JP3524357B2 - Data processing device, printing device, communication processing method, and computer-readable 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 a data processing device, a printing device, a communication processing method, and a computer-readable storage medium that secure a plurality of channels with a printing device and perform bidirectional communication. Is.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a printing system composed of a host and a printer, data communication between the host and the printer is further performed by IE.
Bidirectional communication based on EE284.4, multiple channels are prepared, one is for sending print data, one is for monitoring the current status of the printer, and the number of credits that can be sent and received between the host and printer for each channel Tell me (packets that you can send = the number of packets that the other party can receive),
A system for controlling communication between a host and a printer has been proposed.

[0003]

However, according to the above system, one side sends a credit request to the other and sends a credit request to the other side, and the other side transmits data until a valid credit number is returned. I couldn't.

Therefore, it has been necessary to repeatedly request the notification of the credit request until the number of valid credits is returned from the other. The side receiving the credit request must suspend the work to be done and respond, and the original work will be delayed.

Further, by repeatedly issuing credit requests until valid credits are returned, useless credit requests increase traffic.

Further, when an error such as paper jam or ink shortage occurs in the printer, the printer does not start printing unless the cause of the error is removed. It does not increase after receiving it. Credit requests from the host when an error has occurred in the printer have caused many problems, such as causing unnecessary traffic to increase.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a first object of the present invention is to enable a data processing device and a printing device to secure a plurality of channels and to perform bidirectional communication. In such a printing system, the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer to and from the printing apparatus via any one channel is monitored, and if it is determined that the number of packets to be monitored does not exist, another channel is monitored. If it is determined whether the state of the printing device obtained through the, is normal, and if it is determined that the state of the printing device is normal,
By controlling the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the printing device for the number of packets that can be transmitted, wasteful traffic on the communication medium is reduced and the efficiency of data processing between the printing device and the data processing device is reduced. (EN) Provided are a data processing device, a communication processing method, and a computer-readable storage medium capable of preventing and reducing the overhead of a data transfer source accompanying a credit request. A second object of the present invention is to transfer packets between the data processing device and the printing device via the any one channel in the printing system in which the data processing device and the printing device secure a plurality of channels and are capable of bidirectional communication. The number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with is monitored, and when it is determined that the number of packets to be monitored is not present, it is determined whether the state of the data processing device acquired through another channel is normal, When it is determined that the state of the data processing device is normal, by controlling the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the data processing device for the number of packets that can be transmitted, wasteful traffic on the communication medium is reduced, Prevents a decrease in data processing efficiency between the printing device and the data processing device, and reduces the overhead of the data transfer source due to the credit request. It is to provide a printing apparatus and a communication processing method, and computer readable storage medium can.

[0008]

A first invention according to the present invention is a data processing device which secures a plurality of channels with a printing device to perform bidirectional communication, and any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates as a result of packet transfer to and from the printing apparatus via the printer, and first judging means for judging whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means. If the first determination unit determines that the number of packets does not exist, a second determination unit that determines whether or not the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal; and the printing device. When the second determining unit determines that the state is normal, the control unit controls the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the printing apparatus for the number of packets that can be transmitted.

A second invention according to the present invention is a printing apparatus which secures a plurality of channels with a data processing apparatus to perform bidirectional communication, and the data processing apparatus via any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates as a result of packet transfer between the first and second communication means, first determining means for determining whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and If the first determining means determines that there is not, the second determining means for determining whether the state of the data processing device acquired through another channel is normal, and the state of the data processing device are When the second determination unit determines that the packet is normal, the control unit controls the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the data processing device for the number of packets that can be transmitted. That.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the control means is arranged so that when the state of the data processing device is normal.
If the determination means determines, the request request is issued after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses.

A fourth invention according to the present invention has a predicting means for predicting whether or not the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means is exhausted, and the control means is adapted to predict when the packet number is exhausted. In this case, the data transfer speed from the printing device to the data processing device is changed to a low speed.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is a communication processing method in a printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured and a data processing apparatus and a printing apparatus can perform bidirectional communication, and any one channel is used. A monitoring step of monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates as the packets are transferred between the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, and a first step of determining whether or not there is the number of packets to be monitored in the monitoring step. And a second step of determining whether the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal when it is determined in the first determining step that the number of packets does not exist.
And the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted from the data processing device to the printing device when it is determined in the second determination process that the state of the printing device is normal. And a control step for controlling.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when it is determined in the second determination step that the state of the printing device is normal, after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses, It is characterized in that the request request is issued.

A seventh invention according to the present invention has a prediction step of predicting whether there is a packet number to be monitored in the monitoring step, and the control step predicts when the packet number is exhausted. In this case, the data transfer speed from the data processing device to the printing device is changed to a low speed.

In an eighth aspect of the present invention, the request request issued by the control step can be transmitted by delaying the response timing to the request request until the number of packets becomes 1 or more. And a notification step of notifying the number of different packets.

A ninth aspect of the present invention is a communication processing method in a printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured and a data processing device and a printing device can perform bidirectional communication, and any one channel is used. A monitoring step of monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates as the packets are transferred between the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus, and a first step of determining whether or not there is the number of packets to be monitored in the monitoring step. And a second determining step for determining whether or not the state of the data processing device acquired through another channel is normal when it is determined in the first determining step that the number of packets does not exist. When the second determination step determines that the state of the data processing device is normal, the requesting device requests the number of packets that can be transmitted from the printing device to the data processing device. Characterized by a control step of controlling the timing of issuing.

In a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when the second determination step determines that the state of the data processing device is normal, after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. And issuing the request request.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention is a recording medium readable by a computer in which a program for controlling a data processing device which secures a plurality of channels with a printing device and controls bidirectional communication is stored. In the monitoring step, the program monitors the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with packet transfer between the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus via any one channel. A first determination step of determining whether there is a packet number to be monitored, and a state of the printing device acquired via another channel when it is determined that the packet number is not present in the first determination step. And the number of packets that can be transmitted when it is determined in the second determination step that the state of the printing apparatus is normal. Characterized in that to execute a control step of controlling the timing of issuing a demand request which requests the printing apparatus to the data processing device.

In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the control step, when it is determined in the second determination step that the state of the printing device is normal, after a predetermined delay time that has been set has elapsed, It is characterized in that the request request is issued. A thirteenth invention according to the present invention is a data processing device which secures a plurality of channels with a printing device and performs bidirectional communication, and which communicates with the printing device via any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with packet transfer; and first determining means for judging whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means.
When the first determination unit determines that the number of packets does not exist, a second determination unit that determines whether or not the state of the printing device acquired via another channel is normal; When the second determination unit determines that the state is normal, the second determination unit has a request unit that requests the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing apparatus.
A fourteenth invention according to the present invention is a printing device which secures a plurality of channels with a data processing device and performs bidirectional communication, wherein the data processing device communicates with the data processing device via any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer, first judging means for judging whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and if there is no packet number, If the first determination means makes a determination, the second determination means for determining whether the state of the data processing device acquired via another channel is normal, and the state of the data processing device is normal. And a requesting means for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the data processing device, when the second determining means determines.

[0020]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the arrangement of a printing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, reference numeral 1 is an information processing apparatus (host) such as a personal computer, which is a video memory (VRA).
M) 3, display unit (CRT) 4, keyboard (KBD)
5, a pointing device (PD) 6, a disk controller unit 7, a hard disk device (HD) 9, a connection unit 10, a CPU 11, a RAM 12, and a ROM 13 as main constituent elements, and these constituent elements are mutually connected via a system bus 2. It is connected. The CPU 11 controls the entire information processing apparatus 1 according to a program shown in a flowchart such as FIG. 2 described later.

Reference numeral 12 denotes a RAM, which stores a program as a main memory of the CPU 11 and has a temporary storage area for various data used as a work data area when the CPU 11 executes control.

A disk controller 7 controls access to an external storage device such as a hard disk device (HD) 9 or a floppy disk (FD) 8 which is an external memory.

The hard disk device (HD) 9 and the floppy disk (FD) 8 are devices for recording and reading data in and from a magnetic storage medium on the disk, and are downloaded to various graphic data and document data, and further to the ROM 13. Host 1 boot program to be executed, CP
An operating system (OS) which is a control program of U11, various application programs, a printer control command (print data) generation program (printer driver), a printing system program having a page control function, and the like are stored.

Further, the storage medium is not limited to a hard disk device or a floppy disk, but a magnetic tape or a CD.
It may be a ROM, an IC memory card, a DVD or the like.

Reference numeral 13 denotes a ROM which serves as an internal memory, and stores various data and programs like the hard disk device (HD) 9 and the floppy disk (FD) 8 described above.

Reference numeral 4 denotes a display unit for displaying various graphics such as bitmap data, command images of command menus, and operator's messages on the screen in the information processing apparatus 1, and is composed of a CRT (cathode ray tube) or liquid crystal. Has been done.

A video memory 3 stores data to be displayed on the display unit 4. The keyboard 5 and the pointing device 6 are both operated by an operator to input various data and commands, a print mode, or the like. Further, by selecting a command image or the like of the command menu displayed on the screen of the display unit 3 with the keyboard 5 and the pointing device 6, it is possible to instruct execution of the command or a print mode.

A connection unit 10 is connected to the connection unit 17 of the printer 15 via a predetermined bidirectional interface 14 such as a Centronics interface, a network interface or an infrared interface, and transmits a printer control command (print data). For example, the communication control processing with the printer device 15 described later is executed.

Reference numeral 15 denotes a printer device, which has a connection unit 17, a printing unit (printer engine) 18, an operation unit 19, an external memory 20, a CPU 21, a RAM 22, and a ROM 23, which will be described later in detail, as main components, and these components are configured. The elements are connected to each other via a system bus 16.

Reference numeral 21 denotes a printer CPU (CPU),
It controls the entire printer device 15. CPU2
1 transmits an image signal to the printing unit 18 based on a printer control command (print data) received by the connection unit 17, based on a control program stored in the ROM 23 or the external memory 20 described later.

Reference numeral 22 denotes a RAM, which is provided as a main memory of the CPU 21 with a temporary storage area for various data used as a work data area when the CPU 21 executes control. An external memory 20 is also connected as an option and stores font data, emulation program-form data and the like.

Reference numeral 23 is a ROM as an internal memory of the printer.
Like the external memory, it stores various data, a printer control program for controlling the printer device, and the like.

A printing unit (printer engine) 18 is controlled by the CPU 21, receives an image signal output from the control program stored in the ROM 23 or the external memory 20 via the system bus, and performs actual printing. . The operation unit 19 includes an input unit such as an operation panel and operation switches, a display unit such as an LED and a liquid crystal panel, and receives an operator's operation and displays a result. The operator can instruct and confirm the setting of the printer device 15 through the operation unit 19.

Reference numeral 17 denotes a connection unit, which is connected to the connection unit 10 of the information processing apparatus 1 through the above-described bidirectional interface 14 to receive a printer control command (print data) and notify the printer internal state and the like. It is also possible to do so.

The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

A printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured on a predetermined communication medium configured as described above and a data processing apparatus and a printing apparatus can bidirectionally communicate with each other, and a host via any one channel 1 and the printer 15 monitor means for monitoring the number of mutually transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer (CPU 11 is ROM 13
Alternatively, a control program stored in a memory resource (not shown) is executed to perform monitoring processing, and a first determination means (CPU 11 in the ROM 13 or not shown) for determining whether or not the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means is "0". When the control program stored in the memory resource is executed to perform the determination processing), the first determination unit causes the number of packets to be “0”.
If it is determined that the print processing state acquired from the printer 15 via another channel is normal, the second determination unit (the CPU 11 executes the control program stored in the ROM 13 or a memory resource (not shown)). When the second determination unit determines that the print processing state is normal, the host 1 controls the timing of issuing a request request for the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printer 15 when the second processing unit determines that the print processing state is normal. Since the host 1 side has a control means (the CPU 11 executes and controls a control program stored in the ROM 13 or a memory resource (not shown)), the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing apparatus changes to "0". Even if an error occurs, the overhead caused by repeated request requests from the data transfer device is prevented, and Without lowering the physical efficiency, and can reduce unnecessary traffic from the data processing apparatus that uses a communication medium.

When the CPU 11 determines that the print processing state is normal, the host 1 issues a request request for the number of transmittable packets to the printer 15 after a predetermined delay time has elapsed. The timing for issuing the request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted can be delayed, and the printing process on the printer 15 side proceeds by that much, and the probability that a credit for receiving packets can be received from the data processing device on the memory resource is increased.

Further, the predicting means (CPU 11) for predicting whether or not the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means becomes "0".
Has a prediction program by executing a control program stored in the ROM 13 or a memory resource (not shown).
When the U11 predicts that the number of packets will be "0", it changes the data transfer rate from the host 1 to the printer 15 to a low speed, so that the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printer 15 transits to "0". To reduce overhead and prevent overhead due to repeated request requests from the host 1, without reducing data processing efficiency and reducing unnecessary traffic from the data processing device side using the communication medium. You can Also, CPU
In response to a request for the number of packets that can be transmitted and is issued from 11, the notification unit delays and notifies the response timing to the request for the number of packets until the number of packets that can be transmitted by the printing apparatus becomes 1 or more ( CPU21
Has a control program stored in the ROM 23 or a memory resource (not shown) and notifies the same. Therefore, in response to a packet number request issued by the host 1, the printer 15 always receives a valid credit for the next packet transfer. can do.

Further, the printing system is a printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured on a predetermined communication medium so that the data processing device and the printing device can perform bidirectional communication, and printing is performed with the data processing device via any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the number of mutually transmittable packets that fluctuates with the transfer of packets to and from the device (the CPU 21 executes a control program stored in the ROM 23 or a memory resource (not shown) to perform monitoring processing); First judging means (CP) for judging whether or not the number of packets monitored by the means is "0"
U21 executes a control program stored in the ROM 23 or a memory resource (not shown) to perform determination processing), and the first determination means determines that the number of packets is “0”, the data processing device Second determining means (CPU 21 executes a control program stored in the ROM 23 or a memory resource (not shown) to perform determination processing) for determining whether the data processing state obtained from the other channel is normal. When the second determination means determines that the data processing state is normal, the control means (C) controls the timing of issuing a request request for the number of transmittable packets from the printing device to the data processing device.
PU21 has a control program stored in a ROM23 or a memory resource (not shown) for control on the printing apparatus side. Therefore, the number of packets that can be transmitted to the host 1 changes to "0". Even printer 1
It is possible to prevent the overhead caused by the repeated request requests from No. 5 and to reduce the wasteful traffic from the printer 15 side using the communication medium without lowering the print processing efficiency.

When the CPU 21 determines that the data processing state is normal, the CPU 21 sends a request for the number of packets that can be transmitted from the printing device to the data processing device after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. Since the issuance is performed, the issuance request timing of the request requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted can be delayed, the data processing on the side of the host 1 progresses accordingly, and the probability that a credit for receiving a packet from the printer 15 can be received on the memory resource is increased. .

Further, a predicting means (CPU) for predicting whether or not the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means becomes "0".
21 has a ROM 23 or a control program stored in a memory resource (not shown) for prediction)
When the U21 predicts that the number of packets will be "0", it changes the data transfer rate from the printer 15 to the host 1 to a low speed, so that the number of packets that can be transmitted to the host 1 transits to "0". Printer 15
Therefore, it is possible to prevent the overhead due to the repeated request requests from occurring, reduce the print processing efficiency, and reduce unnecessary traffic from the printing device side using the communication medium.

Further, in response to the request for the number of transmittable packets issued from the CPU 21, the host 1 delays the response timing to the request for requesting the number of packets until at least the number of transmittable packets becomes 1 or more, and notifies it. Since the notification means (the CPU 11 executes and notifies the control program stored in the ROM 13 or a memory resource (not shown)), a credit effective for the next packet transfer is always issued in response to the packet number request issued by the printer 15 side. Can be received from the host 1. 2 to 10 are diagrams showing transition states of data communication between the host 1 and the printer 15 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 2 shows that the transmittable data amount of the host 1 is “4” immediately before data transfer. This corresponds to the state in which the receivable data amount of the printer is "4". Further, in FIG. 3, data “1” is sent from the host 1 after the start of data transfer, the transmittable data amount of the host 1 becomes “3”, and the receivable data amount of the printer 15 becomes “4”. Corresponding to the state. Furthermore, FIG.
Data is sent from the host 1 after the start of data transfer as a “1” packet, the transmittable data of the host 1 becomes “3”, the receivable data of the printer 15 becomes “3”, and the printer 15 receives the received data. It corresponds to the state where printing is started.

Further, FIG. 5 corresponds to a state in which the amount of transmittable data of the host 1 becomes "0" and the amount of receivable data of the printer 15 becomes "0" by the data transfer. Figure 6
Indicates that the host 1 issues a data transmission possible data notification request (credit request) to the printer 15. Further, FIG.
In response to the data transmission possible data notification request, the printer 15 returns the possible reception data amount “0” as a credit request response.

Further, FIG. 8 corresponds to a state in which the host 1 has the transmittable data amount "0", the printer 15 prints the received data, and the receivable data amount has become "1". In FIG. 9, the host 1 has a transmittable data amount “0”,
The printer 15 prints the received data, the receivable data amount becomes "1", and this corresponds to the state in which the host 1 issues the transmittable data amount notification request. In FIG. 10, the host 1 has the transmittable data amount “0”, the printer 15 prints the received data, and the receivable data amount is “1”. The printer 15 indicates that the receivable data amount is "1" as a credit request response.

Data communication processing between the host 1 and the printer 15 will be described below with reference to FIGS. 2 to 10, 11 and 12. The data transmission direction is from the host 1 to the printer 15.

Further, a data channel for transmitting / receiving print data and a status channel for monitoring are secured between the host and the printer, and the host 1 is connected through the monitoring channel.
Can know that an error has occurred in the printer 15, for example, a paper jam or an ink shortage has occurred.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the first data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (7) indicate each step.

Before the start of data transmission between the host 1 and the printer 15, as shown in FIG. 2, the amount of data that can be transmitted by the host 1 is "4" and the amount of data that the printer 15 can receive is " 4 ”.

First, in step (1), RA of host 1
The credit stored in M12 is checked to determine whether or not a valid value other than "0" is set. If it is determined that the value is set, the data is transferred to the bidirectional interface 14 in step (2). Via the host 1 to the printer 15 as shown in FIG.

As a result, the data transmission / reception relationship between the host 1 and the printer 15 is such that, as shown in FIG. 4, one packet of data is stored in the buffer secured in the RAM 22 of the printer 15 from the state shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 5, printing by the printing unit 18 is started based on the received data.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the credit obtained in step (1) is "0", it is determined in step (5) using the monitor channel whether the printer 15 is in a normal state, and the printer 15 If it is determined that the credit card is normal, a credit request is issued to the printer 15 in step (6) as shown in FIG. If it is determined in step (5) that the printer 15 is not in a normal state, it is not expected that the number of packets that the printer 15 can receive will increase, so do not issue a credit request.
Return to step (1).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5) that the printer 15 is in a normal state, a credit request is issued to the printer 15 in step (6), and in step (7), step (6) The value returned in step 1 is stored as a new credit number in the RAM 12 of the host 1 and updated, and the process returns to step (1).

On the other hand, after the data is transmitted in step (2), in step (3), the amount of data transmitted in step (2) is reflected in the number of credits stored in the RAM 12, and is stored in the RAM 12 and updated. To do.

For example, when the host 1 sends the credit "1", the credit is subtracted from the credit "1" held in the RAM 12 by the host 1.

Next, in step (4), it is judged that the data transfer is completed. If it is judged that the data transfer is not completed, the process returns to step (1), and if there is no more data, the data processing is completed.

By repeating steps (1) to (4) in this manner, the number of packets that can be transmitted by the host 1 becomes "0" as shown in FIG.
The number of packets that can be received by 5 becomes "0". At this time, as shown in FIG. 6, even if the host 1 issues a transmittable credit notification request to the printer 15, the number of packets that the printer 15 can receive is “0”. Responds with "0" as a credit request response indicating the amount of receivable data.

Next, the procedure of the credit request for transmission in step (6) will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of the second data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, and corresponds to the detailed procedure of the transmittable credit request shown in step (6) of FIG. In addition, (1) ~
(5) shows each step.

First, in step (1), the RAM of the host 1
The CPU 11 reads the delay time from when the transmittable packet designated by the user stored in 12 becomes "0" until the credit request is made, and the read delay time elapses in step (2). The process is suspended until
When the delay time read in step (1) has elapsed, in step (3) the printer 15 is requested to notify the amount of transmittable data, that is, a credit request as shown in FIG. 9 is issued. . At this time, as shown in FIG. 9, an effective receivable data amount is generated in the printer 15.

Next, in step (4), the process waits until there is a response from the printer 15. At this time, as shown in FIG. 10, since a valid value other than 0 is returned from the printer 15, if there is a response from the printer 15, step (5)
Then, the response from the printer 15 is credited to RA.
The data is saved in M12, updated, and the process ends.

As described above, when the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printer 15 held by the host 1, that is, the credit becomes "0", the printer 15 always returns a valid value at the first credit request. This makes it possible to prevent the credit returned from the printer 15 from becoming “0” and prevent overhead.

In this embodiment, the credit "0" means, for example, the number of transmittable packets, that is, the number of credits set to a predetermined value (for example, a certain small value, 10% of the maximum number of credits). If it falls below, it shall be immediately judged that "credit is 0".
The same applies to the following embodiments.

[Second Embodiment] FIGS. 13 to 17 are diagrams for explaining a transition state of data communication in a printing system showing a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 13 shows a state after data transfer is started. Correspondingly, the data of “1” is sent from the host 1, the transmittable data amount of the host 1 is “3”,
The receivable data amount of the printer 15 corresponds to the state of "4". Further, FIG. 14 shows a state after the start of data transfer,
A data amount of "1" packets is sent from the host 1, the transmittable data amount of the host 1 is changed to "3", the receivable data amount of the printer 15 is changed to "3", and the printer 15 prints the received data. Corresponding to the state.

Further, FIG. 15 corresponds to a state in which the data transfer makes the transmittable data amount of the host 1 "0" and the receivable data amount of the printer 15 becomes "1" at this time. In addition, FIG.
On the other hand, it corresponds to the state of issuing a data transmission possible data notification request (credit request). In addition, FIG.
In response to the data transmission possible data notification request from the host 1 to the printer 15, the printer 15 corresponds to the state in which the receivable data amount “1” is returned as the credit request response.

The data communication processing of the second embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Since the basic configuration and processing operation of the printing system are the same as those in the above-described first embodiment, description will be given by diverting FIGS. 1 and 11.

The second embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above in the credit request process of step (6) and the data transmission process of step (3) shown in FIG.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, which corresponds to another detailed procedure (credit request processing procedure) shown in step (3) of FIG. To do. Note that (1)
~ (3) indicates each step First, in step (1),
A credit request (transmittable data amount notification request) is output to the printer 15 as shown in FIG. Next, in step (2), it waits for a response from the printer 15. Then, as shown in FIG.
If there is a response that returns a valid value other than "0",
In step (3), the response from the printer 15 is saved as a credit in the RAM 12 and updated, and the process ends.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 13, when the data transfer rate shown in FIG. 2 cannot be satisfied, the host 1 lowers the data transfer rate and transfers the data to the printer 15. At that time, as shown in FIG. 14, the printer 14 receives the data and performs the printing operation.

In this case, in the present embodiment, the transfer speed is slower than that in the first embodiment, that is, the printer 1 is transferred per unit time.
5, the amount of data received by the printer 5 is small, and as shown in FIG. 15, when the number of credits held in the RAM 12 by the host 1 becomes “0”, the receivable packet of the printer becomes a valid value other than “0”. Has become.

[Third Embodiment] FIGS. 19 and 20 are diagrams for explaining transition states of data communication in a printing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention. FIG.
FIG. 20 shows a state in which the printer 15 returns “1” to the data transmission possible data notification request from the host 1 in response to the data transmission possible data notification request from the host 1 to the printer 15. Correspond.

The data communication processing in the third embodiment will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The basic configuration and processing operation of the print processing apparatus according to the third embodiment are similar to those of the above-described first embodiment, and therefore the description will be given with reference to FIGS. 1 and 11.

The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment described above in the transmittable data amount notification request processing of step (6) shown in FIG. 11, and the printer 15 that receives the credit request from the host 1 The point is that no response is returned until a valid value is set.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention, which corresponds to another detailed procedure (credit request processing procedure) shown in step (3) of FIG. To do. Note that (1)
As shown in FIG. 19 showing steps (3) to (3), when the amount of data that can be transmitted becomes “0”, the host 1 requests the printer 15 to notify the amount of data that can be transmitted. Printer 1
The number 5 of receivable packets is “0” when the request from the host 1 is received.

First, the number of receivable packets (receivable data size) is checked in step (1), and then the number of receivable packets obtained in step (2) is a valid value other than "0". If NO in step S3, the printing process is performed in step (3), and the process returns to step (1) to repeat the same process.

On the other hand, when the receivable data amount is a valid value other than "0" in the step (2), the printer 15 can send the printer 15 to the host 1 in step (4), that is, the host 1 sends it. The process is terminated after responding with the possible number of packets as credit.

As a result, as shown in FIG. 20, the credit held by the host 1 becomes "0", and a valid response is returned to the credit request issued by the host 1.

In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the data transmission direction is from the host 1 to the printer 15, but the present invention is also applicable from the printer to the host.

The unit of the amount of data transmitted / received between the host 1 and the printer 15 may be a byte or a bit, or a specific number of bytes or a packet number in which a certain number of bits is one unit. The invention applies.

The characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 11, 12, 18, 21, and the like.

A plurality of channels are secured on a predetermined communication medium (IEEE1284.4 in the present embodiment) configured as described above, so that both the data processing device (host 1) and the printing device (printer 15) can operate. A communication processing method of a printing system capable of bidirectional communication, or a computer that controls a printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured on a predetermined communication medium and a data processing apparatus and a printing apparatus can perform bidirectional communication Is a storage medium storing various programs, and monitors the number of mutually transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer between the data processing device and the printing device via any one channel, and The first judgment step (FIG.
(1)) and the first determination step, if it is determined that the number of packets is “0”, it is determined whether the print processing state acquired from the printing device via another channel is normal. A second determination step (step (5) in FIG. 11) for determination, and a transmission requesting from the data processing apparatus to the printing apparatus when the second determination step determines that the print processing state is normal. Issuing step of issuing a request for requesting the number of possible packets with a predetermined delay (step (6) in FIG. 11, details of step (1) to FIG. 12).
Since (5)) is provided, even if the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing device transits to "0", the overhead due to repeated request requests from the data transfer device is prevented. Thus, it is possible to reduce unnecessary traffic from the data processing device side using the communication medium without lowering the data processing efficiency.

Further, a predetermined communication medium (in the present embodiment,
A plurality of channels are secured on the IEEE1284.4) and a data processing device (host 1) and a printing device (printer 1)
5) is a communication processing method of a printing system capable of two-way communication, or controls a printing system capable of two-way communication between a data processing device and a printing device by securing a plurality of channels on a predetermined communication medium. A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program, a printer 15 as a data transfer source, and a host 1 as a data transfer destination, between the data processing device and the printing device via any one channel. A first determination step (step (1) in FIG. 11) for determining whether the number of packets is “0” by monitoring the number of mutually transmittable packets that fluctuates with packet transfer, and the first determination step. Determines that the number of packets is “0”, the data processing state acquired from the data processing device via another channel is normal. A second determination step (step (5) in FIG. 11) in which the data processing state is determined to be normal by the second determination step Issuing process for issuing a request for requesting a certain number of packets with a predetermined delay (see FIG. 11).
Since it has step (6) of the above and details (steps (1) to (5) of FIG. 12), even if the number of packets that can be transmitted to the data processing device transits to “0”, It is possible to prevent overhead due to repeated request requests from the printing device, reduce the print processing efficiency, and reduce unnecessary traffic from the printing device side using the communication medium.

The configuration of the data processing program readable by the printing system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the printing system according to the present invention.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS or the like on the program reading side, such as the program, is stored. In some cases, an icon or the like for identification display may be stored.

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

FIG. 11, FIG. 12 and FIG. 1 in this embodiment.
8. The functions shown in FIG. 21 may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. In that case, the present invention is applied even when the information group including the program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. It is a thing.

As described above, the storage medium recording the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP of the system or apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by U) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

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

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

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

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

According to each of the above-described embodiments, the data communication between the host and the printer is performed bidirectionally based on IEEE1284.4, a plurality of channels are prepared, one is for sending the print data, and one is for the printer. In the system that monitors the current status of the host computer, teaches the number of credits that can be sent and received between the host and printer for each channel, and controls the communication between the host and the printer, the number of credits from the host to the printer becomes "0". At this time, if the printer is normal, the means for the host to issue a credit request request to the printer after the time specified in advance by the user has elapsed, and the number of credits from the printer to the host. When the value becomes “0”, the printer side has previously specified the credit request request to the host by the user. Since during issued after the elapse, it is possible to prevent overhead due to repeated issuance of transmittable amount notification request by the data transmittable amount 0. Moreover, the speed is not reduced. In addition, it is possible to reduce traffic.

Further, in the above printing system and method, when it is assumed that the number of credits from the host to the printer becomes 0, the host slows down the speed of data sent to the printer, and the number of credits from the printer to the host is " When it is supposed to be "0", the printer slows down the speed of the data to be sent to the host, so that it is possible to prevent the overhead due to the repeated issuance of the transmittable amount notification request with the data transmittable amount 0. Further, by slowing the communication speed, the data transmission side can occupy less resources such as the CPU and the transmission path, and the load can be reduced. In addition, it is possible to reduce traffic.

Further, in the above printing system and method, when the number of credits from the host to the printer becomes "0", the printer has no abnormality in response to the credit request request from the host to the printer. If so, the printer side notifies the host side after the amount of receivable data has accumulated, exceeds the packet size and becomes a valid value, or when the number of credits from the printer to the host becomes "0". In response to the credit request request from the printer side to the host side, the host side accumulates the amount of data that can be received, exceeds the packet size, and notifies the printer side after it becomes a valid value. It is possible to prevent overhead due to repeated issuance of the transmittable amount notification request of 0. Moreover, the speed is not reduced. In addition, it is possible to reduce traffic.

In the above embodiment, the packet communication according to 1284.4 is taken as an example, and therefore the number of packets that can be transmitted is described as the number of credits.
In the non-packet mode according to 1), the portion described as the credit number above may be replaced with the number of packets that can be transmitted.

[0097]

As described above, according to the data processing device, the communication processing method, and the computer-readable storage medium of the present invention, the data processing device and the printing device secure a plurality of channels, In a printing system capable of two-way communication, the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates due to packet transfer with the printing device via any one channel is monitored, and it is determined that the number of monitored packets does not exist. , Determine whether the status of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal,
When it is determined that the state of the printing apparatus is normal, the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing apparatus is controlled, so that unnecessary traffic on the communication medium is reduced and It is possible to prevent a decrease in data processing efficiency with the data processing device and to reduce overhead of a data transfer source due to a credit request.

Further, according to the printing apparatus, the communication processing method, and the computer-readable storage medium of the present invention, the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus secure a plurality of channels and are capable of bidirectional communication. At
The number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer to and from the data processing device via any one channel is monitored, and if it is determined that the number of packets to be monitored does not exist, it is acquired via another channel. When determining whether the state of the data processing device is normal, and when determining that the state of the data processing device is normal, timing for issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the data processing device. To reduce wasteful traffic on the communication medium, prevent a decrease in data processing efficiency between the printing device and the data processing device, and reduce overhead of the data transfer source due to a credit request. There is an effect that can be.

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[0100]

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[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between a host and a printer shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between a host and a printer shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between a host and a printer shown in FIG.

5 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between a host and a printer shown in FIG.

6 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between a host and a printer shown in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between the host and the printer shown in FIG.

8 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between the host and the printer shown in FIG.

9 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between the host and the printer shown in FIG.

10 is a diagram showing a transition state of data communication between the host and the printer shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a transition state of data communication in the printing system according to the third exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the printing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the printing system according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 Information processing device (host) 10 connection 11 CPU 12 RAM 13 ROM 15 Printer 17 Connection 18 Printing department 21 CPU 22 RAM 23 ROM

Claims (14)

(57) [Claims] 1. A data processing device which secures a plurality of channels with a printing device to perform bidirectional communication, and which accompanies packet transfer with the printing device via any one channel. The monitoring means for monitoring the fluctuating number of transmittable packets, the first judging means for judging whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and the first judging means for not having the packet number When the determination is made, the second determination unit determines whether the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal, and the second determination unit determines that the state of the printing device is normal. If the determination is made, the data processing apparatus further comprises a control unit that controls the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing apparatus. 2. A printing device for performing two-way communication by securing a plurality of channels with a data processing device, wherein the packet is transferred to and from the data processing device via any one of the channels. Monitoring means for monitoring the variable number of transmittable packets, first determining means for determining whether there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and the first determining means for not having the packet number If it is determined that the data processing device is in a normal state, the second determination means determines whether the state of the data processing device acquired through another channel is normal, and the second determination unit determines that the state of the data processing device is normal. A printing device comprising: a control device for controlling the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the data processing device when the determination device makes a determination. 3. The control means, when the second determination means determines that the state of the data processing device is normal, issues the request request after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. The printing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the printing apparatus is a printing apparatus. 4. A predicting unit that predicts whether or not the number of packets monitored by the monitoring unit will be exhausted, and the control unit, when the predicting unit predicts that the packet count will be exhausted, from the printing device. 4. The printing device according to claim 2, wherein the data transfer speed to the data processing device is changed to a low speed. 5. A communication processing method in a printing system capable of bidirectional communication between a data processing device and a printing device by securing a plurality of channels, the data processing device and the printing device via any one channel. A monitoring step of monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates as a result of packet transfer between the first and second packets, a first determination step of determining whether or not there is a packet number to be monitored in the monitoring step, If not, the second determination step of determining whether the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal, and the state of the printing device is normal. If it is determined in the second determination step that the number of packets that can be transmitted is determined from the data processing device to the printing device, the timing for issuing a request request is controlled. Communication processing method characterized by a step. 6. In the control step, when it is determined in the second determination step that the state of the printing device is normal,
The communication processing method according to claim 5, wherein the request request is issued after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. 7. A data processing device, comprising: a prediction step of predicting whether or not there is a packet number to be monitored in the monitoring step, and the control step, if the prediction step predicts that the packet number will be exhausted. 8. The communication processing method according to claim 5, wherein the data transfer speed from the printer to the printing device is changed to a low speed. 8. A notification step of delaying the response timing to the request request and notifying the number of transmittable packets until the number of packets becomes 1 or more in response to the request request issued by the control step. The communication processing method according to any one of claims 5 to 7, further comprising: 9. A communication processing method in a printing system in which a plurality of channels are secured and a data processing apparatus and a printing apparatus can bidirectionally communicate with each other, wherein the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus are provided via any one channel. A monitoring step of monitoring the number of packets that can be transmitted that fluctuates as a result of packet transfer between the first packet and the second packet; If not, the second determination step of determining whether the state of the data processing apparatus acquired through another channel is normal, and the state of the data processing apparatus When the second determination step determines that the number of packets is normal, the timing of issuing a request request for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted from the printing device to the data processing device. Communication processing method characterized by a control step of controlling. 10. In the control step, if the second determination step determines that the state of the data processing device is normal, the request request is issued after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. The communication processing method according to claim 5, wherein 11. A computer-readable recording medium that stores a program for controlling a data processing device that performs bidirectional communication by securing a plurality of channels with a printing device, the program comprising: Whether there is a monitoring step of monitoring the number of transmittable packets that fluctuates with the packet transfer between the data processing apparatus and the printing apparatus via any one channel, and whether or not there is the number of packets monitored in the monitoring step. And a first determination step for determining whether or not the number of packets is absent in the first determination step, and determines whether the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal. And a second determination step that determines that the state of the printing apparatus is normal, and requests the printing apparatus for the number of packets that can be transmitted. Recording medium, characterized in that to execute a control step of controlling the timing of issuing a demand request to the data processing device. 12. In the control step, if the second determination step determines that the state of the printing device is normal, the request request is issued after a predetermined delay time that has been set elapses. The recording medium according to claim 11, wherein the recording medium is a recording medium. 13. A data processing device which secures a plurality of channels with a printing device to perform bidirectional communication, and which accompanies packet transfer with the printing device via any one channel. The monitoring means for monitoring the fluctuating number of transmittable packets, the first judging means for judging whether or not there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and the first judging means for not having the packet number When the determination is made, the second determination unit determines whether the state of the printing device acquired through another channel is normal, and the second determination unit determines that the state of the printing device is normal. A data processing apparatus, comprising: a requesting unit that requests the number of packets that can be transmitted to the printing apparatus when the determination is made. 14. A printing device which secures a plurality of channels with a data processing device and performs two-way communication, and which is associated with packet transfer with the data processing device via any one channel. Monitoring means for monitoring the variable number of transmittable packets, first determining means for determining whether there is the number of packets monitored by the monitoring means, and the first determining means for not having the packet number When it is determined that the data processing device is in a normal state, the second determination means determines whether the state of the data processing device acquired through another channel is normal; A printing apparatus comprising: requesting means for requesting the number of packets that can be transmitted to the data processing device when the determining means makes a determination.