JP4941596B2 - OUTPUT SYSTEM, OUTPUT DEVICE, OUTPUT DEVICE CONTROL METHOD, AND PROGRAM - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an output system, an output device such as a printer or a customer display, a host device, a control method thereof, and an information recording medium on which a program for realizing these is recorded.

  An output device such as a printer or a customer display prints or displays characters and graphics in accordance with command data transmitted from the host device, and outputs these information to the user. When a setting command for specifying the default size of characters and graphics, font specification, line spacing, language (JIS, ASCII, etc.) is sent from the host device to the output device, the specified settings Characters and figures are output according to the values.

  Conventionally, in such an output device, various setting values as described above are stored in a setting value storage area in a RAM (Random Access Memory), and at the time of output, characters and characters are referred to by referring to the setting values stored in the RAM. The figure was output. Also, when the output device is turned on, the set values stored in the set value storage area in the RAM are initialized according to the default values incorporated in the program and the state of the dip switches.

  Therefore, in order to set these set values to values different from those at the time of power-on, a command for specifying the set values is supplied from the host device to the output device after the power is turned on until the application is started or when the application is started. There was a need to send.

  Many applications also send various setting commands after sending an initialization command to the output device during the startup process. This is a general method for making the setting suitable for the application after once returning the setting value of the output device to the default value. In this process, a large amount of data is transmitted to change the setting value of the output device.

  On the other hand, in JP-A-8-69362, environmental information (setting values) stored in a RAM is stored in a nonvolatile memory when the power is turned off, and the environmental information is read from the nonvolatile memory and stored in the RAM when the power is turned on. An output device for storage is disclosed.

JP-A-8-69362

  However, in the communication between the host device and the output device, the communication speed is often slow. Therefore, in order to initialize the output device by setting a desired setting value, a large amount of commands are transmitted. The time required for initialization becomes longer. For this reason, the output system which can perform such initialization rapidly is strong.

  In particular, there are many applications that send an initialization command to the output device for each output session (for example, printing for one document), but the amount of commands sent after initialization can be reduced. Output system is desired.

  Furthermore, there is a demand for an output system that can easily set or change the set value of the output device at high speed by transmitting command data from the host device.

  Further, in an output system in which a plurality of applications share one output device, a desired setting value may be different for each application, and an output system that allows easy setting for each application is desired.

  Furthermore, there is a demand for an output system in which the setting value of the output device is maintained without change even when the power of the output device is turned on again without the host device predicting.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an output system that can easily save and load current setting values of an output device such as a printer or a customer display, the output device, and a host device An object of the present invention is to provide an information recording medium on which these control methods and a program for realizing them are recorded.

  In order to achieve the above object, the following invention is disclosed in accordance with the principle of the present invention.

  The output system of the present invention is configured to include an output device and a host device connected to the output device.

  Here, the host device transmits command data to the output device.

  On the other hand, the output device includes a setting value storage unit that temporarily stores setting values and a nonvolatile storage unit that stores setting values in a nonvolatile manner, and receives and receives command data transmitted from the host device. When the command data is a set value specifying command for specifying a set value for setting the output device, the set value is stored in the set value storage unit, and when the received command data is a set value save command, the set value is stored. The setting value stored in the storage unit is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit, and when the received command data is a setting value load command, the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is stored in the setting value storage unit. When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, the character or graphic is output with reference to the set value stored in the set value storage unit.

  The output device of the output system of the present invention can be configured to store a predetermined default value in the set value storage unit when the received command data is a default value load command.

  Further, the output device of the output system of the present invention, when the power is turned on, or when the received command data is an initialization command, the set value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is stored in the set value storage unit. It can be configured to store.

  Further, the output device of the output system of the present invention checks whether or not the setting value is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit when the power is turned on, and if the setting value is stored, the output device in the nonvolatile storage unit. The stored setting value can be configured to be stored in the setting value storage unit.

  The output system of the present invention is configured to include an output device and a host device connected to the output device.

  Here, the host device transmits command data to the output device.

  On the other hand, the output device includes a set value storage unit that temporarily stores a set value and a non-volatile storage unit that includes a plurality of areas for storing the set value in a non-volatile manner, and receives command data transmitted from the host device. When the received command data is a set value specifying command for specifying a set value for setting the output device, the set value is stored in the set value storage unit, and the received command data is included in the nonvolatile storage unit In the case of a setting value save command that designates one of a plurality of areas, the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit is stored in the area, and the received command data is included in the nonvolatile storage unit. If the command is a setting value load command that specifies one of the areas, the setting value stored in that area is stored in the setting value storage unit, and the output command that specifies the character or figure to be output by the received command data. If a command to output the character or graphics refers to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit.

  Further, the host device of the output system of the present invention transmits a set value information read command designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit to the output device, and the output device of the output system of the present invention includes: When the received command data is a set value information read command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value information stored in the area is read and the read set value information To the host device, the host device receives the setting value information transmitted from the output device, checks whether the received setting value information is valid, and if it is valid, assigns the area to the output device. It can be configured to send a specified setpoint load command.

  Further, when the received command data is an automatic load setting command that designates any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the output device of the output system of the present invention stores information specifying the area in a nonvolatile manner. When the power is turned on or when the received command data is an initialization command, the setting value stored in the area specified by the information stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is set. It can comprise so that it may memorize | store in a value memory | storage part.

  The output device of the output system of the present invention further includes a printing unit that prints characters or figures, and outputs the characters or figures specified in the output command by printing the characters or figures on the printing unit. Can be configured.

  The output device of the output system of the present invention further includes a display unit for displaying characters or graphics, and displays the characters or graphics on the display unit so as to output the characters or graphics designated in the output command. Can be configured.

  An output device of the present invention is an output device connected to a host device, and includes a setting value storage unit, a nonvolatile storage unit, a receiving unit, a setting value designation control unit, a setting value save control unit, and a setting A value load control unit and an output unit are provided.

  Here, the set value storage unit temporarily stores the set value.

  The nonvolatile storage unit stores the setting value in a nonvolatile manner.

  The receiving unit receives command data transmitted from the host device.

  When the received command data is a setting value designation command that designates a setting value for setting the output device, the setting value designation control unit stores the setting value in the setting value storage unit.

  When the received command data is a set value save command, the set value save control unit stores the set value stored in the set value storage unit in the non-volatile storage unit.

  When the received command data is a set value load command, the set value load control unit stores the set value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit in the set value storage unit.

  When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, the output unit refers to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit and outputs the character or graphic.

  In addition, the output device of the present invention can be configured to further include a default value control unit.

  Here, when the received command data is a default value save command, the default value control unit stores a predetermined default value in the set value storage unit.

  The output device of the present invention can be configured to further include a power-on initialization control unit.

  Here, when the power is turned on, when the power is turned on, or when the received command data is an initialization command, the control unit stores the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. To remember.

  The output device of the present invention can be configured to further include a power-on control unit.

  Here, when the power is turned on, the power-on control unit checks whether or not the set value is stored in the non-volatile storage unit. If the set value is stored, it is stored in the non-volatile storage unit. The set value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  An output device of the present invention is connected to a host device, and a setting value storage unit, a nonvolatile storage unit, a receiving unit, a setting value designation control unit, a setting value save control unit, a setting value load control unit, And an output unit.

  Here, the set value storage unit temporarily stores the set value.

  The nonvolatile storage unit includes a plurality of areas for storing the setting values in a nonvolatile manner.

  The receiving unit receives command data transmitted from the host device.

  When the received command data is a setting value designation command that designates a setting value for setting the output device, the setting value designation control unit stores the setting value in the setting value storage unit.

  When the received command data is a set value save command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value save control unit stores the set value stored in the set value storage unit. Store in this area.

  When the received command data is a setting value load command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the setting value load control unit sets the setting value stored in the area as a setting value. Store in the storage unit.

  When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, the output unit refers to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit and outputs the character or graphic.

  Further, the output device of the present invention can be configured to further include a set value information read control unit and a transmission unit.

  Here, when the received command data is a set value information read command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value information read control unit stores the set value stored in the area. Read information.

  The transmission unit transmits the read setting value information to the host device.

  The output device of the present invention can be configured to further include an automatic load setting control unit and a power-on initialization control unit.

  Here, when the received command data is an automatic load setting command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the automatic load setting control unit stores information for designating the area in a nonvolatile manner. Store in the department.

  The power-on initialization control unit stores an area specified by information stored in the nonvolatile storage unit when the power is turned on or when the received command data is an initialization command. The set value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  The output unit of the output device of the present invention includes a printing unit that prints characters or graphics, and is configured to output the characters or graphics specified in the output command by printing the characters or graphics on the printing unit. can do.

  In addition, the output unit of the output device of the present invention includes a display unit that displays characters or graphics, and is configured to output the characters or graphics specified in the output command by displaying the characters or graphics on the display unit. can do.

  The host device of the present invention is connected to the output device, and includes a set value designation command generation unit, a set value save command generation unit, a set value load command generation unit, an output command generation unit, and a transmission unit. Configure.

  Here, the set value specifying command generating unit generates a set value specifying command for setting the output device.

  The set value save command generation unit generates a set value save command.

  The set value load command generation unit generates a set value load command.

  The output command generation unit generates an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output from the output device.

  The transmission unit transmits the generated set value designation command, set value save command, set value load command, and output command to the output device as command data.

  The host device of the present invention is connected to an output device including a nonvolatile storage unit including a plurality of areas for storing setting values in a nonvolatile manner, and includes a setting value designation command generation unit, a setting value save command generation unit, and a setting value load. A command generation unit, an output command generation unit, and a transmission unit are provided.

  The set value specifying command generating unit generates a set value specifying command for setting the output device.

  The set value save command generation unit generates a set value save command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit.

  The set value load command generation unit generates a set value load command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit.

  The output command generation unit generates an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output from the output device.

  The transmission unit transmits the generated set value designation command, set value save command, set value load command, and output command to the output device as command data.

  In addition, the host device of the present invention can be configured to further include a set value information read command generation unit, a reception unit, and a save area control unit.

  Here, the set value information read command generation unit generates a set value information read command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit.

  The transmission unit also transmits the generated set value information read command as command data to the output device.

  The receiving unit receives setting value information transmitted from the output device.

  The save area control unit checks whether or not the received set value information is valid, and if it is valid, causes the set value load command generation unit to generate a set value load command for designating the area.

  The control method of the present invention controls an output device that is connected to a host device and includes a set value storage unit that temporarily stores a set value and a non-volatile storage unit that stores the set value in a non-volatile manner. A setting value specifying step, a setting value saving step, a setting value loading step, and an output step.

  Here, in the receiving step, the command data transmitted from the host device is received.

  In the set value specifying step, when the received command data is a set value specifying command for specifying a set value for setting the output device, the set value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  In the set value saving step, when the received command data is a set value save command, the set value stored in the set value storage unit is stored in the non-volatile storage unit.

  In the set value loading step, when the received command data is a set value load command, the set value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is stored in the set value storage unit.

  In the output step, when the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, the character or graphic is output with reference to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit.

  In addition, the control method of the present invention can be configured to further include a default value step.

  Here, in the default value process, when the received command data is a default value load command, a predetermined default value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  Further, the control method of the present invention can be configured to further include a power-on initialization process.

  Here, in the power-on initialization process, when the power is turned on or when the received command data is an initialization command, the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is stored in the setting value storage unit. To do.

  In addition, the control method of the present invention can be configured to further include a power-on process.

  Here, in the power-on process, when the power is turned on, it is checked whether or not the setting value is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. If the setting value is stored, the setting value is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. The set value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  A control method of the present invention includes an output device that is connected to a host device and includes a setting value storage unit that temporarily stores setting values, and a non-volatile storage unit that includes a plurality of areas that store setting values in a nonvolatile manner. And a receiving step, a setting value designating step, a setting value saving step, a setting value loading step, and an output step.

  Here, in the receiving step, the command data transmitted from the host device is received.

  In the set value specifying step, when the received command data is a set value specifying command for specifying a set value for setting the output device, the set value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  In the set value saving step, when the received command data is a set value save command for designating any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value stored in the set value storage unit is Store in the area.

  In the set value loading step, when the received command data is a set value load command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value stored in the area is stored as a set value. Store in the department.

  In the output step, when the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, the character or graphic is output with reference to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit.

  The control method of the present invention can be configured to further include a set value information reading step and a transmission step.

  Here, in the set value information reading step, when the received command data is a set value information read command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the set value information stored in the area Is read.

  In the transmission step, the read setting value information is transmitted to the host device.

  The control method of the present invention can be configured to further include an automatic load setting process and a power-on initialization process.

  Here, in the automatic load setting step, when the received command data is an automatic load setting command for specifying any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, information for specifying the area is stored in the nonvolatile storage unit. To remember.

  In the power-on initialization process, when the power is turned on, or when the received command data is an initialization command, the settings stored in the area specified by the information stored in the nonvolatile storage unit The value is stored in the set value storage unit.

  In the control method of the present invention, the output device further includes a printing unit that prints characters or graphics, and in the output step, the characters or graphics specified in the output command are printed by printing the characters or graphics on the printing unit. Can be configured to output.

  In the control method of the present invention, the output device further includes a display unit that displays characters or graphics, and in the output step, the characters or graphics designated in the output command are displayed by displaying the characters or graphics on the display unit. Can be configured to output.

  The control method of the present invention controls a host device connected to an output device, and generates a set value designation command generation step, a set value save command generation step, a set value load command generation step, an output command generation step, and a transmission And a process.

  Here, in the set value designation command generation step, a set value designation command for setting the output device is generated.

  In the set value save command generation step, a set value save command is generated.

  In the set value load command generation step, a set value load command is generated.

  In the output command generation step, an output command for specifying a character or a figure to be output by the output device is generated.

  In the transmission step, the generated set value designation command, set value save command, set value load command, and output command are transmitted to the output device as command data.

  The control method of the present invention controls a host device connected to an output device having a nonvolatile storage unit including a plurality of areas for storing setting values in a nonvolatile manner, and generates a setting value designation command generation step and a setting value save command generation A process, a set value load command generation process, an output command generation process, and a transmission process.

  Here, in the set value designation command generation step, a set value designation command for setting the output device is generated.

  In the set value save command generation step, a set value save command for designating one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit is generated.

  In the set value load command generation step, a set value load command for specifying any of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit is generated.

  In the output command generation step, an output command for specifying a character or a figure to be output by the output device is generated.

  In the transmission step, the generated set value designation command, set value save command, set value load command, and output command are transmitted to the output device as command data.

  Further, the control method of the present invention can be configured to further include a set value information read command generation step, a reception step, and a save area control step.

  Here, in the set value information read command generation step, a set value information read command for designating any one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit is generated.

  In the transmission step, the generated set value information read command is also transmitted to the output device as command data.

  In the receiving step, set value information transmitted from the output device is received.

  In the save area control step, it is checked whether or not the received set value information is valid, and if it is valid, a set value load command for designating the area is generated in the set value load command generation step.

  An output system of the present invention, a program for realizing functions of an output device such as a printer or a customer display, and a host device, and a program for realizing processing executed by these control methods are stored in a compact disk, a floppy disk ( (Registered trademark), hard disk, magneto-optical disk, digital video disk, magnetic tape, semiconductor memory, and other information recording media.

  The program recorded on the information recording medium of the present invention is output by a control device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) provided in an output device such as a printer or a customer display, or a host device such as a general-purpose computer, or a peripheral device When executed, the output system, the output device such as a printer or a customer display, the host device, and the control method thereof can be realized.

  Independent of these apparatuses, an information recording medium on which the program of the present invention is recorded can be distributed and sold, or updated from a host apparatus.

  According to the present invention, an output system capable of easily saving and loading current setting values of an output device such as a printer or a customer display, the output device, a host device, a control method thereof, and a program for realizing them are recorded. An information recording medium can be provided.

The schematic diagram which shows the outline | summary structure of 1st Embodiment of the output system of this invention. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a printer 103 of the output system 101 illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a customer display 104 of the output system 101 shown in FIG. 1. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing executed by the output device (printer 103, customer display 104) of the output system 101 shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a host device 102 of the output system 101 shown in FIG. 1. The flowchart which shows the flow of processes at the time of initialization etc. which are performed with the output device of 2nd Embodiment of the output system of this invention. The schematic diagram which shows the mode of the non-volatile memory | storage part 206 of the output device of 2nd Embodiment of the output system of this invention.

  An embodiment of the present invention will be described below. In addition, embodiment described below is for description and does not limit the scope of the present invention. Therefore, those skilled in the art can employ embodiments in which each or all of these elements are replaced with equivalent ones, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention.

(First embodiment)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a first embodiment of an output system of the present invention. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The output system 101 of this embodiment includes a host device 102, a printer 103, and a customer display 104. The printer 103 and the customer display 104 are connected to the host apparatus 102 by bus connection through the same communication line 105. Here, both the printer 103 and the customer display 104 function as the output device of the present invention.

  When the host device 102 transmits command data to the communication line 105, the printer 103 and the customer display 104 receive the command data via the communication line 105.

  A unique device number is assigned to the printer 103 and the customer display 104, and it can be determined whether or not the command data received via the communication line 105 is addressed to itself by a device selection command. Here, the device selection command is to specify the device number of the device that is the target of subsequent command data. In addition, it is good also as providing the parameter which shows having transmitted to the apparatus number n in various commands.

In this manner, if command data (output command) specifying the ASCII code of the character to be printed or displayed is transmitted after the device is selected, the character is printed or displayed on the selected device. In addition, various settings such as line spacing, font selection, and country-specific settings can be transmitted. Examples of such various settings are shown below.
・ Setting of right space amount of characters ・ Designation / cancellation of print / display character decorations (underline, emphasis, inversion, etc.) ・ Batch setting of print / display mode ・ Designation / cancellation / definition / erasure / line feed of download character set Setting of amount, setting of horizontal tab position, specification of print character type / display character type, selection of international characters, selection of character code table, definition of download bit image, definition of macro, setting of left margin, setting of basic calculation pitch, Valid / invalid of automatic status transmission These setting items are set by command data (setting value specifying command) for specifying parameters, and setting values are stored in a RAM provided in the printer 103 or the customer display 104. These set values are appropriately referred to when printing or displaying characters or figures. Some of them can be set for both the printer 103 and the customer display 104, and some can be set for only one of them.

  In the present embodiment, the command data relating to saving / loading of setting values (hereinafter referred to as “customized command”) has the following format. Here, 0x is a prefix indicating that it is a hexadecimal number.

“0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm”: command data indicating commands of parameters n and m for the printer 103.
“0x1f 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm”: command data indicating parameters n and m commands for the customer display 104.

  A function code is designated for parameter n, and an area number is designated for parameter m. The function code n = 1 means a set value save command, and the function code n = 2 means a set value load command. The area number m = 0 means that the factory default value is adopted. When the area number m is 1 or more, the setting value is saved or loaded using the area indicated by the number. Means. For example, when n = 2 and m = 0, a command for loading a default value is designated.

  When the printer 103 receives the customization command “0x1f 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” for the customer display, it is skipped and ignored. On the other hand, when the customer display 104 receives the customization command “0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” for the printer, it is skipped and ignored.

  Also, initialization of the printer 103 and the customer display 104 is instructed by command data (initialization command) shown below.

・ "0x1b 0x40"
In this manner, by configuring the above-described command data format, two devices connected in a bus connection by the common communication line 105 can separate the command data addressed to themselves.

  A format other than the present embodiment can be adopted for the format of these command data, and these embodiments are also included in the scope of the present invention. Further, although the present embodiment is a mode in which the printer 103 and the customer display 104 are connected to the host device 102, a mode in which only one of them is connected to the host device 102 is also included in the scope of the present invention. .

(Outline configuration of printer)
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the printer 103 of the output system 101 shown in FIG. In the figure, elements having the same functions as those in the above figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The CPU 201 controls each unit of the printer 103. A program for the CPU 201 to control each unit is stored in the ROM 202, and the CPU 201 sequentially executes the program when the printer is turned on. At this time, the setting of the dip switch 210 is read, and the CPU 201 performs printer initialization processing.

  The printer 103 communicates with the host device via the communication line 105 and the interface 203. When command data from the host device is received, an interrupt is generated for the CPU 201, and interrupt processing is started. In the interrupt process, the received command data is sequentially stored in the reception buffer area 221 in the RAM 204, and the process returns to the normal process.

  In the normal process, the CPU 201 sequentially reads the command data stored in the reception buffer area 221, determines what command or data the command data is, and executes a process corresponding to the type.

  Processing to be executed includes setting of the printer 103 itself and printing of characters and graphics.

  The settings of the printer 103 itself are stored in a setting value storage unit 205 prepared in the RAM 204. In the present invention, the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit 205 is stored in the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206 such as a flash EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM) in accordance with the command data transmitted from the host device 102. To save. Further, the setting value stored in the area 220 is loaded into the RAM 204 in accordance with the command data transmitted from the host device 102. The number of areas 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206 can be an arbitrary number of one or more. In the present embodiment, as shown in the figure, N (N ≧ 1) areas are prepared.

  When the command data is an output command for printing a character or graphic, the line buffer or page buffer area 222 prepared in the RAM 204 stores the font information and graphic information of the character read from the ROM 202. Expand to. When developing, the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204 is referred to.

  The information developed in the buffer area 222 is printed on a printing medium such as paper or film by driving the printing unit 208 included in the output unit 207 for each line or page.

(Outline configuration of customer display)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the customer display 104 of the output system 101 shown in FIG. In the figure, elements having the same functions as those in the above figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  In this embodiment, the general configuration of the customer display 104 and the general configuration of the printer 103 are substantially the same. The printer 103 and the customer display 104 have different output methods for printing or displaying characters and graphics, but there is no difference in that both are output devices. Therefore, description of similar parts is omitted.

  In the general configuration, the configuration of the output unit 207 is different, and a display unit 209 configured by a liquid crystal display, a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube), or the like is prepared here.

  A video RAM area 223 corresponding to the page buffer area 222 is prepared in the RAM 204, and font information of characters to be displayed and bitmap information of graphics are developed therein. The display information developed in the video RAM area 223 is transferred to the display unit 209 in the output unit 207 at an appropriate timing, for example, when executing the vertical synchronization interrupt process or the video RAM area 223 update process. Is displayed.

(Output device processing)
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of output processing executed by the output device of the output system 101 shown in FIG. 1, that is, the printer 103 and the customer display 104. This process corresponds to the normal process in the printer 103 described above. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  The CPU 201 checks whether or not the command data is received, that is, whether or not the command data is stored in the reception buffer area 221 in the RAM 204 (step S501). If command data is not stored in the reception buffer area 221 (step S501; No), the process waits (step S502) and returns to step S501. In the standby of step S502, other processing can be executed. For example, if a reception interrupt occurs during standby, the command data is stored in the reception buffer area 221.

  On the other hand, when the command data is stored in the reception buffer area 221 (step S501; Yes), the command data is read (step S503). The reception buffer area 221 is configured as a ring buffer or a queue. When command data is read, the command data is deleted from the reception buffer area 221.

  Next, the type of the read command data is checked (step S504). If the command data is for an output device other than the output device, or if an output device other than the output device is currently selected (step S504; other device), the process immediately returns to step S501. For example, when the output device is the printer 103, the command data is a customization command “0x1f 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” for customer display.

  If the command data is a set value designation command (step S504; set value designation), the set value designated by the command is stored in an area corresponding to the command in the set value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204 ( Step S505) and the process returns to Step S501. For example, the line feed amount setting command includes a set value n representing the line feed amount as a parameter, and stores the set value n in an area for storing the line feed amount in the setting value storage unit 205.

  When the command data is a set value save command (step S504; save set value), the set value stored in the set value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204 is copied to the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206. And stored (step S506).

  For example, when the output device is the printer 103, the function code n of the command data “0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” is 1 and the parameter m is 1 or more. The parameter m means the number of the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206 as described above. When one area 220 is prepared, only m = 1 is an effective value, and when a plurality of, for example, nine are prepared, m = 1 to 9 is an effective value.

  The setting value stored in the setting value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204 is stored in the m-th region 220 out of the region 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206. If the set values that can be saved / loaded are continuously arranged in the set value storage unit 205, it is only necessary to copy the continuous area. If not, the save / load is saved. It is necessary to select and copy the areas that store the possible setting values individually.

  If m is not a valid value, error processing is performed as appropriate or this command is ignored.

  When copying is completed, the process returns to step S501.

  When the command data is a set value load command (step S504; load set value), the set value stored in the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206 is stored in the set value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204. Copy and store (step S507).

  For example, when the output device is the printer 103, the function code n of the command data “0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” is 2 and the parameter m is 1 or more. The parameter m means the number of the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206 as in the case of saving.

  Of the area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206, the setting value is copied from the m-th area 220 to the setting value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204 and stored. Copying to the set value storage unit 205 is performed in association with the case of saving.

  When m = 0, it is interpreted as a default value load command for loading a predetermined default value, and the default value is stored in the set value storage unit 205 in the RAM 204.

  If m is not a valid value, error processing is performed as appropriate or this command is ignored.

  When copying is completed, the process returns to step S501.

  When the command data is an output command (step S504; output), the font information and graphics of characters are stored in the line buffer area 222, page buffer area 222, video RAM area 223, etc. in the RAM 204 in accordance with the output command. The bitmap information is expanded, the output unit 207 is appropriately driven, characters and figures are output by the printing unit 208 and the display unit 209 (step S508), and the process returns to step S501.

  If the command is other than this (step S504; other), the process corresponding to the command is executed (step S509), and the process returns to step S501.

(Host device embodiment)
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of the host device 102 of the output system 101 shown in FIG. In the figure, elements having the same functions as those in the above figures are denoted by the same reference numerals. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to FIG.

  Each unit of the host device 102 is controlled by the CPU 601. When the power is turned on, the CPU 601 reads and executes an IPL (Initial Program Loader) stored in the ROM 602. During the execution of IPL, the CPU 601 reads the operating system or application program stored in the external storage device 603 such as a floppy disk (registered trademark) or a hard disk into the RAM 604 and executes it.

  The operating system of the CPU 601 and the application program are used for the printer 103 and the printer 103 according to the instruction input obtained from the input device 605 such as a keyboard and mouse for receiving a command input from the user, and a remote operation interface from other computer devices. Command data to be transmitted to an output device such as the customer display 104 is generated and transmitted to these output devices via the interface 606 and the communication line 105. Various status information transmitted from the output device can also be received via the communication line 105 and the interface 606.

  The host device 102 can include a display device 607 such as a CRT or a liquid crystal display for reporting the results of various processes to the user. The display device 607 can be replaced by an output device such as the customer display 104. In this case, the display device 607 is not necessary.

  Here, the CPU 601 functions as a set value designation command generation unit, a set value save command generation unit, and an output command generation unit, and the interface 606 functions as a transmission unit.

  As described above, according to this embodiment of the output system, various setting values of the current output device can be appropriately saved / loaded by one command without individually transmitting from the host device. As a result, the amount of transmission data from the host device can be reduced, and the setting value transfer process can be speeded up. Furthermore, since the occurrence rate of communication errors that can occur during a large amount of data communication is extremely low, it is possible to construct a highly reliable output system.

(Second Embodiment)
This embodiment is largely the same as the above embodiment, but differs in the following points. That is, in this embodiment, when the power is turned on or when an initialization command is received, the output device automatically sets the setting value from any area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 to the setting value storage unit 205 of the RAM 204. It differs in that it is copied.

  In the present embodiment, in addition to the above, the CPU 201 of the output device such as the printer 103 or the customer display 104 also functions as a power-on initialization control unit and a power-on control unit.

  When the output device such as the printer 103 or the customer display 104 is turned on or when it is determined that the command is an initialization command as a result of interpreting the command data in step S504 in FIG. The initialization program stored in is executed. This initialization program includes a code fragment that performs processing such as when the power is turned on.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing such as when the power is turned on. Hereinafter, a description will be given with reference to the drawings.

  When the power is turned on or an initialization command is executed, a memory initialization process is started. When this process is started, the CPU 201 first checks whether or not a setting value is stored in a predetermined area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 (step S701).

  For example, when the nonvolatile storage unit 206 is configured by a flash EEPROM, the value is initialized to {0xff} when each area 220 of the flash EEPROM is erased. It can be carried out.

  Further, each time a setting value is saved in the area 220, if a value such as a checksum of a setting value or a CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) is stored in a storage area corresponding to the area 220, the setting value is more accurately It can be determined whether or not a set value is stored.

  When the set value is not stored (step S701; No), the factory default value stored in the ROM 202 or the setting of the dip switch 210 or the like is stored in the set value storage unit 205 of the RAM 204. The predetermined set value is stored (step S702), and this process is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the set value is stored (step S701; Yes), the set value is copied from the area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit to the set value storage unit 205 of the RAM 204 (step S703), and this process is terminated. To do.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment of the output system, the setting state of the output device can be set to the default value without sending command data when the power is turned on, and the system-specific setting different from the default value is set. The value can be changed automatically.

  Further, when a system-specific setting value different from the default value is specified, the setting value in the RAM returns to the default value even when the power of the output device is turned on again without the host device predicting. Therefore, the system automatically returns to the setting value unique to the system, so that an output system capable of stable operation can be constructed.

When there are a plurality of setting value storage areas 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206, it is necessary to determine which area 220 is used for processing such as when the power is turned on. For example, the following method can be considered for this determination.
(1) The head area 220 is always used.
(2) In order from the top area 220, it is checked whether or not the setting value is stored, and the area 220 that is first determined to be stored is used.
(3) The area number of the area 220 to be used is set and stored in another area of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 in advance.

  In the case of the third method, it is possible to prepare a command for designating the area number of the area 220 used in processing such as when the power is turned on. For example, if the output device is the printer 103, the command data “0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm” specifies the area number of the area 220 used in processing such as when the power is turned on when n = 3. It can be assumed that In this case, m is the area number of the area 220 to be used.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, N types of 1 to N can be designated as areas. When m = 0 is designated from the host apparatus 102, the stored area number is not valid as the area number. In this case, it is determined in step S701 that “the set value is not stored in the predetermined area”, and the factory default value is loaded from when the power is turned on.

(Third embodiment)
This embodiment is largely the same as the above embodiment, but differs in the following points. That is, the present embodiment is different in that a memo function is added to the output device and it is used to determine whether or not the application name of each application and the setting value for each application are stored.

  In the present embodiment, in addition to the above, the CPU 201 of the output device such as the printer 103 or the customer display 104 also functions as a set value information read control unit, and the interface 203 also functions as a transmission unit. The CPU 601 of the host device 102 also functions as a set value information read command generation unit and a save area control unit, and the interface 606 also functions as a reception unit.

  In the present embodiment, the following memo command is used. This is associated with each area 220 of the non-volatile storage unit 206 of the output device such as the printer 103 or the customer display 104, or the name of an application or the like is stored in each area 220, and is also stored from the output device. It is to read.

  In “0x1d 0x28 0x4d PL PH n m d1... Dk”, when n = 4, the application name d1... Dk is stored in association with the m-th area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 of the printer 103. .

  When “n = 5” in “0x1d 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm”, the application name stored in association with the mth area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 of the printer 103 is transmitted to the host apparatus 102.

  When “n = 4” in “0x1f 0x28 0x4d PL PH n m d1... Dk”, the application name d1... Dk is stored in association with the m-th area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 of the customer display 104. .

  When “n = 5” in “0x1f 0x28 0x4d 0x02 0x00 nm”, the application name stored in association with the mth area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 of the customer display 104 is transmitted to the host device 102.

  Here, the application name d1 ... dk is k bytes, and PL + PH × 256 = k + 2 holds. FIG. 7 shows each area 220 of the nonvolatile storage unit 206 and a state in which a plurality of application names are stored in association with the area.

  The application name is stored in the memo area 224. In the present embodiment, the memo area 224 is expressed as an array that stores application names in each element. When the number of areas 220 is N, the number of each element in the memo area 224 is also N. . In the figure, the first area 220 is allocated for the word processor, and the name “Word Processor” is stored in the first element of the memo area 224. The Nth area 220 is allocated for the graphic editor, and the name “Graphic Editor” is stored in the Nth element of the memo area 224.

  In the present embodiment, the memo area 224 is provided in addition to the area 220 for storing the setting value. However, a part of the setting value stored in the area 220 can be further used as the application name.

  According to the present embodiment, by storing setting value information for each setting value storage area 220 prepared in the nonvolatile storage unit 206, for each application or for each session (for example, data output for one document). The setting value can be stored, and the output device environment for each application or session can be easily set only by the initialization command transmitted when the application or session is started. Further, if the setting value information is designated by the memo command together with the setting value saving command, the host apparatus 102 can know whether or not the setting value for the application is stored.

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 101 ... Output system, 102 ... Host device, 103 ... Printer, 104 ... Customer display, 105 ... Communication line, 201 ... CPU, 202 ... ROM, 203 ... Interface, 204 ... RAM, 205 ... Setting value storage unit, 206 ... Non-volatile 207 ... output unit, 208 ... printing unit, 209 ... display unit, 210 ... dip switch, 601 ... CPU, 602 ... ROM, 603 ... external storage device, 604 ... RAM, 605 ... input device, 606 ... interface 607 ... Display device.

Claims (6)

Output comprising: one or both of a printer having a printing unit that prints characters or figures as an output device , a display having a display unit that displays characters or figures, and a host device connected thereto A system,
The host device transmits command data to the output device,
The output device includes a setting value storage unit that temporarily stores setting values, and a non-volatile storage unit that stores setting values in a nonvolatile manner,
The command data transmitted by the host device is data for designating whether the output device executing the command data is a printer or a display, and the command data for the printer and the command data for the display are common for the output device. data unit indicating a command, and has become to have a format including a parameter indicating that this command data is possible or settings load command is a set value save command,
The output device is
When receiving the command data transmitted from the host device , based on the data included in the received command data, check whether the command data is a command for the printer or a command for the display.
When the received command data is a customization command related to saving / loading of setting values, the type of command is examined based on the parameter of the customization command,
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value save command, the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit is stored in a nonvolatile storage unit,
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value load command, the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit is stored in the setting value storage unit,
When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output , the character or graphic is output with reference to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit ,
An output system characterized in that when the received command data is a command for an output device other than its own device, the command is not executed . When the command data transmitted by the host device is a customization command for the output device and is a set value save command and a set value load command, the command data is a set value save command or a set value load command. The output system according to claim 1, wherein the output system includes the same data except for a plurality of parameters including a parameter that means The command data transmitted by the host device is an area used by a set value save command or a set value load command following a parameter indicating that the command data is a set value save command or a set value load command. Including parameters indicating
The output device is
When the command data is the customization command, the included parameter is a value that means a set value save command, and includes a parameter that specifies one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the setting Storing the setting value stored in the value storage unit in the area indicated by the parameter;
When the command data is the customization command, the included parameter is a value meaning a set value load command, and includes a parameter that specifies one of a plurality of areas included in the nonvolatile storage unit, the parameter The output system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the setting value stored in the area indicated by is stored in the setting value storage unit. Is connected to a host device, a structured Ru output device as a display which includes a printer and a character or display unit for displaying a graphic having a printing unit for printing the characters or graphics,
A set value storage unit for temporarily storing set values;
A non-volatile storage unit that stores the set value in a non-volatile manner;
A receiving unit for receiving command data transmitted from the host device;
The received command data is a customization command for the output device that is common to data specifying whether the output device that executes the command data is a printer or a display, and command data for the printer and command data for the display. data unit indicating that, and a command data having a format including a parameter indicating that this command data is possible or settings load command is a set value save command, save and load settings If the command is a command for the printer or a command for the display based on the data included in the received command data, Comman originally Examine the types,
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value saving command, a setting value saving control unit that stores the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit in a nonvolatile storage unit;
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value load command, a setting value load control unit that stores the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit in the setting value storage unit;
If an output command the received command data to specify the character or graphics to be output, and an output unit for outputting the character or graphics refers to the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit ,
An output device characterized in that when the received command data is a command for an output device other than its own device, the command is not executed . A setting value storage unit that is connected to a host device and is configured as a printer having a printing unit that prints characters or figures and a display unit that displays characters or figures, and that temporarily stores setting values, and a setting A control method for controlling an output device comprising: a nonvolatile storage unit for storing values in a nonvolatile manner;
A receiving step of receiving command data transmitted from the host device;
The received command data is transmitted by the host device, the data specifying whether the output device that executes the command data is a printer or a display, and the command data for the printer and the command data for the display are common. Command data having a format including a data portion indicating a customization command for an output device and a parameter indicating that the command data is a setting value save command or a setting value load command. If the command is a customization command related to saving / loading of setting values , based on the data included in the received command data, the command data is checked whether it is a command for the printer or a command for the display. Parameters of the customization command A step of examining the kind of command over data to the original,
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value save command, a setting value saving step of storing the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit in a nonvolatile storage unit;
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value load command, a setting value loading step of storing the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit in the setting value storage unit;
When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, an output step for outputting the character or graphic with reference to a setting value stored in the setting value storage unit;
An output device control method comprising: A setting value storage unit that is connected to a host device and is configured as a printer having a printing unit that prints characters or figures and a display unit that displays characters or figures, and temporarily stores setting values; A non-volatile storage unit that stores a value in a nonvolatile manner, a computer-readable information recording medium that records a program for realizing a process for controlling an output device, and the process realized by the program includes:
A receiving procedure for receiving command data transmitted from the host device;
The received command data is transmitted by the host device, the data specifying whether the output device that executes the command data is a printer or a display, and the command data for the printer and the command data for the display are common. Command data having a format including a data portion indicating a customization command for an output device and a parameter indicating that the command data is a setting value save command or a setting value load command. If the command is a customization command related to saving / loading of setting values , based on the data included in the received command data, the command data is checked whether it is a command for the printer or a command for the display. Parameters of the customization command And procedures to determine the type of command over data to the original,
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value saving command, a setting value saving procedure for storing the setting value stored in the setting value storage unit in a nonvolatile storage unit;
When the parameter included in the customization command is a value meaning a setting value load command, a setting value loading procedure for storing the setting value stored in the nonvolatile storage unit in the setting value storage unit;
When the received command data is an output command for designating a character or graphic to be output, an output procedure for outputting the character or graphic with reference to a setting value stored in the setting value storage unit;
A program comprising:

Images