected and the recording device body is not affected. This has the effect that it can be prevented from being exerted.
[0109]
According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in a recording apparatus including a memory card reader and capable of recording image data stored in various memory cards, when an overcurrent flows through the memory card reader, Is detected and the power supply to the memory card reader is stopped, so if a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader are protected and the recording device body It has the effect of not affecting the memory card, and also prints out messages on the recording paper, such as information indicating that the memory card reader is in an abnormal state, how to clear the abnormal state, and how to return the memory card reader. In addition, it is possible to easily notify the operator of the abnormality of the memory card reader and the method of recovering the abnormality from the memory card reader.
[0110]
According to the invention described in claim 8, a recording apparatus comprising an interface means for connecting to a PC and a memory card reader, and capable of recording image data stored in various memory cards, If an overcurrent flows into the memory device, the overcurrent is detected, the power supply to the memory card reader is stopped, and a status signal indicating that the memory card is inaccessible is transmitted to the PC connected to the recording device. In this way, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader are protected so that the recording device main body is not affected, and It is possible to notify the PC connected to the recording device that access to the recording device is not possible.
[0111]
According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording apparatus comprising: a means for connecting to a PC via a USB interface; and a memory card reader, and capable of recording image data stored in various memory cards. If an overcurrent flows, the overcurrent is detected, the power supply to the memory card reader is stopped, and when an endpoint indicating the memory card is accessed from a PC connected to the recording device, Since it operates to return STALL, when a memory card that consumes an unexpected overcurrent is inserted into the memory card reader, the recording device and the memory card reader are protected, and the recording device main body is not affected. The effect that the memory card can not be accessed by the USB communication protocol is exhibited. By SB interface an effect that can be notified to the connected recording device PC.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 100 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a circuit diagram showing a specific example of an overcurrent detection unit 110.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 200 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a specific circuit example of a voltage detection unit 116;
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an operation when an overcurrent of Vbus is detected.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus 300 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a recording unit records that a memory card cannot be used in a recording device.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation when the overcurrent of Vbus is detected in the printing apparatus 300;
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a recording apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation when an overcurrent of Vbus is detected.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of setting an endpoint for each function of the recording apparatus.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the recording apparatus.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the recording apparatus.
[Explanation of symbols]
100, 200, 300, 400 ... recording device,
101 ... control unit,
102 ... ROM,
103 ... RAM,
104 ... buffer memory,
105: recording processing unit,
106 ... Recording unit,
107 operation unit,
108: USB host communication unit
109 ... memory card reader,
110 ... overcurrent detection unit
111 ... switch part,
112 ... USB device communication unit,
113 ... USB connector,
116 ... voltage detection unit,
118 ... Character generator,
120 ... bus,
501 ... PC.

Claims (9)

USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
Connection means for connecting the USB interface and the memory card reader;
Receiving means for receiving the data read by the memory card reader through the USB interface;
Means for recording the data received by the receiving means on recording paper;
Current monitoring means for monitoring the Vbus current;
Power supply stopping means for stopping power supply to Vbus connected to the memory card reader in response to an output signal of the current monitoring means;
A recording device comprising: USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
Connection means for connecting the USB interface and the memory card reader;
Data receiving means for receiving data read by the memory card reader through the USB interface;
Recording means for recording the data received by the data receiving means on recording paper;
Current value determining means for determining whether the current of Vbus has exceeded a predetermined value;
Switch means for turning on / off the supply of Vbus;
Switch control means for turning off the switch means in response to an output signal of the current value determination means;
A recording device comprising: USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
Connection means for connecting the USB interface and the memory card reader;
Data receiving means for receiving data read by the memory card reader through the USB interface;
Recording means for recording the data received by the data receiving means on recording paper;
A regulator with a droop function to supply Vbus;
Switching means for turning on / off the output of the regulator with the droop function;
Voltage monitoring means for monitoring the voltage of Vbus;
Control means for controlling the switching means so as to turn off the output of the regulator with the droop function when the voltage monitoring means detects that the voltage of Vbus has become lower than a predetermined voltage;
A recording device comprising: In claim 1,
A recording apparatus, comprising: a notifying unit that notifies a stop of the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader when the supply of Vbus to the memory card reader is stopped according to an output of the current monitoring unit. In claim 2,
A recording apparatus, comprising: a notifying means for notifying that the switching means is turned off when the switching means is turned off in accordance with an output of the current value judging means. In claim 3,
The voltage monitoring means detects that the voltage of the Vbus has become lower than a predetermined voltage, and has a notifying means for notifying that the output of the regulator has been turned off when the output of the regulator has been turned off. Characteristic recording device. USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
Connection means for connecting the USB interface and the memory card reader;
Data receiving means for receiving data read by the memory card reader through the USB interface;
Recording means for recording the data received by the data receiving means on recording paper;
A character generator;
Current monitoring means for monitoring the current of Vbus;
Vbus power supply stopping means for stopping the power supply to the Vbus;
Control means for stopping the supply of Vbus power to the memory card reader in accordance with the output of the current monitoring means, and for printing on the recording paper a method of releasing an abnormal state of the memory card reader and a method of returning the memory card reader. When;
A recording device comprising: USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
First USB interface means for connecting to the memory card reader;
Data receiving means for receiving the data read by the memory card reader through the first USB interface means;
Recording means for recording the data received by the data receiving means on recording paper;
Second interface means for connecting to a personal computer;
Transmitting means for transmitting data received from the memory card reader via the first USB interface means to the personal computer via the second interface means in accordance with a command from the personal computer;
Transmitting means for transmitting data received from the personal computer via the second interface means to the memory card reader via the first USB interface means in accordance with a command from the personal computer;
Current monitoring means for monitoring the Vbus current to the memory card reader;
Power supply stopping means for stopping the power supply of the Vbus;
The power supply of the Vbus to the memory card reader is stopped in accordance with the output of the current monitoring means, and further, when the personal computer accesses the memory card reader, the memory card is read in accordance with the output of the power monitoring means. Notification means for notifying the personal computer that the reader is inaccessible;
A recording device comprising: USB interface;
A memory card reader that operates by power supply from the Vbus of the USB interface and controls reading of data stored in the memory card;
First USB interface means for connecting to the memory card reader;
Data receiving means for receiving the data read by the memory card reader through the first USB interface means;
Recording means for recording the data received by the data receiving means on recording paper;
Said current monitoring means for monitoring the current of Vbus to said memory card reader;
Power supply stopping means for stopping the power supply of the Vbus;
Second USB interface means for connecting to a personal computer;
An endpoint different from that of the recording device is assigned to the memory card reader, the power supply of Vbus to the memory card reader is stopped according to the output of the current monitoring means, and the power supply from the Vbus to the memory card reader is further stopped. Control means for returning STALL when the supply is stopped and the personal computer accesses the endpoint indicating the memory card reader;
A recording device comprising:

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