JP5018915B2 - Network system, network system control method, and program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention network system having a cable set to connect the device, between devices, a control method of Netw network system, a program.

In a network system to which a plurality of devices are connected, in order to identify a device to be communicated, a control address such as an IP address is written, or a hardware address assigned uniquely to a device such as a MAC address Is used. For this reason, when a device is replaced or a device arrangement is changed, an initial setting such as assigning an IP address to a new device or registering a MAC address assigned to the new device is performed each time. is necessary.

However, since this type of initial setting is difficult for a general user to perform and needs to be outsourced to a service provider, the maintenance cost increases. Therefore, as one of solutions to such a problem, an IP address setting method using DHCP that automatically assigns an IP address to each device connected to a network is known. However, this DH
Even if the CP is used, when an IP address is set according to the installation location, the IP address and the MAC address must be associated in advance. Work is required.

Further, as a method for easily setting an IP address, Patent Document 1 discloses that each device connected to a network automatically transmits an IP address to a management apparatus that manages the IP address when the power is turned on. Thus, a network system is disclosed in which an IP address setting operation for the management apparatus is unnecessary.

JP 2005-176279 A

In view of the above problems, and setting the control address corresponding to the location of each device, automatically be performed network system initial setting, the control method of Netw network system, to provide a program With the goal.

In view of the above problems, the present invention provides a network system, a communication system, an interface device, a cable set, a plug, and a communication line that can automatically perform initial settings such as setting of a control address according to the installation location of each device. Holding plate, network system control method,
It is an object of the present invention to provide a control method and program for a communication system.

The network system of the present invention is a network system having a cable set equipped with a non-volatile memory and a device to which the cable set is connected. There is provided a setting information reading means for reading setting information for performing initial setting, and an initial setting means for performing initial setting based on the read setting information.

The network system control method of the present invention is a network system control method including a cable set having a nonvolatile memory and a device to which the cable set is connected, and the cable to which the device is connected. From set non-volatile memory,
A step of reading setting information for performing initial setting of the device itself and a step of performing initial setting based on the read setting information are performed.

According to these configurations, the device reads the setting information for performing initial setting of itself from the nonvolatile memory mounted on the connected cable set (cable with nonvolatile memory), and based on the setting information. Initial settings can be made automatically. That is, since it is not necessary to perform initial setting work manually, the maintenance cost of the network system can be reduced. It is also effective when performing initial settings (such as control address settings) according to the installation location of each device.

In the above network system, the setting information reading means outputs the setting information when any one or a plurality of conditions are satisfied when the device is turned on, when the cable set is connected, or when the initial setting of the device is started. It is preferable to read.

According to this configuration, according to the contents of the setting information and according to the user's convenience, when the device is turned on, when the cable set is connected, or when the initial setting of the device is started, any one or more of The configuration information can be read out when the condition is satisfied.

In the above network system, the setting information includes communication speed, communication conditions including the presence / absence of parity and data length, interface type, cable set communication line arrangement, device control address, device nickname, device operation mode, encryption Key,
It is preferable to include any one or a plurality of pieces of information among serial numbers unique to the nonvolatile memory.

According to this configuration, the device has a communication speed, communication conditions including the presence / absence of parity and data length, interface type, cable line communication line arrangement, device control address (IP address, etc.), device nickname (domain name) Etc.) Initial setting based on one or more information of device operation mode (when device needs to select operation mode), encryption key, and non-volatile memory specific serial number Can do.

In the above network system, part or all of the setting information is preferably encrypted based on information associated with a part of the setting information.

  According to this configuration, unauthorized reading of the nonvolatile memory can be prevented.

In the network system, the device includes setting information storage means for storing setting information in a nonvolatile manner, setting information writing means for writing the setting information stored in the setting information storage means in the nonvolatile memory, a cable set, The consistency of the setting information stored in the setting information storage means and the nonvolatile memory is confirmed by communicating with the device. If consistency cannot be obtained, the setting information reading means and the setting information writing means are cooperated. Work,
It is preferable to further include a copy means for copying the setting information stored in the setting information storage means or the non-volatile memory to the other according to a predetermined rule.

According to this configuration, the consistency of the setting information stored in the nonvolatile memory and the setting information storage unit of the device can be maintained. In addition, the convenience in performing the initial setting can be enhanced in accordance with the “predetermined law”.

In the above network system, it is preferable that the predetermined rule includes a rule of copying from a side where the setting information is written to a side where the setting information is not written.

According to this configuration, the cable set in which the setting information is not written in the nonvolatile memory can be connected to the device, and the setting information of the device can be copied to the nonvolatile memory.
As a result, when a device is replaced, the copied setting information is copied from the cable set to the new device (provided that the setting information has not been written to the new device). The configured setting information can be transferred to a new device.

In the above network system, the device includes setting information storage means and output means for outputting the setting information stored in the nonvolatile memory, and instruction acquisition means for acquiring a user instruction for output. The law preferably includes a law for copying information in accordance with an instruction from the instruction acquisition means.

According to this configuration, even when the setting information stored in the non-volatile memory and the setting information storage unit of the device does not match due to device replacement or the like, it can be left to the user to determine which setting information to match. it can. Therefore, even a device in which setting information is written in the setting information storage means can be used as a new device.

In the above network system, the nonvolatile memory is configured by RFID,
The setting information reading unit and the setting information writing unit preferably read and write the setting information via wireless communication. Also, it is desirable that some or all of the setting information reading means and setting information writing means from the RFID are used for reading and writing user IDs and product IDs in addition to reading and writing RFIDs for network setting information.

According to this configuration, a communication cable for reading and writing the nonvolatile memory (RFID) is not required in the cable set, so that a general-purpose cable can be used.

In the above network system, the RFID is preferably mounted on a cable name tag attached to the cable set.

According to this configuration, the RFID can be easily mounted (attached) to the cable set, and at the same time, the operator can easily check information such as a nickname of a device that can be disclosed. Become.

In the above network system, the device includes a connection port to which a cable set is connected. The cable set is a cable-side read / write dedicated communication line used for reading / writing setting information with respect to the nonvolatile memory, and the device and other communication. A cable side normal use communication line and a cable side read / write dedicated communication line and a cable side normal use communication line, and a device side read / write dedicated communication line and device side respectively connected When a cable set including a normal use communication line and not including a cable side read / write dedicated communication line is connected, it is preferable that the device side read / write only communication line does not function but only the device side normal use communication line functions.

According to this configuration, normal communication (communication other than setting information reading / writing) is performed even when a cable set not equipped with a nonvolatile memory, that is, a cable not equipped with a cable-side read / write dedicated communication line is connected. be able to.

In the above network system, it is preferable that some or all of the communication lines provided in the cable set are also used as the cable side read / write dedicated communication line and the cable side normal use communication line.

According to this configuration, the number of communication lines to be added for the cable side read / write dedicated communication line and the device side read / write only communication line can be reduced or eliminated.

In the above network system, it is preferable that the cable side read / write dedicated communication line is constituted by a single communication line having a common power line and signal line.

According to this configuration, the number of communication lines for the cable side read / write only communication line and the device side read / write only communication line can be limited to one or two, including GND.

In the above network system, the non-volatile memory is preferably mounted on a plug attached to the device side end of the cable set.

According to this configuration, the length of the cable side read / write dedicated communication line can be shortened as much as possible,
As a result, signal degradation can be reduced. Further, since the non-volatile memory only needs to be mounted on the plug, mounting (attachment) can be easily performed.

In the above network system, the plug is preferably an RJ45 type, and one cable side read / write dedicated communication line is additionally arranged at both ends of the eight cable side normal use communication lines.

According to this configuration, in the RJ45 type plug, a total of two cable-side read / write dedicated communication lines at both ends are applied to the present invention, so that connection ports connectable to 10 communication lines are provided. The device of the present invention having the present invention can connect both a normal cable having eight communication lines and a cable set for the present invention having ten communication lines (a cable equipped with a nonvolatile memory).

In the above network system, the cable set includes a general-purpose cable and a conversion adapter having a plug for connecting to the device, a nonvolatile memory, and a jack for connecting to the general-purpose cable. Is preferred.

According to this configuration, a cable set applicable to the present invention can be configured easily and inexpensively by simply connecting the conversion adapter to a general-purpose cable.

The above network system further includes a hub having one or more ports to which the other end of the cable set connected to the device is connected. It is preferable to mount the non-volatile memory.

According to this configuration, it is not necessary to mount the nonvolatile memory on the cable by using the hub on which the nonvolatile memory for each port is mounted. In addition, by determining the installation location of the device to be connected for each port, it is possible to set appropriate setting information even when the setting information differs for each installation location.

In the above network system, the hub preferably includes a control CPU for controlling each nonvolatile memory and a network controller for communicating with a network device connected to each port.

According to these configurations, a nonvolatile memory in which setting information for devices connected to each port is stored, a network controller that communicates with a network device connected to each port when communication is established, and controls them By using a hub equipped with a control CPU, general-purpose plugs and cables can be used.

Another network system of the present invention is a network system having a network hub equipped with a non-volatile memory and a device connected to the hub.
A setting information reading unit that reads setting information for performing initial setting of a device connected to each port on the hub from the mounted nonvolatile memory, and communicates with the device based on the read setting information. Setting information transmitting means for transmitting the read setting information to the device, and the device performs initial setting based on the setting information acquiring means for acquiring the setting information transmitted by the setting information transmitting means and the acquired setting information. And initial setting means for performing.

According to this configuration, the device can read the setting information for performing its own initial setting from the non-volatile memory mounted on the hub, and can automatically perform the initial setting based on the setting information. That is, since it is not necessary to perform initial setting work manually, the maintenance cost of the network system can be reduced. In addition, by determining the installation location of the device to be connected for each port, it is possible to set appropriate setting information even when the setting information differs for each installation location. When the device and the hub are connected by cable, a general-purpose cable can be used.

In the above network system, the setting information transmission means communicates with the device connected to each port of the hub by a one-to-one connection at the start of communication between the hub and the device, and transmits the setting information. preferable.

According to this configuration, since communication is performed with a device connected to each port of the hub through a one-to-one connection, control is easy.

In the above network system, the setting information includes communication speed, communication conditions including parity and data length, interface type, device control address, device nickname, device operation mode, encryption key, and non-volatile memory specific It is preferable to include any one or a plurality of pieces of information.

According to this configuration, the device has a communication speed, communication conditions including parity and data length, interface type, device control address (such as IP address), device nickname (such as domain name), and device operation mode. (When the device needs to select an operation mode), an initial setting based on any one or a plurality of pieces of information among the encryption key and the serial number unique to the nonvolatile memory can be performed.

In the above network system, part or all of the setting information is preferably encrypted based on information associated with a part of the setting information.

  According to this configuration, unauthorized reading of the nonvolatile memory can be prevented.

In the network system, the device includes setting information storage means for storing setting information in a nonvolatile manner, and setting information writing means for writing the setting information stored in the setting information storage means in a nonvolatile memory mounted on the hub. If the consistency between the setting information stored in the setting information storage means and the non-volatile memory is not confirmed by performing communication between the hub and the device. It is preferable to further include a copying unit that cooperates with the writing unit and copies the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit or the nonvolatile memory to the other in accordance with a predetermined rule.

According to this configuration, the consistency of the setting information stored in the nonvolatile memory and the setting information storage unit of the device can be maintained. In addition, the convenience in performing the initial setting can be enhanced in accordance with the “predetermined law”.

In the above network system, it is preferable that the predetermined rule includes a rule of copying from a side where the setting information is written to a side where the setting information is not written.

According to this configuration, it is possible to connect a hub and a device in which setting information is not written in the nonvolatile memory, and copy the setting information of the device to the nonvolatile memory. As a result, when a device is replaced, the copied setting information is copied from the hub to the new device (provided that the setting information has not been written to the new device). The setting information that has been stored can be transferred to a new device.

In the above network system, the device includes setting information storage means and output means for outputting the setting information stored in the nonvolatile memory, and instruction acquisition means for acquiring a user instruction for output. The law preferably includes a law for copying information in accordance with an instruction from the instruction acquisition means.

According to this configuration, even when the setting information stored in the non-volatile memory and the setting information storage unit of the device does not match due to device replacement or the like, it can be left to the user to determine which setting information to match. it can. Therefore, even a device in which setting information is written in the setting information storage means can be used as a new device.

In the above network system, the device includes a connection port to which a cable set is connected, and the cable set includes an RFID, a cable side normal use communication line used for performing communication other than reading and writing of setting information with the device, And the connection port includes an RFID and a cable side normal use communication line, and an RFID read / write device and a device side normal use communication line, respectively. It is preferable that the device does not function and only the device side normal use communication line functions.

According to this configuration, even when a cable set not equipped with RFID is connected,
Normal communication (communication other than reading and writing of setting information) can be performed.

In the above network system, some or all of the RFID read / write devices
It is preferable to use also as an RFID read / write device for user ID or product ID authentication.

According to this configuration, the RFID read / write device can be used in addition to the read / write of the nonvolatile memory.

A communication system of the present invention is a communication system having a device and an RFID tag that is attached to a device installation location and stores setting information for initial setting of the device. The apparatus includes: setting information reading means for reading setting information via wireless communication; and initial setting means for performing initial setting based on the read setting information.

The communication system control method of the present invention is a control method for a communication system that includes a device and an RFID tag that is affixed to the device installation location and stores setting information for initial setting of the device. The device reads setting information from the RFID via wireless communication, and performs initial setting based on the read setting information;
It is characterized by performing.

According to these configurations, the setting information can be read from the RFID tag attached to the installation location of the device, and the initial setting can be automatically performed based on the setting information. In other words, since it is not necessary to perform initial setting work manually, the maintenance cost of the device can be reduced. Further, even when the setting information is different for each installation location, it is possible to set appropriate setting information. Furthermore, since a simple configuration of only a device having a wireless communication function and an RFID tag is sufficient, the system can be constructed at low cost.

The interface device of the present invention functions as a device in the network system described in any one of the above items or the communication system described above, and is detachably attached to an electronic apparatus.

According to this configuration, the network system or communication system of the present invention can be constructed without changing the electronic device.

The cable set of the present invention is used in the network system described in any one of the above items.

The plug of the present invention is used in the network system described above.

The communication line holding plate of the present invention is used for the plug described above, is equipped with a nonvolatile memory, and holds a cable side read / write dedicated communication line and a cable side normal use communication line.

The program of the present invention is a program for causing a computer to execute each step in the network system control method described above or the communication system control method described above.

By using these, it is possible to construct the network system of the present invention that can automatically perform the initial setting.

1 is a system configuration diagram of a POS system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is an external appearance perspective view of a printer and a cable set. It is an external perspective view of a printer, a conversion adapter, and a cable. It is an enlarged plan view around the communication line holding plate inside the plug. 1 is a functional block diagram of a network system according to a first embodiment. It is a circuit diagram of the network system in the 1st example concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a circuit diagram of the network system in the 2nd example concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a circuit diagram of the network system in the 3rd example concerning a 1st embodiment. It is a circuit diagram of a non-volatile memory module. It is a flowchart which shows the control method of the network system which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a circuit diagram which shows the other example of a network system. It is a figure which shows the cable set carrying RFID. It is a figure which shows communication with the RFID tag affixed on the installation place of a printer. It is a functional block diagram of the power supply system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the control method of the power supply system which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram of the network system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a figure for demonstrating registration of the MAC address to a hub. It is a flowchart which shows the control method of the network system which concerns on 3rd Embodiment.

Hereinafter, a network system, a communication system, an interface device, a cable set, a plug, a communication line holding plate, a network system control method according to an embodiment of the present invention,
A communication system control method and program will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The present invention is a method for performing initial setting of a device that requires initial setting from a non-volatile memory existing outside the device (installed in a cable connected to the device or the installation location of the device). The setting information is read out, and the initial setting can be automatically performed based on the setting information. In view of this, a case where the network system of the present invention is applied to a POS system used in a store such as a supermarket or a convenience store will be described below as an example.

FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a POS system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in the figure, the POS system 1 is a personal computer POS that performs settlement processing and control of peripheral devices.
10, a printer 20 that prints receipts and / or coupons, a customer display 30 that presents an amount of money to a customer, and a cash drawer 40 that accommodates money
A hub 50 connected to a keyboard 50 for inputting a product code, a price, etc., a plurality of personal computers POS 10 (only one is shown in the figure), and a plurality of printers 20 (only one is shown in the figure); A POS server 7 connected via the hub 60 and controlling the above-mentioned terminals.
0.

Various forms of power supply to each device are conceivable. In the example shown in the figure, power supplies PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS4 are connected to the personal computer POS10, printer 20, hub 60, and POS server 70, respectively. The customer display 30, cash drawer 40, and keyboard 50 are supplied with power from the printer 20 via cable sets C3, C4, and C5 (LAN cables with nonvolatile memory modules). .

An interface board 21 (see FIG. 2) having a plurality of interfaces (connection ports) is detachably attached to the printer 20.
By exchanging 1, various functions can be easily expanded at low cost. Also,
The customer display 30, the cash drawer 40 and the keyboard 50 are connected via the interface board 21.

The plugs P (see FIG. 2) of the cable sets C1 to C6 that connect the devices are mounted with nonvolatile memory modules M1 to M6 in which various pieces of information are stored. Information stored in the nonvolatile memory module M and a method of using the information will be described in detail for each embodiment. First, in the first embodiment, initial setting of a device using the nonvolatile memory module M is performed. A method will be described. The type of device for which the initial setting is performed is not particularly limited. In the following, an example of an initial setting method for the printer 20 using the cable set C2 (network system 101, see FIG. 5) will be described.

FIG. 2 shows a printer 20 (main body), an interface board 21 and a cable set C.
FIG. As shown in the figure, the printer 20 is provided with a mounting slot 22 for mounting the interface board 21 on the back surface thereof, and a receipt or coupon (hereinafter referred to as “printed matter 24”) on the top surface portion. A discharge port 23 for discharging is provided. Further, on the front side of the upper surface portion, there are operation buttons 25 for performing various operations including a power button.
Is arranged. Further, the interface board 21 includes a connection port 90 (connector 91, see FIG. 6) into which a plug P1 of a cable set C2 described later is inserted.

The cable set C2 has RJ45 type plugs P1 and P2 (modular connectors) at both ends, the printer side plug P1 has 10 pins, and the hub side plug P2 has 8 pins.
This pin. Usually, since the RJ45 type plug has 8 pins, the hub side plug P2 can be a general purpose one. On the other hand, the printer-side plug P1 has a configuration in which one pin (communication line) is added (additional arrangement) to both ends of the eight pins in the general-purpose plug, and the two pins are non-volatile. Read and write to the memory module M.

FIG. 3 shows a nonvolatile memory module M (instead of the cable set C2 shown in FIG.
(Not shown) Consists of a conversion adapter A having a 10-pin plug P1 and an 8-pin jack P3, and a general-purpose cable C2B having an 8-pin plug P1B and an 8-pin plug P2 at both ends. Has been. On the other hand, the plug P1 of the conversion adapter A has a configuration in which one pin (communication line) is added (additional arrangement) to both ends of the eight pins in the general-purpose plug P1B. Reading from and writing to the nonvolatile memory module M is performed. On the other hand, as the 8-pin jack P3 on the general-purpose cable side of the conversion adapter A, a general-purpose jack used in the hub 60 can be used.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged plan view around the communication line holding plate 81 in the 10-pin plug P1 shown in FIGS. The figure (a) is the back surface of the communication line holding | maintenance board 81 seen from the upper side (pin arrangement surface side) of the plug P1, and the figure (b) is from the lower side (surface side with a locking tool) of the plug P1. The surface of the communication line holding plate 81 as viewed is shown. In both figures, the arrow (
The left side shows the insertion direction to the device (printer 20). Therefore, the right side in the figure is the cable connection side.

As shown in both figures, in the plug P1, ten communication lines 80 having pin numbers 0 to 9 are held on the back surface of the communication line holding plate 81. Among these, eight of the pin numbers 1 to 8 are cable side normal use communication lines 83 used for communication between devices, and two of the pin numbers 0 and 9 on both sides thereof are the nonvolatile memory 122. Cable side read / write dedicated communication lines 82a and 82b used for reading and writing (see FIG. 9). A nonvolatile memory module M obtained by modularizing the nonvolatile memory 122 is held on the surface.

The cable side read / write dedicated communication lines 82a and 82b are led out from the back surface of the communication line holding plate 81 through the communication line holding plate 81 to the front side, and lead frames 85 formed on both ends of the nonvolatile memory module M. Connected by soldering. Therefore, the eight cable side normal use communication lines 83 with pin numbers 1 to 8 are connected by cable.

As described above, the 10-pin plug P1 of the present invention is manufactured by resin-molding the entire communication line holding plate 81 to which the 10 communication lines 80 and the nonvolatile memory module M are attached. . In this way, by holding the nonvolatile memory module M on the communication line holding plate 81 in the plug P1, the nonvolatile memory module M can be easily mounted and the cable side read / write dedicated communication lines 82a and 82b. Can be shortened, and as a result, signal degradation can be reduced. Of course, instead of the communication lines 82a and 82b, the lead of the nonvolatile memory module M can be drawn out and directly connected to the pin of the plug P1.

Next, the control configuration of the network system 101 will be described with reference to FIG. As described above, the plugs P1 and P2 are attached to both ends of the cable set C2. The plug P1 on the printer side includes the nonvolatile memory module M2, the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82, and the cable side normal use communication line. 83.

The non-volatile memory module M2 is used as information for performing the initial setting of the printer 20.
An IP address and operation mode information are stored. Such information can be written or erased by a dedicated device. It is also possible to read out these information stored in the printer 20 (setting information storage means 97 described later) and write it in the nonvolatile memory module M2. The “operation mode information” is information relating to whether the printer 20 is set to a receipt mode that functions for issuing a receipt or a coupon mode that functions for issuing a coupon.

As described above, the cable-side read / write dedicated communication line 82 is a communication line (82 with pin numbers 0 and 9).
a, 82b, see FIG. 4), which is connected to a device-side read / write communication line 92, which will be described later, and is used for communication between the nonvolatile memory module M2 and setting information storage means 97, which will be described later. The cable-side normal use communication line 83 is a communication line having pin numbers 1 to 8, and any device connected to the printer 20 and the other end of the cable set C2 (in this embodiment,
Used for communication with the hub 60 (see FIG. 1 or 2).

On the other hand, the printer 20 includes setting information reading means 94, setting information writing means 95, copying means 96, setting information storage means 97, and initial setting means 98 in addition to the connection port 90 to which the plug P1 is connected. Yes. Each of these means 94 to 98 functions not by the printer body but by the interface board 21.

The connection port 90 includes the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 and the cable side normal use communication line 83, and the device side read / write dedicated communication line 92 and the device side normal use communication line 93, respectively. Also, according to the module type of plug P1,
An RJ45 type connector 91 (see FIG. 6) is attached.

The setting information reading unit 94 reads setting information (IP address and operation mode information) from the nonvolatile memory module M2 via the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 and the device side read / write only communication line 92. Also, the setting information writing means 95 writes the setting information stored in the setting information storage means 97 to the nonvolatile memory module M2 through the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 and the device side read / write only communication line 92.

The copying unit 96 cooperates with the setting information reading unit 94 and the setting information writing unit 95 to set the setting information stored in the nonvolatile memory module M2 or the setting information storage unit 97 to the other according to a predetermined rule. Duplicate. In the case of this embodiment, “predetermined law” means that if setting information is written in one and not written in the other, the setting information is written to the one not written In addition, when setting information is written in both, the setting information of both is printed on the printed matter 24 (see FIG. 2), and the user's instruction confirming the printing result (pressing the operation button 25, see FIG. 2). According to
Refers to copying any information to the other.

The setting information storage unit 97 is read (copied) from the nonvolatile memory module M2.
The setting information is stored in a nonvolatile manner. Therefore, no information is written in a new state (a state before the cable set C2 is connected for the first time after shipment).

The initial setting unit 98 performs initial setting based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 97. In the present embodiment, “initial setting” refers to setting of an IP address and setting of an operation mode.

Next, the circuit configuration of the network system 101 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 shows circuit configurations of the cable set C2 and the interface board 21, and FIG.
These respectively show the circuit configurations of the nonvolatile memory module M2.

As shown in FIG. 6, the cable set C2 has RJ45 type plugs P1, P2 at both ends.
(The printer-side plug P1 has 10 pins and the hub-side plug P2 has 8 pins), and adopts the 100BASE-T4 standard of Ethernet (registered trademark). 100BASE
-T4 standard is 4 of pin number 1-2, pin number 3-6, pin number 4-5, pin number 7-8
A pair of twisted pair cables is used, three of which are used for data transfer (for transmission and reception) and the other for collision detection.

The printer-side plug P1 has a nonvolatile memory module M2 connected to pin numbers 0 and 9. As shown in FIG. 9, the non-volatile memory module M2 includes 1−
A wire line (connection of one communication line) enables power supply and communication, and a non-volatile memory 122 for storing setting information and a memory for controlling reading and writing of information to and from the non-volatile memory 122 Controller 121 and parasitic power supply circuit 1 for supplying power to them
23. Further, the pin number 0 (communication line 82a) of the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 is used as the 1-Wire line, and the pin number 9 (communication line 82b) is used as the GND line.

The parasitic power supply circuit 123 operates so as to capture charge during the high level period of the 1-Wire waveform (variable pulse width serial communication for data I / O) and prevent backflow for the device power supply during the low level period. In addition to the above setting information, the non-changeable 64-bit serial number unique to the non-volatile memory module is written in the non-volatile memory 122, and is also used for identifying the device (cable set C2) as the final product. Can be done.

On the other hand, the hub-side plug P2 is an 8-pin plug, as shown in FIG. 6, and is connected to an RJ45 type modular connector 61 (see FIG. 2) provided in the hub 60. Also,
The hub 60 includes a hub controller 62 that controls communication via eight normally used communication lines.

Further, the interface board 21 of the printer 20 is connected to the 10-pin plug P1 described above.
10-pin RJ45 type modular connector 91, a network control circuit 110 for controlling signals inputted to and outputted from the interface board 21, and a power supply circuit 112 for connecting them.

The network control circuit 110 performs initial setting based on setting information read / written via the device-side read / write dedicated communication line 92 of pin numbers 0 and 9, and also via the PHY controller 111 and the device-side normal use communication line 93. Control communication with the hub 60 (hub controller). Note that the setting information reading means 94, setting information writing means 95, copying means 96, setting information storage means 97, and initial setting means 98 shown in FIG. 5 function as the main part of the network control circuit 110.

Next, a control method of the network system 101 mainly controlled by the network control circuit 110 will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG. When the cable set C2 is connected to the interface board 21, the network control circuit 110 (
When the plug P1 of the cable set C2 is inserted into the connection port 90 (10-pin RJ45 type connector 91) (S11), it is determined whether or not the setting information is written in the setting information storage means 97 (see FIG. 5). (S12). When the setting information is written in the setting information storage unit 97 (S12: Yes), the setting information is written into the nonvolatile memory module M2 via the device side read / write dedicated communication line 92 and the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82. It is discriminate | determined whether it is (S13).

Here, when the setting information is written in the nonvolatile memory module M2, that is, when the setting information is written in both the setting information storage unit 97 and the nonvolatile memory module M2 (S13: Yes), the setting information is written in these. The written setting information is printed as text data on the printed matter 24 (S14). Based on the print contents, the user determines which setting information written in the setting information storage unit 97 or the nonvolatile memory module M2 is to be used, and presses the operation button 25 (instruction acquisition unit) of the printer 20. Press. Here, it is assumed that “button 1” is pressed when the setting information of the setting information storage unit 97 is used, and “button 2” is pressed when the setting information of the nonvolatile memory module M2 is used.

Therefore, when “button 1” is pressed by the user (S15: button 1), the setting information written in the setting information storage unit 97 is written (copied and overwritten) in the nonvolatile memory module M2 (S16). ), The process is terminated. That is, in this case, the initial setting is not performed, and the existing setting information stored in the printer side (setting information storage unit 97) is used.

When “button 2” is pressed by the user (S15: button 2), the setting information written in the nonvolatile memory module M2 is written into the setting information storage means 97 (copied and overwritten). Initial settings are made (S17), and the process is terminated.

On the other hand, when the setting information is not written in the setting information storage unit 97 (S12: No)
Then, it is determined whether or not the setting information is written in the nonvolatile memory module M2 (S18).
If it has been written (S18: Yes), the setting information written in the nonvolatile memory module M2 is written (copied) in the setting information storage means 97 to perform initial setting (S17) and processing Exit. If the setting information is not written in both the setting information storage unit 97 and the nonvolatile memory module M2 (S18: No), the process is terminated without reading / writing the setting information.

As described above, the network system 101 according to the present embodiment automatically performs initial setting according to a predetermined rule by connecting the cable set C2 on which the nonvolatile memory module M2 is mounted. Can be reduced. POS
If the printer 20 connected to the network of the system 1 breaks down, the cable set C2 is removed, and the setting information of the printer 20 is copied to the nonvolatile memory module M2 of the cable set C2. Since the same setting information can be written in the printer 20 (the information that has not been written in the setting information storage means 97),
This is convenient when the IP address is determined for each setting location (an arbitrary cable).

In the above example, as illustrated in FIG. 6, a case of using a 100BASE-T4 standard cable is illustrated. However, as illustrated in FIG. 11, a 100BASE-TX standard cable may be used. The 100BASE-TX standard includes pin number 1-2 and pin number 3-6-2.
A pair of twisted pair cables is used, one of which is used for data transmission and the other is used for data reception. Further, as the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 and the device side read / write only communication line 93, pin numbers 5 and 8 that are not used as the cable side normal use communication line 83 and the device side normal use communication line 93 are used, Number 5 is used as the 1-Wire line of the nonvolatile memory module M2, and pin number 8 is used as the GND line.

Note that the read / write dedicated communication lines 82 and 92 do not necessarily function as a power line and a signal line.
There is no need to use a wire line, and a configuration in which a power line, a signal line, a GND line and three or more communication lines are additionally arranged in addition to the normal use communication lines 83 and 93 may be used. Further, instead of additionally arranging the read / write dedicated communication lines 82 and 92, a part or all of the existing normal use communication lines 83 and 93 may be used as the read / write dedicated communication lines 82 and 92.

Also, the cable standard is not limited to the above example, and 10BASE-T and 1000BASE
-The T standard may be used, or other than Ethernet (registered trademark) specifications. Accordingly, the shapes of the plugs and connectors are not limited to the above example.

In the above example, the nonvolatile memory module M is mounted on the plug P1, but it may be mounted inside or outside the cable cover.

Further, the nonvolatile memory module M mounted on the hub 60 instead of the cable set C2.
The initial setting of the printer 20 may be performed based on the setting information written in c. As shown in FIG. 7, in this case, the cable set has 10-pin plugs P at both ends.
1c and P2c are used and the non-volatile memory module M is not mounted (C
c) The hub 60 includes a plurality of 10-pin RJ45 type connectors 61c (only two shown),
A device provided with a hub standard circuit 65 and a nonvolatile memory module Mc provided for each connector 61c (for each port) is used. However, in this case, since the cable length of the cable side read / write dedicated communication lines 82a and 82b becomes longer, it is preferable to take measures to prevent signal degradation.

Further, as shown in FIG. 8, a general-purpose cable Cd provided with 8-pin plugs P1d and P2d at both ends can be used. That is, on the hub 60, connectors 61 (ports)
A non-volatile memory module Md, a network controller 503 that communicates with a network device connected to each connector 61, and an input / output controller 502 (control CPU) that controls input / output of data to / from the non-volatile memory module Md. Mount. The input / output controller 502 is selected when the reset 501 after power-on is released or when the port monitoring signal 505 from the hub controller 62 notifies the connection of the network device to each connector 61 (each port). While switching the switch 504, the network device connected to each connector 61 and the network controller 5
03, and communicates information stored in the nonvolatile memory module Md to the network control circuit 110 on the printer side (setting information transmission means). That is, the hub 60
Communication with the network device 110 connected to each connector 61 of the hub 60 in a one-to-one connection at the start of communication between the printer 20 (interface board 21) and the setting information read from the nonvolatile memory module Md. The information may be transmitted to the connected network device 110. On the other hand, the interface board 2 on the printer side
1d acquires the information (setting information acquisition means), and rewrites, selects, and copies the contents stored in the initial setting processing (setting information storage means 97 (see FIG. 5)) by the network control circuit 110 based on the information. Etc.). According to this configuration, the network system 101 of the present embodiment can be constructed with a simple configuration including only the printer 20 and the hub 60 and using general-purpose plugs and cables. Further, the interface board 21d can adopt a general-purpose 8-pin connector 91d, and the circuit configuration can be simplified as compared with the examples of FIGS.

In the above example, the device-side read / write communication line 92 and the cable-side read / write communication line 82 are used to read / write the nonvolatile memory module M. However, as the nonvolatile memory module M, RFID ( Radio Frequency Identification)
The read / write dedicated communication lines 82 and 92 may be omitted. However, in this case, a reader / writer (RFID reader / writer) for wireless communication with RFID
Must be installed on the printer side. However, when applied to the POS system 1 as in the present embodiment, a reader / writer for performing reading and writing of member cards equipped with RFID and various authentications (authentication of user IDs, product IDs, credit cards, etc.). By using, there is no need to add a special device for reading and writing the nonvolatile memory module M, and the cost required for system construction can be suppressed. In this case, RFID
When a cable set not equipped with is connected, the reader / writer mounted on the printer side does not function, and only the device side normal use communication line 93 functions.

Further, as described above, RFID can also be applied when the non-volatile memory module M for each port is mounted on the hub 60. In this case, the printer 20 (interface board 21) and the hub 60 are The structure connected by radio | wireless communication may be sufficient.

Further, when RFID is used, the degree of freedom of arrangement (mounting) of the nonvolatile memory module M can be further increased. For example, as shown in FIG. 12A, an RFID tag is attached to a cable name tag 130 (name tag describing a device name to be connected) attached to a cable.
140 may be mounted and the setting information written thereto may be read out. However, in this case, since the position of the cable name tag 130 is not determined and there is a balance between reading and writing of the membership card, it is preferable to expand the communication range by using a plurality of reader / writer antennas.

Further, as shown in FIG. 6B, the RFID 140 may be embedded in a label 131 that is attached around the cable instead of the cable name tag 130. According to this configuration, the nonvolatile memory module M can be mounted more easily and inexpensively.

Further, instead of mounting the RFID 140 on the cable set C2 or the hub 60, FIG.
As shown in FIG. 3, an RFID 140 tag is affixed to the installation location of the printer 20, such as the printer installation table 27, and the RFID 140 and a reader / writer via the antenna 26 (in the figure, the reader / writer is built-in). The present invention may be applied to a communication system that reads and writes setting information by communication with an example). According to this configuration, it is possible to set appropriate setting information even when the setting information is different for each installation location. Furthermore, since a simple configuration including only the device (printer 20) having the reader / writer and the RFID 140 is sufficient, the system can be constructed at low cost.

In the above example, the IP address and the operation mode (receipt mode or coupon mode) are set as the setting information. However, the operation mode may be three or more, and only the IP address is operated. Only one of the settings such as the mode may be set. In addition to the above IP address and operation mode, the setting information includes communication speed, communication conditions including the presence / absence of parity and data length, interface type, communication line arrangement (power supply line and communication line) of the cable set C2, A device nickname (such as a domain name), an encryption key, a serial number unique to a nonvolatile memory, and the like may be read and used for initial settings.

The printer 20 may be provided with a password for reading / writing the nonvolatile memory module M, and the nonvolatile memory module M may prohibit reading / writing from a device that does not have the password.

Further, part or all of the setting information written in the nonvolatile memory may be encrypted based on information associated with a part of the setting information. In this case, after encrypting a part or all of the setting information using a unique 64-bit serial number of the nonvolatile memory module M and a publicly available product code, the 64-bit serial number is transferred to the network. It is preferable to transmit the data to a serial number verification server (not shown) and verify its validity and uniqueness. Alternatively, a product code may be used to acquire a product-specific encryption key from a predetermined Web server and encrypt it using a combination of the encryption key and serial number. In addition, when the encryption key is acquired through the network in this way, SS
It is preferable to use encrypted communication such as L. According to these configurations, unauthorized reading of the nonvolatile memory module M can be prevented.

In the above example, the execution of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 is started when the cable set C2 is connected. However, the execution is started when the printer 20 is turned on or when the initial setting of the printer 20 is started. Also good. When connecting these cable sets C2,
It may be executed when a plurality of conditions are satisfied when the printer 20 is turned on or when the initial setting of the printer 20 is started.

Further, the network control circuit 110 in the interface board 21 causes the network control circuit 110 shown in FIG.
However, the control may be performed on the printer main body side. That is, the connection port 90, the setting information reading means 94, the setting information writing means 95, the copying means 96, the setting information storage means 97, and the initial setting means 98 shown in the block diagram of FIG. May be.

In the above example, the network system 101 including the printer 20 and the cable set C2 is illustrated. However, the cable C1 in which the nonvolatile memory module M1 is mounted or the cable C6 in which the nonvolatile memory module M6 is mounted (see FIG. 1). The present invention can also be applied to the initial setting of the personal computer POS10 using In addition, when initializing the communication condition and the signal line type, the cable C3 with the nonvolatile memory M3 is used.
, Cable C4 with nonvolatile memory M4, or cable C with nonvolatile memory M5
5 may be used for initial setting of the printer 20. Also, cables C3, C4, C5
Customer display side, cash drawer side, keyboard side (cable C3
, C4, and C5, the other side of the illustrated M3, M4, and M5) is a non-volatile memory module M
Equipped with a customer display 30, a cash drawer 40, and a keyboard 50, respectively.
It is also possible to perform initial setting. That is, the type of device and setting information is not limited.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, a device such as the printer 20 performs its initial setting from the nonvolatile memory module M mounted on the connected cable set C2 (cable with nonvolatile memory module). It is possible to read setting information to be performed and automatically perform initial setting based on the setting information. That is, since it is not necessary to perform the initial setting work manually, the maintenance cost of the network system 101 can be reduced.

When information is written in both the setting information storage unit 97 and the nonvolatile memory module M, the setting information stored in both is printed out and the user determines which setting information to match. Can be entrusted to. Therefore, even a device in which setting information is written in the setting information storage unit 97 can be used as a new device (device after replacement). Note that the output form of the setting information can be changed depending on the device. For example, in the case of a display, the setting information can be output by displaying the setting information. Also,
In the case of simple setting information, it is also possible to output information using LEDs, electronic sounds, or the like.

In addition, since the cable set C2 uses RJ45 type plugs P and connectors, a cable set C that does not include the nonvolatile memory module M, that is, a cable that does not include the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 92 is connected. The center 8
Normal communication (communication other than reading and writing of setting information) using a single communication line (usually used communication line)
It can be performed.

Further, the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 and the device side read / write only communication line 92 are configured by a single communication line (1-Wire line) having a common power supply line and signal line, and therefore the cable side read / write only communication line. The number of communication lines added for the line 82 and the device-side read / write dedicated communication line 92 can be limited to one, or two, including the GND line.

Further, since the nonvolatile memory module M2 is mounted on the plug P1 attached to the end of the cable set C2 on the printer side (device side for initial setting), the length of the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 is made as much as possible. Can be shortened. Further, since the non-volatile memory module M may be mounted on the plug P (held on the communication line holding plate 81, see FIG. 4), it can be mounted (attached) easily.

Subsequently, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 14 and 15. In the first embodiment, the setting information is stored in the nonvolatile memory module M, and the setting information is read out to perform the initial setting of the device (printer 20). The power supply information related to the power supply request and the circuit information related to the circuit configuration are stored in the memory module M2, and the information is read out to determine whether or not the power supply and communication between the two devices are permitted. is there.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, among the components shown in FIG.
0 and a power supply system 201 using the cable set C5 connecting them (FIG. 14).
Reference) will be described as an example. Further, the description common to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the power supply system 201 according to the second embodiment. As described above, the power supply system 201 includes the keyboard 50, the printer 20, and the cable set C5. Of these, the keyboard 50 requires a power supply (first device), and the printer 20 supplies power. This corresponds to a device (second device) that performs the above.

The keyboard 50 includes a connection port 59, and the connection port 59 is a communication line 5 that is normally used.
3. Further, the normal use communication line 53 includes a power line for receiving power supply and a signal line for communicating with the printer 20.

The cable set C5 has a plug P201 on the printer side. The cable set C5 naturally has a plug on the keyboard side, but since it is not so related to the gist of the invention, the description and illustration are omitted here. The plug P201 includes a nonvolatile memory module M5, a cable side read / write dedicated communication line (cable side read only communication line) 282.
The cable side read / write dedicated communication line 282 and the cable side normal use communication line 283 both include a power line and a signal line. Note that the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 282 is 1-W as in the first embodiment.
The ire line (power line / signal line) can be used.

The configuration of the nonvolatile memory module M is the same as that shown in FIG. Also,
In the nonvolatile memory 122, power supply information related to the power supply request of the keyboard 50 and circuit information related to the circuit configuration of the keyboard 50 are written. In this embodiment, since the cable set C5 is connected to the keyboard 50 or sold as a cable set C5 dedicated to the keyboard, the power supply information and circuit information are written in the nonvolatile memory 122 in advance. It is. Note that as the power supply information, an interface type, current consumption, power consumption, arrangement of power supply lines included in the communication line, encryption key, 64-bit serial number unique to the nonvolatile memory module, and the like are written. Also, as the circuit information, communication speed, communication conditions including the presence / absence of parity and data length, encryption key, and 64-bit serial number unique to the nonvolatile memory module are written. Some or all of the information is encrypted so as not to be read illegally.

On the other hand, the printer 20 (interface board 21) includes a connection port 290 having a device-side read / write-only communication line (device-side read-only communication line) 292 and a device-side normal use communication line 293, as well as power information reading means 294, power supply A determination unit 295, a power supply control unit 296, a circuit information reading unit 297, a communication determination unit 298, and a communication control unit 299 are provided. The power information reading means 294, the power supply determination means 295, the power supply control means 296, the circuit information reading means 297, and the communication determination means 298.
The communication control means 299 functions as the main part of the network control circuit 110 of the interface board 21 shown in FIG.

When the 100BASE-T4 standard cable shown in FIG. 10 is used as the connection port 290, a 10-pin connector (pin numbers 0 and 9 are the device side read / write dedicated communication line 292).
, Pin numbers 1 to 8 are provided with the device side normal use communication line 293).

The power information reading unit 294 reads power information from the nonvolatile memory module M via the device side read / write dedicated communication line 292 and the cable side read / write only communication line 282.

The power supply determining unit 295 determines whether the printer 20 can supply power to the keyboard 50 based on the power information read by the power information reading unit 294.
Here, for example, when the output capability of the printer 20 (interface board 21) is insufficient for the power requirement (power consumption or current consumption) of the keyboard 50, or when the output voltage of the printer 20 (interface board 21) is the keyboard. If the power requirement of 50 is not met, it is determined that the power supply is impossible. Further, the power supply determination unit 295 is configured to read the power supply information by the power supply information reading unit 294 (for example, when the nonvolatile memory module M is not mounted or is mounted, the nonvolatile memory module M is not mounted). If the power supply is damaged), it is determined that the power cannot be supplied.

The power supply control unit 296 permits or prohibits the power supply according to the determination result of the power supply determination unit 295. When power supply is prohibited, an error notification is given to the user by printing the fact on the printed matter 24. When the printer main body or the interface board 21 is provided with an LED indicating an operation state, error notification may be performed by turning on or blinking the LED. Alternatively, an LED may be mounted on the plug P201, and the power supply control unit 296 may instruct driving of the LED via the device-side read / write dedicated communication line 292 and the cable-side read / write dedicated communication line 282. In addition, it is also possible to perform error notification with an electronic sound or the like.

The circuit information reading unit 297 reads circuit information from the non-volatile memory module M via the device side read / write dedicated communication line 292 and the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 282 in the same manner as the power source information reading unit 294 reads the power source information. .

Based on the circuit information read by the circuit information reading unit 297, the communication determination unit 298 performs communication with the keyboard 50 via the device side normal use communication line 293, the cable side normal use communication line 283, and the normal use communication line 59. Determine if it is possible. Here, for example, when the communication conditions including the communication speed of the printer 20 and the keyboard 50, the presence / absence of parity, and the data length do not match, or the memory specification of the nonvolatile memory 122 cannot be read by the circuit information reading unit 297. It is determined that communication is impossible. In addition, since it is determined for each signal line whether or not communication is possible, only some signal lines may be determined to be communicable. Further, the communication determination unit 298 is configured to read the circuit information by the circuit information reading unit 297 (for example, when the nonvolatile memory module M is not installed or when the nonvolatile memory module M is installed, If it is damaged, etc.), it is determined that communication is impossible.

The communication control unit 299 permits or prohibits communication according to the determination result of the communication determination unit 298. In addition, when the communication determination unit 298 determines that only communication via some signal lines is possible, communication via the signal lines is permitted. As in the case of the power supply control unit 296, when communication is prohibited and / or only communication via some signal lines is permitted, an error notification is given to the user.

Next, a control method of the power supply system 201 controlled mainly by the interface board 21 (network control circuit 110, see FIG. 6) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. When the cable set C5 is connected (S21), the interface board 21 reads the power information and circuit information from the nonvolatile memory module M by the power information reading means 294 and the circuit information reading means 297 (S22). continue,
Based on the power information read by the power information reading means 294, the power supply determining means 295 determines whether or not power can be supplied to the keyboard 50 (S23), and if it is determined that it is possible (S23: Yes), the power supply The power supply is permitted by the supply control means 296 (S24). If it is determined that power supply is not possible (S23: No), the power supply control means 296 reports an error and prohibits power supply (S25).

Further, based on the circuit information read by the circuit information reading means 297, the communication determining means 298 determines whether or not communication with the keyboard 50 is possible (S26), and if it is determined that it is possible (S26: Yes), Communication is permitted by the communication control means 299 (S27).
. If it is determined that communication is not possible (or only communication via some signal lines is possible)
(S26: No), error notification is performed by the communication control means 299, and communication is prohibited or only communication through some signal lines is permitted (S28). Note that it is preferable that the error notification in the case where communication is prohibited and the case where only communication through a part of signal lines is permitted are in different forms. Moreover, it is preferable that the error notifications in the case where power supply is prohibited and the case where communication is prohibited (when only communication through some signal lines is allowed) are also in different forms.

As described above, the power supply system 201 of the present embodiment can supply power to the device (keyboard 50) connected to the end of the cable set C5 by connecting the cable set C5 on which the nonvolatile memory module M is mounted. Since power is supplied after determining whether or not there is, it is possible to prevent problems such as breakage of the fuse. Further, since it is also determined whether or not communication is possible and communication is permitted based on the determination result, the connection state is not operated in an unstable state. In general, the POS keyboard 50 has a wide variety such as those equipped with an MSR and a display.
Although the power output capability of 0 and the power requirement of the keyboard 50 are not suitable, they are often connected. Accordingly, malfunction due to such inappropriate connection may be a problem, but such a problem can be solved by applying the present invention.

In the above example, when it is determined that the power supply is impossible, the power supply control means 296 prints out the error and prints out the error.
Preferably, instructions for the user are included. For example, when the connector of the interface board 21 does not conform to the power requirement of the keyboard 50, the connector (power supply voltage)
The contents of the instruction that should be changed may be printed. Interface board 2
When 1 has a plurality of connection ports, it may be instructed to prompt the connection to another connection port to which the power supply request matches. Furthermore, as shown in the flowchart above, even if power supply is impossible, if communication is possible, only communication may be permitted.
In this case, a separate power supply may be prepared and an instruction content for supplying power to the keyboard 50 may be printed.

In the above example, a case where the power supply PS2 is connected to the printer 20 and power is supplied from the printer 20 to the keyboard 50 via the cable set C5 is illustrated (see FIG. 1). The present invention can also be applied to the case where power is supplied to the keyboard 50 via the keyboard. In this case, cable set C, which is a communication cable
It is preferable to write information indicating that power supply to the connected device (keyboard 50) is not necessary in the nonvolatile memory module M mounted in the memory 5. In this case, the printer 20 (power supply determination unit 295) reads out the information and determines that power supply is impossible.

In the above example, power is supplied through the power line. However, when an interface that can supply power through the signal line is used, the power supply line may be omitted.

Moreover, although the case where it applied to the LAN cable which has a signal line was illustrated above, you may apply this invention to the power cable which has only a power supply line. In this case, when the power strip (power outlet) having a rated capacity of 1500 W is the second device on the power supply side, and the device connected to the power strip is the first device requiring power supply, the power strip Is
It can be determined that the power cable connected to the first device that requires a power capacity greater than its own rated capacity cannot be connected, and malfunctions can be prevented in advance. It is also possible to notify the user to that effect by error notification.

In the above example, the execution of the flowchart shown in FIG. 15 is started when the cable set C5 is connected. However, the execution may be started when the printer 20 is turned on.

Further, the network control circuit 110 in the interface board 21 causes the FIG.
However, the control may be performed on the printer main body side. That is, the connection port 290, power information reading means 294, power supply determination means 295, power supply control means 296, circuit information reading means 297, communication determination means 298 and communication control means 299 shown in the block diagram of FIG. The structure provided in the main body side may be sufficient.

In the above example, the power supply system 101 including the printer 20, the cable set C5, and the keyboard 50 is illustrated. However, even when power is supplied to the customer display 30 and the cash drawer 40 via the cable sets C3 and C4. The present invention is applicable.
The present invention can also be applied to the case where the nonvolatile memory module M in which the power consumption is written is mounted on the power supply PS and it is determined whether or not power can be supplied to the device.

In addition, in combination with the first embodiment, whether the setting information is stored in the nonvolatile memory 122 and the printer 20 can supply power or communicate the information stored in the nonvolatile memory 122. It may be configured so that it can be used to determine whether or not it can be used for its own initial setting. In addition, the first embodiment can be applied as appropriate, such as the cable standard, the arrangement of communication lines, and the mounting method of the nonvolatile memory module M and RFID.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the second device (printer 20) that supplies power supplies power information related to the power request of the first device (keyboard 50) that requires power supply to the nonvolatile memory module. If the power supply is read based on the power supply information and it is determined that the power supply is possible, that is, the power supply request on the power supply side matches the power output capability on the power supply side Therefore, appropriate power supply can be performed. As a result, it is possible to prevent overload, fuse destruction, malfunction, etc. due to inappropriate power supply.

In addition, when it is determined that power supply and communication are impossible, an error notification is made by printing out the fact and the user can know the reason why communication is not possible.

Next, a third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the first embodiment, the setting information is stored in the nonvolatile memory module M, and the setting information is read out to perform the initial setting of the device (printer 20). In addition to the setting information, a unique address (MAC address) of the cable set C2 is stored in the flexible memory module M, and the device connected to the cable set C2 assigns its own MAC address to the nonvolatile memory module M. The operation is performed by switching to the MAC address of the cable set C2 read from.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, the network system 301 using the hub 60 (network relay device), the printer 20, and the cable set C2 that connects them among the components shown in FIG. 1 will be described as an example. For the contents common to the first embodiment,
The description will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the network system 301 according to the third embodiment. As described above, the network system 301 includes the hub 60, the printer 20, and the cable set C2.

The hub 60 includes an address / filter setting means 64 and a connection port 69, and the connection port 69 has a normal use communication line 63. That is, 100 BAS shown in FIG.
When an E-T4 standard cable is used, an 8-pin connector is provided.

The address / filter setting means 64 sets so-called “MAC address / filtering” that ensures the security of the network system 301 by restricting communications other than devices having registered MAC addresses. Here, as shown in FIG. 17, the M of the devices (the personal computer POS 10 and the printer 20) connected to the hub 60.
The MAC address of the cable set C2 (hereinafter referred to as “cable address”) is registered instead of the AC address. Therefore, in the hub 60, the cable address “00: 11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 66” of the cable set C6 and the cable address “00:11:
It is assumed that two addresses “22: 33: 44: 55: 77” are registered in advance by the user.

The cable set C2 has a plug P1 on the printer side. Although the cable set C2 naturally has a plug on the hub side, the description and illustration are omitted here because it is not so much related to the gist of the invention. The plug P1 is a non-volatile memory module M2,
A cable side read / write dedicated communication line (cable side read only communication line) 82 and a cable side normal use communication line 83 are provided. As the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82, a 1-Wire line (power line / signal line) can be used as in the first embodiment.

Also, the configuration of the nonvolatile memory module M is the same as that shown in FIG. 9, and the cable address “00: 11: 22: 33: 44: 55: 77 "is written. As in the first embodiment, setting information read from a dedicated device or printer 20 can be written.

On the other hand, the printer 20 (interface board 21) includes a connection port 90 having a device-side read / write dedicated communication line (device-side read-only communication line) 92 and a device-side normal use communication line 93, as well as an address reading unit 394, an address storage unit. 395, an address switching unit 396, a setting information storage unit 97, and an initial setting unit 98. These address reading means 394, address storage means 395, address switching means 396,
The setting information storage means 97 and the initial setting means 98 are the network control circuit 1 shown in FIG.
10 functions as a main part.

When the 100BASE-T4 standard cable shown in FIG.
A 10-pin connector (pin numbers 0 and 9 are device-side read / write dedicated communication lines 92 and pin numbers 1 to 8 are device-side normal use communication lines 93).

The address reading unit 394 reads a cable address and setting information from the nonvolatile memory module M via the device side read / write dedicated communication line 92 and the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82.

The address storage unit 395 stores the cable address read from the nonvolatile memory module M by the address reading unit 394.

The address switching unit 396 switches its own MAC address to the cable address stored in the address storage unit 395. This switching (address storage means 395
Is stored each time the cable set C2 on which the nonvolatile memory module M2 is mounted is connected. Therefore, the apparent MAC address (MAC address that responds to the ARP request from the device connected by the cable set C2) is changed depending on the cable set C2 to be connected. However, the MAC address originally assigned to the printer 20 (interface board 21) is
If it is stored as it is and the cable address cannot be read from the connected cable set, it functions as its own MAC address.

The setting information storage unit 97 stores the setting information read from the nonvolatile memory module M by the address reading unit 394. The initial setting unit 98 performs initial setting based on the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit 97. The functions of the setting information storage unit 97 and the initial setting unit 98 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted.

Next, the control method of the network system 301 controlled mainly by the interface board 21 (network control circuit, see FIG. 6) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Also in this flowchart, description of processing relating to the initial setting is omitted.

When the cable set C2 is connected (S31), the interface board 21 transmits a MAC address (cable address) to the nonvolatile memory module M2 by communication via the device-side read / write dedicated communication line 92 and the cable-side read / write dedicated communication line 82. Whether or not exists is determined (S32).

When the MAC address exists (S32: Yes), the MAC address is read from the nonvolatile memory module M by the address reading means 394 (S33), and the MAC address
The address is stored in the address storage unit 395 (S34), and its own MAC address is switched to the MAC address stored in the address storage unit 395, that is, the cable address (S35). That is, while the cable set C2 is connected, its own MAC
It functions as a read cable address, not an address.

On the other hand, if the MAC address does not exist in the nonvolatile memory module M (S32: N
o) Operates with its own MAC address (S36). That is, a cable in which the nonvolatile memory module M is not mounted, or even if it is mounted in the nonvolatile memory 122
When the AC address is not written, it functions as its own MAC address.

Thus, the network system 301 of the present embodiment registers the MAC address assigned to the cable set C2 in the hub 60, and the printer 20 connected to the cable set C2 uses its own MAC address as the cable. Since the function is replaced with the cable address of the set C2, it is not necessary to re-register the MAC address of the new printer 20 in the hub 60 even when replacement is performed due to a failure of the printer 20 or the like. Therefore,
Even when a network is constructed using the hub 60 having the MAC address filtering function, the maintenance labor associated with the replacement of the printer 20 can be reduced.

In the above example, the MAC address is used as the cable address. However, if the hardware address is uniquely assigned to the cable set C2, the MA address is used.
Addresses other than the C address can also be used. Further, the 64-bit serial number of the nonvolatile memory module M2 may be used as the hardware address.

In addition, the hub 60 is exemplified as a device capable of setting MAC address filtering. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various network relay devices such as a router and an access point may be used. Furthermore, an apparatus incorporating a program (security firewall program) intended to communicate only with a specific device via a network connection may be used.

In the above example, the nonvolatile memory module M2 is mounted on the plug P. However, the nonvolatile memory module M2 may be mounted inside or outside the cable cover, or an RFID embedded in a cable name tag or label is used. You may make it do (refer FIG. 12).

Also, a general-purpose cable is used, and a non-volatile memory module M for each port is mounted on the hub 60. The printer 20 has a MAC address (port) written in the non-volatile memory module M. Address) may be read and used. In this case, the hub 60 registers the port address written in each nonvolatile memory module M in advance, communicates with the printer 20 and an address reading unit that reads the port address from the nonvolatile memory module M, and reads the port address. Address transmitting means for transmitting the port address to the printer 20. Further, the printer 20 stores an address acquisition unit that acquires the port address transmitted by the address transmission unit, an address storage unit that stores the acquired port address, and its own hardware address in the address storage unit. Address switching means for switching to a port address. The hub 60 is one-to-one at the start of communication with the printer 20 by the address transmission means.
Communication is performed by connection and a port address is transmitted (see FIG. 8 for the circuit configuration). However, when this configuration is adopted, the cable length of the cable side read / write dedicated communication line 82 becomes long, and therefore it is preferable to take measures to prevent signal degradation. According to this configuration, the printer 2
The network system 301 of this embodiment can be constructed with a simple configuration of only 0 and the hub 60.

In addition, the nonvolatile memory module M is not mounted on the cable set C2 or the hub 60, but as shown in FIG.
An RFID 140 tag with a unique MAC address is affixed, and the RFI
You may apply this invention to the communication system which reads a MAC address by communication with D140. According to this configuration, since a simple configuration of only the device reader / writer and the RFID tag is sufficient, the system can be constructed at low cost.

In the above description, the network system 301 including the hub 60, the printer 20, and the cable set C2 is illustrated. However, the cable C6 with the nonvolatile memory module M6 is used.
The present invention can also be applied to other devices connected to the hub 60, such as replacing the MAC address of the personal computer POS 10 with a cable address (see FIG. 1).

In the above example, the execution of the flowchart shown in FIG. 18 is started when the cable set C2 is connected. However, the execution may be started when the printer 20 is turned on or when initial setting of the device is started. good.

Further, the network control circuit 110 in the interface board 21 causes the network control circuit 110 shown in FIG.
However, the control may be performed on the printer main body side. That is, the connection port 90, address reading means 394, address storage means 395, address switching means 396, setting information storage means 9 shown in the block diagram of FIG.
7 and the initial setting means 98 may also be provided on the main body side.

Further, in combination with the above-described second embodiment, power source information and circuit information are stored in the nonvolatile memory 122, and based on these, it is determined whether the printer 20 can supply power or communicate. After performing, MAC address switching or initial setting may be performed.
In addition, the above-described embodiments can be applied as appropriate, such as cable standards, arrangement of communication lines, and mounting methods of the nonvolatile memory module M and RFID.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the device (printer 20) reads the cable address from the nonvolatile memory module M of the connected cable set C2, and the MAC address of the device (printer 20) is read. Even if the device is replaced, just connect the cable set C2 to the new device,
The hub 60 can be operated without worrying about the address filter. That is, the new device is connected to the connected cable set C2 regardless of its own MAC address.
Therefore, it is possible to save the trouble of registering or changing the hardware address of a new device while securing the security by the address filter of the hub 60.

Further, since the device does not erase the MAC address originally assigned, when the device is connected via a general-purpose cable not equipped with the nonvolatile memory module M, that is, the network system 301 of the present invention. Even when not connected to
It can function without any problem as its own hardware address.

Although the three embodiments have been described above, each part (each function) of the system and apparatus shown in each embodiment can be provided as a program. Further, the program can be provided by being stored in a recording medium (not shown). As a recording medium, CD-
ROM, flash ROM, memory card (compact flash (registered trademark), smart media, memory stick, etc.), compact disk, magneto-optical disk, digital versatile disk, flexible disk, hard disk, and the like can be used.

In addition, the system configuration, the device configuration, and the like can be appropriately changed without departing from the gist of the present invention, regardless of the examples of the network systems 101 and 301 or the power supply system 201 in the above embodiment.

10: personal computer POS, 20: printer, 21: interface board, 22: mounting slot, 23: outlet, 24: printed matter, 25: operation buttons, 26: antenna, 27: printer installation table, 30: customer display, 40: Cash drawer, 50: keyboard, 60: hub, 70: POS server, 82: cable side read / write dedicated communication line, 83: cable side normal use communication line, 90: connection port, 92: device side read / write dedicated communication line, 9
3: device side normal communication line, 94: setting information reading means, 95: setting information writing means, 96: copying means, 97: setting information storage means, 98: initial setting means, 101: network system (first embodiment) ), 110: network control circuit, 121: memory controller, 122: nonvolatile memory, 123: parasitic power supply circuit, 140: RFID, 201
: Power supply system, 301: Network system (third embodiment), C1 to C7: Cable set, M1 to M6: Non-volatile memory module, P1 to P201: Plug, PS
1 to PS4: Power supply.

Claims (8)

A non-volatile memory for storing setting information is mounted, and a cable side read / write dedicated communication line used to read / write the non-volatile memory and the setting information;
A cable set including a first-side device connected to one end and a second-side device connected to the other end and a cable-side normal use communication line used for communication between the first device and the second device connected to the other end;
A connection port to which one end of the cable set is connected; setting information reading means for reading the setting information from the nonvolatile memory of the connected cable set;
The connection port includes the cable side read / write dedicated communication line and the cable side normal use communication line, and the device side read / write dedicated communication line and the device side normal use communication line, respectively,
When a cable set that does not include the cable side read / write dedicated communication line is connected, the device side read / write dedicated communication line does not function, and only the device side normal use communication line functions. A network system comprising:
The device further includes setting information storage means for storing setting information in a nonvolatile manner;
Setting information writing means for writing the setting information stored in the setting information storage means to the nonvolatile memory;
When the cable set is connected, confirming the consistency of the setting information stored in the setting information storage means and the nonvolatile memory by communicating with the cable set, if the consistency is not taken, Cooperating with setting information reading means and setting information writing means, and in accordance with a predetermined rule, copying means for copying the setting information stored in the setting information storage means or the nonvolatile memory to the other A network system characterized by comprising. The network system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined rule includes a rule of copying from a side in which setting information is written to a side in which setting information is not written. The device further includes output means for outputting setting information stored in the setting information storage means and the nonvolatile memory;
An instruction acquisition means for acquiring a user instruction for the output;
The network system according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined law includes a law for copying information in accordance with an instruction from the instruction acquisition unit. The non-volatile memory is disposed in the vicinity of the plug on the first device side of the cable set, and the cable side read / write dedicated communication line is connected to the cable side normal use communication line in the plug on the first device side. 1 or more on each side
The network system according to claim 1. Wherein the nonvolatile memory is arranged in the communication line holding plate that is installed inside of the first device side of the plug
The network system according to claim 1, wherein: The cable set includes a cable-side plug having a number of pins corresponding to the number of the cable-side normal communication lines at one end and a device-side plug having a number of pins corresponding to the number obtained by adding at least two to the number of pins at the other end. Including a conversion adapter with
The device-side plug has a cable-side read / write dedicated communication line pin connected to a non-volatile memory arranged on a communication line holding plate inside the conversion adapter, on both sides of the cable-side normal use communication line pin, respectively. The network system according to claim 1, wherein at least one network is arranged . A control method according to claim 1, wherein the Netw network system,
The device is
When a cable set that does not include the cable side read / write dedicated communication line is connected, the device side read / write dedicated communication line does not function, only the device side normal use communication line functions,
If the cable set according to claim 1, wherein is connected, the steps to verify the integrity of the setting information stored in the setting information storage means and said nonvolatile memory by communicating with the cable set,
If the consistency can not be obtained, the setting information in cooperation with the reading means and said setting information writing means, according to a predetermined rule, the setting information stored in the setting information storage unit or the nonvolatile memory to the other And a step of copying the network system. The program for making a computer perform each step in the control method of the network system of Claim 7 .

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