JP3119448B2 - External device connectable to imaging apparatus, control method therefor, and storage medium - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an external device which can be connected to an imaging device for taking an image, a control method therefor, and a storage medium storing a control program therefor.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a memory having a solid-state memory element is used.
Electronic still cameras capable of recording still images using a card as a recording medium are already commercially available, and electronic notebooks, portable computers, and the like that can use a memory card are also commercially available. When an image is input to a portable computer or the like, an image captured by an electronic still camera is recorded on a memory card, and the card is inserted into the portable computer to read the image.

[0003]

However, in a method of recording an image photographed by such an electronic still camera on a memory card, inserting the card into a portable computer and reading the image, an image pickup method is used. This is inconvenient, as there are many steps to carry out, and an electronic still camera and a portable computer must be carried together. Therefore, the applicant of the present invention has proposed a system in which an imaging device is configured to be detachable from such a portable computer.

[0004] It is an object of the present invention to further improve such a system and improve usability.

[0005]

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an external device connectable to an image pickup apparatus according to claim 1, wherein connection detection means detects whether or not the image pickup apparatus is connected. And, when the connection detection unit detects that the imaging device is connected, reads out an imaging program for controlling the imaging device from a program storage unit and stores it in a predetermined storage unit. It is characterized by comprising control means for enabling data relating to performance and / or specifications of the imaging device to be read from the imaging device, and display means for displaying the data. In the method for controlling an external device connectable to an imaging device according to claim 9, it is detected whether or not the imaging device is connected, and when it is detected that the imaging device is connected, Reading out an imaging program for controlling the imaging device from a program storage unit and storing it in a predetermined storage unit, and enabling data relating to performance and / or specifications of the imaging device to be readable from the imaging device; It is characterized in that it is controlled to be displayed. Further, in a storage medium storing a control program of an external device connectable to the imaging device according to claim 15, a step of detecting whether or not the imaging device is connected, and the imaging device is connected. When it is detected, an imaging program for controlling the imaging device is read from a program storage unit and stored in a predetermined storage unit, and data on performance and / or specifications of the imaging device is transmitted from the imaging device. A control program having a step of enabling reading and a step of displaying the data is stored.

[0006]

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

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 200 denotes an imaging device;
Is an information processing device.

[0008] The image pickup apparatus 200 includes an image pickup means 202, a program storage means 50, an interface 52, and a connector 5.
4

Reference numeral 50 denotes program storage means for storing a program for performing imaging by the imaging means 202, and the stored program is executed by the information processing apparatus 300. Reference numeral 52 denotes an interface with the information processing device 300, and reference numeral 54 denotes a connector that exchanges data signals and control signals with the information processing device 300 and supplies power to the interface 52 and the program storage unit 50.

The configuration of the image pickup means 202 will be described.

Reference numeral 10 denotes a photographing lens, 12 denotes a shutter having an aperture function, 14 denotes an image pickup device that converts an optical image into an electric signal, and 16 denotes an A / D converter that converts an analog output of 14 into a digital signal. Reference numeral 18 denotes a clock circuit that supplies a clock signal and a control signal to the image sensor 14, the A / D converter 16, the memory control circuit 20, and the D / A converter 36.
It is controlled by the memory control circuit 20 and the imaging control circuit 40. 22 is, for example, adaptive discrete cosine transform (ADCT)
An image compression / expansion circuit for compressing / expanding data by
Is an image memory. Reference numeral 20 denotes a memory control circuit that controls the clock circuit 18, the image compression / decompression circuit 22, and the image memory 24. Data of the A / D converter 16 is written to the image memory 24 via the memory control circuit 20. When compressing an image, data is read from the image memory 24, the data is compressed by the image compression / expansion circuit 22, and then the data is written to the image memory 24. If you want to expand the image,
The data is read from the image memory 24, and after the data is expanded by the image compression / expansion circuit 22, the data is written to the image memory 24.

Reference numeral 30 denotes a shutter drive circuit for driving the shutter 12, 32 is a lens drive circuit for driving the focusing lens of the photographing lens 10, 34 is a distance measuring circuit for measuring the distance to the subject, and 36 is the brightness of the subject. A photometric circuit for measurement, 38 is a flash. Reference numeral 40 denotes an imaging control circuit that controls the entire imaging unit.

Reference numeral 42 denotes a power supply circuit, and reference numeral 44 denotes a battery. The power supply circuit 42 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch for switching a block to be energized, and the like. The power supply circuit 42 detects whether or not the battery 44 is mounted, the type of the battery, and the remaining amount of the battery. The DC-DC converter is controlled based on an instruction from the control circuit 40, and a required voltage is supplied to each unit for a required period.

The imaging control circuit 40 drives the focusing lens of the photographing lens 10 by the lens driving circuit 32 according to the measurement result of the distance measuring circuit 34 to control the photographing lens 10 to be in focus. Further, the imaging control circuit 40 determines the opening time of the shutter 12 by the shutter driving circuit 30 based on the measurement result of the photometry circuit 36 so as to obtain the optimum exposure amount.

The configuration of the information processing device 300 will be described.

Reference numeral 60 denotes control means for controlling the entire information processing apparatus 300; 62, a program for operating the control means 60;
A storage unit 64 for storing variables and the like; a liquid crystal display device for displaying necessary characters, images, sounds, and the like in accordance with the execution of the program by the control unit 62; a display unit such as a speaker;
Is an operation means for inputting various operation instructions to the control means 60.

Reference numeral 68 denotes a power supply circuit, and reference numeral 70 denotes a battery. The power supply circuit 68 includes a battery detection circuit, a DC-DC converter, a switch for switching a block to be energized, and the like. The power supply circuit 68 detects whether or not the battery 70 is mounted, the type of the battery, and the remaining amount of the battery. The DC-DC converter is controlled based on the instruction of the means 60, and supplies a necessary voltage to each unit for a necessary period.

Reference numeral 72 denotes an interface with the imaging device 200, and reference numeral 74 denotes a connector that exchanges data signals and control signals with the imaging device 200 and supplies power to the interface 52 and the program storage unit 50.

Reference numeral 76 denotes an interface with the recording medium 90 such as a hard disk or a memory card, or with the communication means 100. A connector 78 exchanges data signals and control signals with the recording medium 90 and supplies power to the recording medium 90. A connector 80 exchanges data signals and control signals with the communication unit 100 and supplies power to the communication unit 100.

Reference numeral 82 denotes the information processing device 30 of the imaging device 200.
This is an imaging device attachment / detachment detection unit that detects the attachment / detachment state to 0 by a method such as mechanical, electrical, or optical.

Reference numeral 90 denotes a recording medium such as a hard disk or a memory card. Reference numeral 92 denotes a connector that exchanges data signals and control signals with the information processing device 300 and receives power supply, 94 denotes an interface with the information processing device 300, and 96 denotes a recording area where an image signal is to be recorded.

A communication unit 100 communicates with an external device or a communication line. Reference numeral 102 denotes a connector that exchanges data signals and control signals with the information processing device 300 and receives power supply, 104 denotes an interface with the information processing device 300, and 106 denotes a communication control circuit that controls communication with an external device. According to the program, communication control, data conversion / inverse conversion, modulation / demodulation, etc., according to the protocol of the layer to be connected are performed. Reference numeral 108 denotes a connector for exchanging data signals and control signals with external devices and communication lines. If 108 is used, communication such as electric transmission can be performed directly with an external device or via a communication line.

The signals 78, 80, 92, 102 and 108 can transmit various signals such as mechanical signals, optical signals and acoustic signals as well as electric signals. The interface 76,
Even if the configuration is such that the connector 78, the connector 80, the recording medium 90, and the communication unit 100 are plural, or the configuration in which the recording medium 90 and / or the communication unit 100 is integrated with the information processing apparatus 300, there is a problem. Needless to say, there is no.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 3, 4 and 5, the operation of the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 2 shows a flowchart of the main routine of this embodiment.

The control means 60 initializes flags, control variables, and the like upon power-on such as battery replacement in the information processing apparatus 300, and executes a control program such as an operating system stored in a part of the area of the storage means 62. Execute (S1). By executing the control program, the control unit 60 sets so as to receive the main switch included in the operation unit 66.

If the main switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S2), the control means 60
It is determined whether the state is a power-off state only for supplying power to the minimum required block or a power-on state for supplying power including the display means 64 (S15). If it is on, the display by the display means 64 is terminated, and the power supply circuit 68 is set to the power off state (S16).
The operation of the switch is waited (S2).

If the main switch included in the operation means 66 is on (S2), the control means 60
It is determined whether the state is in the power-off state or the power-on state (S3). If not, the power supply circuit 68 is set to the power-on state, and the character is displayed by the display means 64. A necessary predetermined display is made by an image such as a number or an icon, and the setting is made so as to accept an input from the operation means 66 (S4).

The control means 60 includes an image pickup device attachment / detachment detection means 8
According to 2, it is determined whether or not the imaging device 200 is connected to the information processing device 300 (S5), and an imaging device connection flag is set (S6) and released (S7) according to the connection state. The imaging device connection flag is stored in an internal register of the control means 60 or a part of the storage means 62.

If the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S8), the control means 60 terminates the display by the display means 64 to perform a predetermined display necessary for imaging (S17). It waits for an instruction to be input by 66.

If a command is input (S18), a predetermined process is executed by the information processing device 300 in accordance with the command (S19).
In step S4, a necessary predetermined display is made by using characters, numerals, icons, or the like, and an input from the operation unit 66 is set, and the operation of a main switch included in the operation unit 66 is awaited (S2).

If the image pickup switch included in the operation means 66 is turned on (S8), the control means 60 performs a predetermined display required for image pickup by the display means 64 (S9).

The predetermined display required for imaging includes, for example, operation modes such as single shooting, continuous shooting, and self-timer shooting of the imaging device 200, distance measurement / photometry information, operation state of the flash 38, and operation of the battery 44. Remaining amount, shutter speed value, aperture value, exposure correction value, gain-up operation state to increase the sensitivity of the image sensor, use state of the image memory 24,
The operating state of the compression / expansion circuit 22, the recording operation state of the recording medium 90, the number of shots, the number of shots, the number of remaining shots, the remaining capacity, and the like are displayed on the display means 64 using images such as characters, numerals, and icons. You. Further, the function of the imaging device 200 is used as an image of a general camera operation unit such as a release button, an electronic dial, and a mode select dial.
It may be displayed on the display means 64. Further, the display means 64
May be selected by a pointing device such as a pen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch panel, and a line-of-sight detection, and may be input to the operation unit 66. The display means 64 displays a finder for performing, in parallel or switching, a through mode display for continuously displaying signals from the image sensor and a monitor mode display for displaying captured images and recorded images. Provided within. Accordingly, it is possible for the information processing apparatus 300 to perform the same imaging operation as that of the camera without feeling uncomfortable.

If the imaging device connection flag has been released (S10), the control means 60 displays a monitor mode on the display means 64 (S14) and waits for the operation of the main switch included in the operation means 66. (S2).

If the imaging device connection flag is set (S10), the control means 60 displays a through mode on the display means 64 (S11), and operates the imaging device 200 from the program storage means 50. The program is read out and stored in the storage unit 6 via the interface 52, the connector 54, the connector 74, and the interface 72.
2 is stored in a part of the area (S12).

The control means 60 reads out a program for operating the image pickup device 200 from the storage means 62 and executes it (S13). By executing the program, the control means 6
0 indicates a predetermined display required for imaging on the display means 64, and the imaging device 2 according to an input command from the operation means 66.
00 are sequentially operated to perform imaging.

When all the imaging operations have been completed, the control means 60 terminates the execution of the imaging mode, and performs a required display on the display means 64 using images such as characters, numerals, icons, and the like. The input is set to be accepted, and the operation of the main switch included in the operation means 66 is waited (S2).

FIG. 3 shows a detailed flowchart of the execution of the imaging program in S13 of FIG. In the description, the exchange of data signals and control signals between the control means 60 and the imaging control circuit 40 is performed by the interface 72,
It is assumed that the processing is performed via the connector 74, the connector 54, and the interface 52.

The control means 60 obtains, from the program for operating the imaging apparatus 200 stored in a part of the area of the storage means 62 in S12 of FIG. 2, data unique to the mounted imaging apparatus 200 (imaging information). ) Is read (S2
1) In accordance with the read imaging information, display necessary for imaging on the display means 64 is performed (S22).

In S9 of FIG. 2, general-purpose items such as the position, color, frame, and the like of each display content of "display required for imaging" have already been displayed. Information unique to the imaging device 200, for example, items and numerical values depending on the specifications and performance of the device are displayed by images such as characters, numerals, and icons.

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 40 to initialize the imaging means 202. In response,
The imaging control circuit 40 initializes flags and variables,
The power supply circuit 42 is turned on, and each unit of the imaging unit 202 is set to an initial state (S23).

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 40 to display a through mode. In response, the imaging control circuit 40 converts the image formed on the imaging device 12 into an A / D signal.
The information is transmitted to the information processing device 300 via the converter 16, the memory control circuit 20, the image memory 24, the memory control circuit 20, the interface 52, and the connector 54 again. Control means 6
No. 0 writes the captured image data into the internal video memory of the display means 64 via the connector 74 and the interface 72, reads out the image data, and displays it as a finder display on the display means 64 (S24).

If the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S25), the control means 60 terminates the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 (S36), and terminates the imaging program execution (S13).

The control means 60 determines whether or not the image data picked up by the image pickup device 200 can be recorded in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S26). If recording is not possible due to no connection or the like, a warning is given by the display means 64 (S
35), the imaging display and the viewfinder display by the display means 64 are terminated (S36), and the execution of the imaging program (S13) is terminated. At the end of the execution of the imaging program, the control unit 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 40 to end the operation of the imaging unit 202, and the imaging control circuit 40 performs necessary termination processing in each unit of the imaging unit 202, and Turn off the output.

The control means 60 has an area where image information can be recorded (S26), and if the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) is set by the operation means 66 (S27), the control means 60 controls the imaging control circuit 40. Orders distance measurement and photometry operation. The imaging control circuit 40 includes a distance measuring circuit 34 and a photometric circuit 36,
Distance measurement and photometry are performed, the focus of the photographing lens 10 is set on the subject, and the shutter time is determined (S28). This distance measurement
Details of the photometric operation will be described later.

The control means 60 operates until the distance measuring / photometric switch (SW1) is set by the operating means 66 and the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operating means 66 (S2).
9) The distance measurement / photometry operation (S28) is repeated.

If the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operation means 66 (S29), the control means 60 stores the image data picked up by the image pickup device 200 into the storage means 62.
Alternatively, it is determined whether or not recording is possible on the recording medium 90 (S3).
0) If the recording cannot be performed because the recordable empty area has been exhausted or the recording medium has been removed, a warning is issued by the display means 64 (S34), and the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is performed. (S25).

If there is a recordable area (S30), the control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 40 to perform an imaging operation. The photographing control circuit 40 executes a photographing operation and writes image data in the image memory 24 (S31). Details of this photographing operation will be described later.

If the next photographing is performed continuously (S32),
Returning to S29, similar processing is repeated.

In the case where continuous shooting is not performed or the next shooting is not performed because the image memory 24 is full (S3).
2) The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 40 to perform a recording operation. The imaging control circuit 40 reads out image data from the image memory 24, and sends the image data to the information processing device 3 via the memory control circuit 20, the interface 52, and the connector 54.
00 is sent out the image data. The control means 60 transmits the received image data to the storage means 62 via the connector 74 and the interface 72, or further to the interface 76,
Writing to the recording medium 90 via the connector 78 (S3
3) Return to S29.

If the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) has been released from the operation means 66, the control means 60 determines (S
27), the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is waited (S25).

FIG. 4 is a detailed flowchart of the distance measurement and photometry in S28 of FIG. The imaging control circuit 40
The distance to the subject is measured by the distance measuring circuit 34, and the measured data is stored in the internal memory of the imaging control circuit 40 (S4).
1) The brightness of the subject is measured by the photometric circuit 36,
The measurement data is stored in the internal memory of the imaging control circuit 40 (S42). It is determined whether or not a flash is necessary based on the photometric value of the photometric circuit 36 (S43). If necessary, a flash flag is set, and the flash 38 is charged (S44).

FIG. 5 is a detailed flowchart of the photographing in S31 of FIG. The imaging control circuit 40 reads the distance data to the subject stored in the internal memory of the imaging control circuit 40, drives the focusing lens of the taking lens 10 by the lens driving circuit 32, and focuses on the subject (S51). ). Further, the shutter 12 is opened by the shutter drive circuit 30 according to the photometric data stored in the internal memory of the imaging control circuit 40 to expose the imaging device 14 (S52, S53). It is determined whether or not the flash 38 is necessary based on the flash flag (S54). If necessary, the flash 38 is caused to emit light (S55).
Waiting for the end of exposure of the image sensor 14 (S56), the shutter 1
2 is closed (S57), the charge signal is read from the image sensor 14, and the data of the captured image is written to the image memory 24 via the A / D converter 16 and the memory control circuit 20.
(S58).

(Other Embodiment) A second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, reference numeral 400 denotes an imaging device.

The imaging device 400 includes an imaging unit 402, a recording medium 426, a program storage unit 450, an interface 452, and a connector 454.

Reference numeral 450 denotes a program storage unit for storing a program for performing imaging by the imaging unit 402. The stored program is stored in the information processing apparatus 300.
Is executed by

The recording medium 426 is composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, or the like, and may be fixed to the imaging device 400 or detachable. The recording medium 426 may be composed of a plurality or a plurality of types, and one or a part may be fixed to the imaging device 400 and the remaining part may be configured to be detachable.

The image pickup means 402 includes 410 to 424 and 4
30 to 446, which correspond to 10 to 24 and 30 to 46 in the first embodiment, and therefore, the description is omitted in the second embodiment.

The operation of the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 4, 5 and 7. The flowchart of the main routine of the second embodiment has been described with reference to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and will not be described here.

FIG. 7 is a detailed flowchart of the execution of the imaging program in S13 of FIG. In the description, the exchange of data signals and control signals between the control means 60 and the imaging control circuit 440 is performed by the interface 7.
2, connector 74, connector 454, interface 4
52.

The control means 60 obtains, from the program for operating the imaging device 400 stored in a part of the area of the storage means 62 in S12 of FIG. 2, data unique to the mounted imaging device 400 (imaging information). ) Is read (S6
1) In accordance with the read imaging information, display necessary for imaging on the display means 64 is performed (S62).

In S9 of FIG. 2, general-purpose items such as the position, color, frame, etc. of each display content of "display required for image pickup" have already been displayed, so that they are mounted here. Items and numerical values that depend on the specifications and performance specific to the imaging device 400 are displayed by images such as characters, numbers, and icons.

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 440 to initialize the imaging means 402. In response to this, the imaging control circuit 440 initializes flags and variables, turns on the power supply circuit 442, and sets each unit of the imaging unit 402 to an initial state (S63).

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 440 to display a through mode. In response, the imaging control circuit 440 converts the image formed on the imaging element 412 via the A / D converter 416, the memory control circuit 420, the image memory 424, the memory control circuit 420, the interface 452, and the connector 454 again. The information is transmitted to the information processing device 300. The control means 60 displays the captured image data via the connector 74 and the interface 72
To the internal video memory of the
It is displayed by the display means 64 as a finder display (S
64).

If the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S65), the control means 60 ends the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 (S76), and ends the imaging program execution (S13).

The control means 60 determines whether or not the image data picked up by the image pickup device 400 can be recorded in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S66). If recording is not possible due to no connection or the like, a warning is given by the display means 64 (S
75), the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 are ended (S76), and the execution of the imaging program (S13) is ended. At the end of the execution of the imaging program, the control unit 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 440 to end the operation of the imaging unit 402, and the imaging control circuit 440 sets the imaging unit 402
The necessary termination processing is performed in each of the components, and the output of the power supply circuit 442 is turned off.

The control means 60 has a recordable area (S66), and if the distance measuring / photometric switch (SW1) is set by the operating means 66 (S67), the distance measuring / photometric control circuit 440 is operated. Command photometric operation. The imaging control circuit 440 performs distance measurement and photometry using the distance measurement circuit 434 and the photometry circuit 436, focuses the photographing lens 410 on the subject, and determines the shutter time (S68).

The control means 60 operates until the distance measuring / photometric switch (SW1) is set by the operating means 66 and the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operating means 66 (S6).
9) The distance measurement / photometry operation (S68) is repeated.

When the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operation means 66 (S69), the control means 60 stores the image data picked up by the image pickup device 400 into the recording medium 42.
It is determined whether or not recording is possible on the recording medium 42 (S70).
If there is no recordable area in 6, it is determined whether or not recording is possible on the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S <b> 77). Alternatively, if recording cannot be performed because the recording medium 90 has been removed, a warning is issued by the display means 64 (S7).
4) Wait for the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 (S65).

If there is a recordable free area in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S77), a medium for recording the captured image data is transferred from the recording medium 426 to the storage means 62.
Alternatively, a setting for changing to the recording medium 90 is made, and the setting change is displayed (S78).

If there is a recordable area on the recording medium 426 (S70), or if there is a recordable area on the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S77, S7)
8) Instruct the imaging control circuit 440 to perform an imaging operation.
The photographing control circuit 440 executes a photographing operation and writes image data in the image memory 424 (S71).

If the next photographing is performed continuously (S72),
Returning to S69, the same processing is repeated.

In the case where continuous shooting is not performed because the continuous shooting is not performed or the image memory 424 is full (S7).
2) The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 440 to perform a recording operation. When the setting of the recording medium is the recording medium 426, the imaging control circuit 440 reads the image data from the image memory 424, and writes the image data to the recording medium 426 via the memory control circuit 420 and the interface 452.
On the other hand, the setting of the recording medium is stored in the storage unit 62 or the recording medium 90.
In the case of, the image data is read from the image memory 424 and sent to the information processing apparatus 300 via the memory control circuit 420, the interface 452, and the connector 454. The control means 60 writes the received image data to the storage means 62 via the connector 74 and the interface 72, or further to the recording medium 90 via the interface 76 and the connector 78 (S73), and returns to S69.

If the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) has been released from the operation means 66 by the operation means 66, the control means 60 determines (S
67), and waits for an operation of an imaging switch included in the operation means 66 (S65).

Distance measurement / photometry in S68 of FIG. 7 and S7
The detailed flow chart of the photographing in 1 has been described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 in the first embodiment, and will not be described here.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, reference numeral 500 denotes an imaging device.

The imaging device 500 includes an imaging means 502, a recording medium 526, an interface 552, and a connector 554.

The recording medium 526 is composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, or the like, and may be fixed to the imaging device 500 or detachable. The recording medium 526 may be composed of a plurality or a plurality of types, and one or a part may be fixed to the imaging device 500 and the remaining part may be configured to be detachable.

The recording medium 526 comprises a recording area 558 and a program storage means 550.

Reference numeral 550 denotes program storage means for storing a program for performing imaging by the imaging means 502, and the stored program is stored in the information processing apparatus 300.
Is executed by

Reference numeral 558 denotes a recording area of the recording medium 526, in which image data of the taken image and information accompanying the imaging are recorded.

Although the recording area 558 and the program storage means 550 have been described as being separated from each other in the recording medium 526, the recording area 558 and the program storage means 550 are integrated, and a part of each of them is stored in an image. Of course, there is no problem if it is allocated to data recording and storage of the imaging program.

The image pickup means 502 includes 510 to 524 and 5
30 to 546, which correspond to 10 to 24 and 30 to 46 in the first embodiment, and therefore, the description is omitted in the third embodiment.

The operation of the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 2, 4, 5 and 9. The flowchart of the main routine of the third embodiment has been described with reference to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and will not be described here.

FIG. 9 is a detailed flowchart of the execution of the imaging program in S13 of FIG. In the description, the exchange of data signals and control signals between the control means 60 and the photographing control circuit 540 is performed by the interface 7.
2, connector 74, connector 554, interface 5
52.

The control means 60 obtains, from the program for operating the imaging apparatus 500 stored in a part of the area of the storage means 62 in S12 of FIG. ) Is read (S8).
1) According to the read imaging information, display necessary for imaging on the display means 64 is performed (S82).

Note that, in S9 of FIG. 2, general-purpose items such as the position, color, frame, etc. of each display content of "display required for image pickup" have already been displayed, so that they are mounted here. Items and numerical values that depend on the specifications and performance specific to the imaging device 500 are displayed by images such as characters, numerals, and icons.

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to initialize the imaging means 502. In response to this, the imaging control circuit 540 initializes flags and variables, turns on the power supply circuit 542, and sets each unit of the imaging unit 502 to an initial state (S83).

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to display a through mode. In response to this, the imaging control circuit 540 converts the image formed on the imaging element 512 through the A / D converter 516, the memory control circuit 520, the image memory 524, the memory control circuit 520, the interface 552, and the connector 554 again. The information is transmitted to the information processing device 300. The control means 60 displays the captured image data via the connector 74 and the interface 72
To the internal video memory of the
It is displayed by the display means 64 as a finder display (S
84).

If the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S85), the control means 60 ends the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 (S96), and ends the imaging program execution (S13).

The control means 60 determines whether or not the image data picked up by the image pickup device 500 can be recorded in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S86). If recording is not possible due to no connection or the like, a warning is given by the display means 64 (S
95), the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 are terminated (S96), and the execution of the imaging program (S13) is terminated. At the end of the execution of the imaging program, the control unit 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to end the operation of the imaging unit 502, and the imaging control circuit 540 sets the imaging unit 502
The necessary termination processing is performed in each of the units, and the output of the power supply circuit 542 is turned off.

The control means 60 has a recordable area (S86), and if the active switch (SW0) is set by the operation means 66 (S100), the finder display is set to the through mode (S101). When the distance measuring / photometric switch (SW1) is set by the operating means 66 (S87), the image capturing control circuit 540 is instructed to perform a distance measuring / photometric operation. The imaging control circuit 540 performs distance measurement and photometry by the distance measurement circuit 534 and the photometry circuit 536,
The focus of the photographing lens 510 is set on the subject, and the shutter time is determined (S88).

In the control means 60, an active switch (SW0) is set by the operation means 66, and the operation means 66
The distance measuring / photometric switch (SW1) is set by the operator, and the distance measuring / photometric operation (S88) is repeated until the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operating means 66 (S89).

When the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operation means 66 (S89), the control means 60 stores the image data picked up by the image pickup device 500 into the recording medium 52.
6 to determine whether or not recording is possible (S90).
If there is no recordable area in the storage unit 6, it is determined whether or not recording is possible on the storage unit 62 or the recording medium 90 (S97). Alternatively, if recording cannot be performed because the recording medium 90 has been removed, a warning is issued by the display means 64 (S9).
4), the viewfinder display is set to the monitor mode (S9)
9) Wait for the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 (S85).

If there is a recordable free area in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S97), a medium for recording the captured image data is transferred from the recording medium 526 to the storage means 62.
Alternatively, a setting for changing the recording medium 90 is made, and the setting change is displayed (S98).

The control means 60 determines whether there is a recordable area in the recording medium 526 (S90) or if there is a recordable area in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S97, S9).
8) Instruct the imaging control circuit 540 to perform an imaging operation.
The photographing control circuit 540 executes a photographing operation and writes image data in the image memory 524 (S91).

If the next photographing is to be performed continuously (S92),
Returning to S89, similar processing is repeated.

If the continuous shooting is not performed or the next shooting is not performed because the image memory 524 is full (S9).
2) The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to perform a recording operation. When the setting of the recording medium is the recording medium 526, the imaging control circuit 540 reads the image data from the image memory 524 and writes the image data to the recording medium 526 via the memory control circuit 520 and the interface 552.
On the other hand, the setting of the recording medium is stored in the storage unit 62 or the recording medium 90.
In the case of, the image data is read from the image memory 524 and sent to the information processing apparatus 300 via the memory control circuit 520, the interface 552, and the connector 554. The control means 60 writes the received image data to the storage means 62 via the connector 74 and the interface 72 or further to the recording medium 90 via the interface 76 and the connector 78 (S93), and returns to S89.

In the control means 60, the setting of the active switch (SW0) is released by the operation means 66 (S10).
0) Or, if the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) is canceled by the operation means 66 (S87), the finder display is set to the monitor mode (S99), and the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 Wait for operation (S8
5).

Distance measurement / photometry in S88 of FIG. 9 and S9
The detailed flow chart of the photographing in 1 has been described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5 in the first embodiment, and will not be described here.

A fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, reference numeral 500 denotes an imaging device.

[0107] The image pickup apparatus 500 includes an image pickup means 502, a recording medium 526, an interface 552, and a connector 554.

The recording medium 526 is composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, or the like, and may be fixed to the imaging device 500 or detachable. The recording medium 526 may be composed of a plurality or a plurality of types, and one or a part may be fixed to the imaging device 500 and the remaining part may be configured to be detachable.

The recording medium 526 comprises a recording area 558 and program storage means 550.

Reference numeral 550 denotes a program storage means for storing a program for performing imaging by the imaging means 502, and the stored program is stored in the information processing apparatus 300.
Is executed by

[0111] Reference numeral 558 denotes a recording area of the recording medium 526, in which image data of the taken image and information accompanying the imaging are recorded.

Although the recording area 558 and the program storage means 550 have been described as being separated from each other in the recording medium 526, the recording area 558 and the program storage means 550 are integrated, and a part of each of them is stored in an image. Of course, there is no problem if it is allocated to data recording and storage of the imaging program.

The image pickup means 502 includes 510 to 524 and 5
30 to 546, which correspond to 10 to 24 and 30 to 46 in the first embodiment, and therefore, the description is omitted in the fourth embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 2, FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and FIG.
The operation of the fourth embodiment will be described. The flowchart of the main routine of the fourth embodiment has been described with reference to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and will not be described here.

FIG. 10 is a detailed flowchart of the execution of the imaging program in S13 of FIG. In the description, the exchange of data signals and control signals between the control means 60 and the photographing control circuit 540 is performed by the interface 7.
2, connector 74, connector 554, interface 5
52.

The control means 60 obtains, from the program for operating the imaging apparatus 500 stored in a part of the area of the storage means 62 in S12 of FIG. 2, data unique to the mounted imaging apparatus 500 (imaging information). ) Is read (S11).
1) According to the read imaging information, display necessary for imaging on the display means 64 is performed (S112).

Note that, in S9 of FIG. 2, general-purpose items such as the position, color, frame, etc. of each display content of "display required for imaging" have already been displayed, so that they are mounted here. Items and numerical values that depend on the specifications and performance specific to the imaging device 500 are displayed by images such as characters, numerals, and icons.

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to initialize the imaging means 502. In response, the imaging control circuit 540 initializes flags and variables, turns on the power supply circuit 542, and sets each unit of the imaging unit 502 to an initial state (S113).

The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to display a through mode. In response to this, the imaging control circuit 540 converts the image formed on the imaging element 512 via the A / D converter 516, the memory control circuit 520, the image memory 524, the memory control circuit 520, the interface 552, and the connector 554 again. The information is transmitted to the information processing device 300. The control means 60 displays the captured image data via the connector 74 and the interface 72
To the internal video memory of the
It is displayed by the display means 64 as a finder display (S
114).

If the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is off (S115), the control means 60 displays the display means 64.
The image pickup display and the viewfinder display are terminated (S12).
6) The imaging program execution (S13) ends.

The control means 60 determines whether or not the image data picked up by the image pickup device 500 can be recorded in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S116). If the recording is not possible because the is not connected, a warning is issued by the display means 64 (S125), the imaging display and the finder display by the display means 64 are terminated (S126), and the imaging program is executed (S126).
13) is ended. At the end of execution of the imaging program, the control unit 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to end the operation of the imaging unit 502, and the imaging control circuit 540 performs necessary termination processing in each unit of the imaging unit 502.
The output of 42 is turned off.

If there is a recordable area (S116) and the active switch (SW0) is set by the operation means 66 (S130), the control means 60 sets the finder display to the through mode (S131). If the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) is set by the operation means 66 (S117), the image capturing control circuit 540 is instructed to perform the distance measurement / photometry operation. The imaging control circuit 540 performs distance measurement and photometry using the distance measurement circuit 534 and the photometry circuit 536, focuses the photographing lens 510 on the subject, and determines the shutter time (S118).

In the control means 60, the active switch (SW0) is set by the operation means 66, and the operation means 66
, The distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) is set, and the distance measurement / photometry operation (S118) is repeated until the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operation means 66 (S119).

If the photographing switch (SW2) is set by the operation means 66 (S119), the control means 60
The image data captured by the imaging device 500 is stored in a recording medium 5.
It is determined whether or not recording is possible in the recording medium 526 (S120). If there is no recordable area in the recording medium 526, it is determined whether or not recording is possible in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S12).
7) If the recording means 62 or the recording medium 90 has run out of recordable free space, or if recording cannot be performed because the recording medium 90 has been removed, a warning is issued by the display means 64 (S124). According to the setting of the finder display mode changeover switch by the operation means 66 (S132),
The through mode display (S133) and the memory mode display (S129) are set, and the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is waited (S115).

The through mode display and the memory mode display may be switched to display only one of them, or both may be displayed according to the setting. Furthermore, while displaying both the through mode display and the memory mode display, one of the selected ones is enlarged, or the selected one is displayed in the upper window,
It may be displayed.

If there is a recordable free area in the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S12)
7) The setting for changing the medium for recording the captured image data from the recording medium 526 to the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 is made, and the setting change is displayed (S128).

If there is a recordable area on the recording medium 526 (S120), or if there is a recordable area on the storage means 62 or the recording medium 90 (S127,
S128), and instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to perform an imaging operation. The photographing control circuit 540 executes a photographing operation and writes image data in the image memory 524 (S121).

If the next photographing is performed continuously (S12)
2) Return to S119 and repeat the same processing.

When the next photographing is not to be continued because the continuous shooting is not performed or the image memory 524 is full (S12).
2) The control means 60 instructs the imaging control circuit 540 to perform a recording operation. When the setting of the recording medium is the recording medium 526, the imaging control circuit 540 reads the image data from the image memory 524 and writes the image data to the recording medium 526 via the memory control circuit 520 and the interface 552.
On the other hand, the setting of the recording medium is stored in the storage unit 62 or the recording medium 90.
In the case of, the image data is read from the image memory 524 and sent to the information processing apparatus 300 via the memory control circuit 520, the interface 552, and the connector 554. The control means 60 writes the received image data to the storage means 62 via the connector 74 and the interface 72, or further to the recording medium 90 via the interface 76 and the connector 78 (S123), and S119
Return to

In the control means 60, the setting of the active switch (SW0) is released by the operation means 66 (S13).
0) Or, if the distance measurement / photometry switch (SW1) is canceled by the operation means 66 (S117), the through mode is set according to the setting of the finder display mode changeover switch by the operation means 66 (S132). Display (S
133), the memory mode display (S129) is set, and the operation of the imaging switch included in the operation means 66 is waited (S115).

The detailed flow chart of the distance measurement and photometry in S118 and the photographing in S121 in FIG.
In the embodiment described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5,
Here, it is omitted.

FIG. 11 shows an embodiment of the image pickup apparatus 200 of the present invention.

In the imaging device 200, the connector 54
On the opposite side, components necessary for imaging by the imaging means 202, for example, a lens 10, a distance measurement circuit 34, a photometry circuit 36, a white balance measurement circuit 46, a flash 38, and the like are arranged. As described above, according to the present invention, when the imaging device 200 is mounted on the information processing device 300, the components necessary for imaging the lens 10, the distance measurement circuit 34, the photometry circuit 36, the white balance measurement circuit 46, the flash 38, and the like. It is characterized in that the elements are arranged so as to be exposed from the information processing device 300.

FIG. 12 shows an embodiment of the image pickup apparatus 500 of the present invention.

In the imaging device 500, the connector 55
The recording medium 526 is disposed on the fourth side, and the imaging unit 502 is disposed on the side opposite to the connector 554. As described above, according to the present invention, when the imaging device 500 is mounted on the information processing device 300, the lens 510, the distance measurement circuit 534, and the photometry circuit 53
6, white balance measurement circuit 546, flash 5
38, the components required for imaging are arranged so as to be exposed from the information processing apparatus 300.

FIGS. 13 and 14 show an embodiment of the imaging system of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows an example in which a portable computer is used as the information processing device 300.

On the display means 64, a display indicating the state and operation method of the imaging means 202 and a finder display in a through mode and / or a memory mode are performed. The imaging means 20 is provided separately from the display means 64 or by the operation means 66 which is the same as the display means 64
Operation 2 is performed to capture an image. The input by the operation means 66 is generally performed by a key or a switch, but the display by the display means 64 is selected by a pointing device such as a pen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch panel, and a line-of-sight detection. 66 may be input.

FIG. 14 shows an example in which a portable radio telephone is used as the information processing device 300.

On the display means 64, a display indicating the state and operation method of the image pickup means 202 and a finder display in a through mode and / or a memory mode are performed. In this example, a display indicating a state and an operation method is displayed in a lower window, and a finder display is displayed in an upper window. A window may be added to these two windows to perform both the through mode display and the memory mode display. Display means 6
The imaging unit 202 is operated by the operation unit 66 that is separate from or the same as the operation unit 4 to capture an image. The input by the operation means 66 is generally performed by a key or a switch, but the display by the display means 64 is selected by a pointing device such as a pen, a mouse, a trackball, a touch panel, and a line-of-sight detection. 66 may be input.

Further, if the state of the information processing apparatus 300 is set to a form suitable for imaging, the imaging switch is set, and if the state is set to a form suitable for communication such as telephone, the imaging switch is released. You may. For example, FIG.
In this case, if the opening angle of the information processing device 300 is considerably larger than 90 degrees and the mode is set so that it is easy to talk to the face, it is determined that the information processing device 300 is used for a telephone, and the imaging switch is released. On the other hand, if the opening angle of the information processing device 300 is about 90 degrees and the image is set to be easily picked up while looking at the viewfinder display, it is determined to be used for image pickup, and the image pickup switch is set. The imaging switch may be arranged, for example, around the hinge portion of the information processing device 300 so that setting and release are performed according to the opening angle. By doing so, the present invention can be used more effectively.

The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to FIGS. 1, 6 and 8, but the recording medium 90 and the recording medium 526 are composed of a semiconductor memory, a magnetic disk, and a micro DA.
Of course, there is no problem even if it is constituted by any of T, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk and the like.

There is no problem if the recording medium 90 and the recording medium 526 are composite media in which a semiconductor memory and a magnetic disk are integrated. There is no problem if the semiconductor memory portion is separated from the composite medium and can be arbitrarily connected to the composite medium body. Conversely, there is no problem even if the magnetic disk portion is separated from the composite medium and can be arbitrarily connected to the composite medium body. Of course, composite media
Not only semiconductor memory, magnetic disk, etc.
There is no problem even if the configuration is a combination of two or more including an AT, a magneto-optical disk, an optical disk, and the like.

In the description of the embodiment, the recording medium 9
Although 0 has been described as being separated from the information processing apparatus main body and can be arbitrarily connected, it is a matter of course that there is no problem if it is fixed to the information processing apparatus main body.

Then, the recording medium 90 is stored in the information processing apparatus.
There is no problem even if two or more connections are made. There is no problem even if one or more recording media 90 are fixed to the information processing apparatus main body, and one or more recording media 90 can be arbitrarily connected.

Further, the communication means 100 has been described as being separated from the information processing apparatus main body and can be arbitrarily connected. However, the communication means 100 may be fixed to the information processing apparatus main body without any problem.

There is no problem even if two or more communication means 100 are connected to the information processing apparatus. There is no problem even if one or more communication units 100 are fixed to the information processing apparatus main body and one or more communication units 100 can be arbitrarily connected.

Note that the imaging device 200 is
2. It has been described that the program storage unit 50 stores a program for performing image capturing by the image capturing unit 202. However, a configuration including a recording unit and a program storage unit for storing a program for performing recording is also described. no problem. In this case, when the program for performing the imaging is read out from the program storage unit 50, the program for performing the recording is also read out, and the information processing device 30 is used together.
0, and imaging and recording may be performed. The same applies to the imaging device 400 and the imaging device 500.

Further, the operation and display functions of the information processing device 300 can be changed according to the mounted imaging device, and even if an imaging device with better performance and specifications is required, only a new imaging device is required. Can be taken, and an image can be taken without replacing the information processing device 300 of the main body. Different imaging functions such as lens zoom function, flash function, shutter function, distance measurement / photometry function, color reproducibility, resolution, dynamic range, shooting speed, capacity of image memory 24, function of compression / expansion circuit 22, battery capacity, etc. Even when the device is mounted, the operation / display function of the information processing device 300 may be changed according to the program corresponding to each imaging device stored in the program storage unit.

As can be easily understood from the above description,
According to the present embodiment, an imaging device having an imaging unit and a program storage unit can be attached to and detached from an information processing apparatus having an operation unit, a display unit, a storage unit, a control unit, and an imaging device attachment / detachment detection unit. It is possible to provide an image processing system which is excellent in performance and can easily perform a shooting operation.

Further, by providing a function of setting display contents of the display means in accordance with the detection output of the image pickup apparatus attachment / detachment detection means, it is possible to provide an image processing system which is excellent in portability and easy to perform a photographing operation. It becomes possible.

Further, the detection output of the image pickup device attachment / detachment detection means is a signal indicating disconnection of the image pickup device, and the function of setting display contents of the display means is a function of prohibiting the setting of displaying an image being picked up by the image pickup means. Accordingly, it is possible to provide an image processing system that is excellent in portability and easy to perform a shooting operation.

[0153] Since the information processing apparatus having the operation means, the display means, the storage means, and the control means can be photographed with the imaging apparatus having the imaging means and the program storage means mounted thereon, it is excellent in portability. It is possible to provide an image processing system that can easily perform a shooting operation.

The output image of the image pickup means is displayed on the display means during execution of the image pickup operation by the image pickup means, and the output image of the storage means is displayed on the display means while the image pickup operation of the image pickup means is stopped. It is possible to provide an image processing system that is excellent and can easily perform a shooting operation.

Further, the output image of the image pickup means is displayed on the display means while the image pickup means is executing the photographing operation, and the output image of the image pickup means and / or the output image of the storage means are automatically or continuously displayed while the photographing operation of the image pickup means is stopped. By displaying the image on the display unit in response to the input from the operation unit, it is possible to provide an image processing system that is excellent in portability and can easily perform a shooting operation.

When the image pickup apparatus is mounted on the information processing apparatus, the function part used for image pickup by the image pickup means is located at a position exposed from the information processing apparatus. It is possible to provide an image processing system that is easy to operate.

[0157]

According to the present invention, when an imaging device is connected to an external device connectable to the imaging device, control of the imaging device is performed by reading a program for controlling the connected imaging device. Is performed, and data relating to the performance and / or specifications of the connected imaging device can be confirmed by display.

[Brief description of the drawings]

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

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a main routine of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of an imaging program execution routine according to the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a distance measurement / photometry routine of the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart of a photographing routine according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a configuration block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an imaging program execution routine according to a second embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a configuration block diagram of a third embodiment and a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of an imaging program execution routine according to a third embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart of an imaging program execution routine according to a fourth embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an imaging device 200 of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an imaging device 500 according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the imaging system of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an embodiment of the imaging system of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 10 photographing lens 12 shutter 14 image sensor 16 A / D converter 18 clock circuit 20 memory control circuit 22 image compression / decompression circuit 24 image memory 30 shutter drive circuit 32 lens drive circuit 34 distance measurement circuit 36 photometry circuit 38 flash 40 system control circuit 42 power supply circuit 44 battery 46 white balance measurement circuit 50 program storage means 52 interface 54 connector 60 control means 62 storage means 64 display means 66 operation means 68 power supply circuit 70 power supply 72 interface 74 connector 76 interface 78 connector 80 connector 82 imaging device attachment / detachment Detecting means 90 Recording medium 92 Connector 94 Interface 96 Recording area 100 Communication means 102 Connector 104 Interface 106 Communication control circuit 108 Cutter 200 imaging device 202 imaging means 300 information processing device 400 imaging device 402 imaging means 410 imaging lens 412 shutter 414 imaging device 416 A / D converter 418 clock circuit 420 memory control circuit 422 image compression / decompression circuit 424 image memory 426 recording medium 430 Shutter drive circuit 432 Lens drive circuit 434 Distance measurement circuit 436 Photometry circuit 438 Flash 440 System control circuit 442 Power supply circuit 444 Battery 446 White balance measurement circuit 450 Program storage means 452 Interface 454 Connector 500 Image pickup device 502 Image pickup means 530 Shutter drive circuit 532 Lens drive circuit 534 Distance measurement circuit 536 Photometry circuit 538 Flash 540 System control circuit 542 Power supply circuit 544 Battery 54 White balance measuring circuit 550 program storage unit 552 interface 554 Connector 556 interfaces 558 recording area

Claims (20)

(57) [Claims] An external device connectable to an imaging device, wherein connection detection means for detecting whether or not the imaging device is connected, and the imaging device is connected by the connection detection means. When detected, an imaging program for controlling the imaging device is read from a program storage unit and stored in a predetermined storage unit.
An external device, comprising: a control unit that enables data relating to performance and / or specifications of the imaging device to be read from the imaging device; and a display unit that displays the data. 2. The external device according to claim 1, further comprising a slot into which at least a part of the imaging device is inserted. 3. The external device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays an image sent from the imaging device. 4. The external device according to claim 3, wherein the display means performs a window-like display, and displays image information sent from the imaging device in the window. 5. The external device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays a picture when the detection unit detects that the imaging device is connected. apparatus. 6. The external device according to claim 5, wherein the picture display is in a form related to a camera. 7. The external device according to claim 1, wherein the program storage unit is built in the imaging device. 8. The external device according to claim 1, further comprising an operation unit for executing imaging by the imaging device. 9. A method for controlling an external device connectable to an imaging device, comprising: detecting whether the imaging device is connected; and detecting that the imaging device is connected, An imaging program for controlling the imaging device is read from a program storage unit and stored in a predetermined storage unit, and data on performance and / or specifications of the imaging device can be read from the imaging device.
A control method comprising controlling the display of the data. 10. The control method according to claim 9, further comprising displaying an image sent from the imaging device. 11. The control method according to claim 10, wherein a window-like display is performed, and image information sent from the imaging device is displayed in the window. 12. The control method according to claim 9, wherein a picture is displayed when it is detected that the imaging device is connected. 13. The image display according to claim 12, wherein
A control method characterized in that it is related to a camera. 14. The external device according to claim 9, wherein the imaging device is further operated by operating an operation unit. 15. A storage medium storing a control program of an external device connectable to an imaging device, wherein the step of detecting whether or not the imaging device is connected, and wherein the imaging device is connected Is detected, an imaging program for controlling the imaging device is read from a program storage unit and stored in a predetermined storage unit, and data relating to performance and / or specifications of the imaging device is read from the imaging device. Enabling steps;
A control program having a step of displaying the data. 16. The storage medium according to claim 15, wherein the control program further comprises a step of displaying an image sent from the imaging device. 17. The storage medium according to claim 16, wherein the control program further includes a step of performing a window-like display and displaying image information sent from the imaging device in the window. 18. The storage according to claim 15, wherein the control program further includes a step of displaying a picture when it is detected that the imaging device is connected. Medium. 19. The image display according to claim 18, wherein:
A storage medium characterized in that it is related to a camera. 20. The storage medium according to claim 15, wherein the control program further includes a step of executing imaging by the imaging device by operating an operation unit.